Novotel | South Wharf

THE VERDICT

Need to break free from work for a couple of days? We’ve been there. The Novotel Melbourne South Wharf may just be the solution, in prime position for a cheeky Melbourne staycay.

Located smack bang along the bustling South Wharf promenade, you're not gonna miss it. It's the giant, 26-storey gold behemoth towering towards the clouds. The build cost a whopping $150m, but one night here and it's easy to see the cash was well spent. 

The cutting edge architectural design (courtesy of Woods Bagot, NH Architecture Fender Katsalidis) certainly stands out from the surrounding DFO and South Wharf precinct. Jeff's Shed has been South Wharf's architectural 'triumph' for way too long. Valet parking (available for 50 bucks) amps up that VIP treatment as well. And you'll find the entrance about 10m from all the DFO bargains. Expect this one to be very popular with weekend travellers looking to splurge. 

Rooms are sophisticated but not pretentious, with super cushy beds you’ll never want to leave, and floor to ceiling windows providing awesome views out over the city. When you eventually decide to rise from your slumber, South Melbourne Markets are only a 15-minute stroll away, or you can head down to the waterfront to grab a bite at Melbourne Cellar Door or Boatbuilder's Yard. 

Still too far? You don’t even need to leave the hotel to get good food. Novotel has Mr Carpono Bar & Dining up on Lvl 6, offering up a variety of solid Italian inspired dishes. 

South Wharf often doesn't get the cred it deserves. Where else can you walk to DFO, Etihad Stadium, Southbank, Docklands, South Melbourne, Crown and The Botanic Gardens? Welcome to town, Novotel.

Image credit: Novotel 

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