Local Escapes

The Interlude Is The 19-Room Boutique Hotel Inside Coburg’s Former Pentridge Prison

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A former prison converted boutique hotel with couches.

In the latest chapter of its ongoing transformation in the former Pentridge prison from Olivine and North & Common is The Interlude, a new experiential retreat that’s ushering in a new era of accommodation on the storied grounds. 

The space was once home to some of Australia’s most notorious criminals including Ned Kelly and Ronald Ryan, the hotel certainly remains rooted in its 170-year legacy. Within each of its 19 suites, contemporary comfort harmoniously coexists with the enduring bluestone walls that witnessed decades of history. 

With a candle-lit relaxation pool, sommelier-led wine tastings, and riveting tales in the Reflection Garden among other thrilling experiences, The Interlude offers an immersive and interactive experience unlike any other boutique hotel in Australia. 

Each suite seamlessly blends the sorted stories of its past form including barred windows and heritage-listed bluestone walls while incorporating opulent touches from plush bathrobes to abstract artisanal artwork, as well as complimentary wine and Koko Black treats awaiting guests in each room. 

The bathroom may just be the highlight of the suite, boasting floor-to-ceiling dark marble walls with elegant gold trims that compliment the walls and elevate its lavishness. 

Going above and beyond is the hotel’s hidden treasure—a sleek private pool. Enveloped by bluestone walls and flickering candles the water is perfectly heated, with the infusion of essential oils that permeate the area. This can also be further enhanced with the option of poolside herbal teas, sparkling wine, and massages.

Adding to the experience of stay is the outdoor garden, a former open-aired exercise yard for prisoners that has been transformed into a large sprawling space with landscapes fauna, and furnishings centred around fire pits. 

Adjacent to the suite within the precinct is the wine bar, Olivine, which offers an enriching sommelier-led wine tasting guided by an in-house sommelier, guests can delve into the depths of Interlude’s extensive wine cellar—a novel-like collection, boasting 500 labels. 

There’s also the culinary attraction, North & Common, an elegant dining destination. While it may reside within a former inmate cafeteria, head chef Mark Glenn (Cumulus Inc.) has crafted a refined menu that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients from spanner crab risoni to flaky Rock flathead accompanied with cauliflower and silky lemon butter.

With enduring features that are a testament to Pentridge’s history in every suite, gripping stories of notorious inmates narrated in the Reflection Garden, and an elegant private pool oasis, The Interlude offers a deep retrospective of the past without the penitentiary penalty. Book it here.

Prefer a Dandenong Ranges oasis with its own billabong and waterfall? Head over here

Image credit: TFE Hotels (supplied) 

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