Park Hyatt Melbourne
Surrounded by Victorian architecture and close to the central shopping district, the Park Hyatt Melbourne enjoys a wonderful location. Guests are greeted by views of St. Patrick's Cathedral, the Fitzroy Gardens and Cook's Cottage.
The interior is luxurious: bedrooms are appointed with marble en suites, some with spa bath tubs, and the décor is inspired by art deco design. All rooms have internet access, hairdryer and a coffee maker, and cribs are available for families with young children. Deluxe rooms allow access to a private lounge which serves evening cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.
The ambience of luxurious relaxation extends to the public areas of the hotel. Curl up next to the fireplace in the Cuba Lounge with a cocktail or fine wine, before moving upstairs to dine in the radii restaurant and bar. The Tea Lounge, with garden views, serves refreshments all day, including lunches, afternoon teas with delicious pastries and scones, and a selection of wines and coffees.
The hotel facilities are completed by a pool, spa, sauna, gym and sun deck. Melbourne itself has many offerings for visitors: there are markets, shops, museums and galleries aplenty. The oldest building in Australia, Cook's Cottage, sits just opposite the hotel, and the Eureka tower - the highest viewing platform in the Southern hemisphere - is not far. A trip to Melbourne wouldn't be complete without a visit to the cricket ground, and the Park Hyatt concierge can arrange excursions for guests.
Jackalope
Daringly different, the design focused Jackalope is a luxurious contemporary property in the heart of the lush Mornington Peninsula wine region.
Split into three different categories the 45 rooms at the hotel are all incredibly stylish, with minimalist interiors and crisp black, white and grey colour schemes. All rooms have floor to ceiling windows which lead out onto private terraces overlooking the verdant vineyards surrounding the property. For added indulgence, opt for a Lair Suite and benefit from a larger terrace, private lounge area with fireplace, personal wine cellar and in-room cocktail bar.
The central areas of the property are where the architecture and design focus is really brought to life. As you enter a huge sculpture welcomes you to the property and inside various art installations are complimented by sleek, stylish décor including a feature chandelier ceiling. There are two restaurants; Doot Doot Doot, which offers five course tasting menus inspired by the local produce of the winelands, and Rare Hare, the more relaxed daytime dining space whose wood fired oven takes centre stage. For drinks, head to Flaggerdoot for cocktails as quirky as the décor.
Since it's set on a private 11 acre vineyard (and surrounded by over 50 more) a stay at Jackalope is really all about the wine. Sip on pinot noir and cabernet, or chardonnay and sauvignon, and let the experts educate your palates during a tasting experience, which should then be followed by some of the delicious food on offer. In between wining and dining, take a dip in the large pool and enjoy the stunning views, or relax with a luxurious massage in the comfort of your own room.
Why We Love It
A world away from the typical luxury winery, Jackalope is as chic and stylish as it gets.
The Lyall
A contemporary hotel in the fashionable South Yarra district of Melbourne.
The Lyall has 40 apartment-style rooms and several unusual features including a mini art gallery on each floor featuring the original art of local French artist Thierry B. The bedrooms are styled in a contemporary oriental design, and the ensuite bathrooms all have ingenious touches such as underfloor heating and mist free mirrors.
The menu at Bistro Lyall is designed to emulate the multicultural nature of the city and there is also an al fresco terrace and a Champagne bar. The Lyall Spa serves up pampering treatments and has a gym, as well as a large DVD and book library.
Why We Love It
The Lyall has their own push bikes so you can explore the stylish district of Yarra.