Housed in an impressive horseshoe-shaped glass-and-steel tower in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, the W opened in 2021 and remains one of the best big chain hotels in town. It offers the party-friendly energy and flamboyant contemporary style the youthful Marriott Bonvoy brand is known for.
The rooms
The bold design at W Melbourne might not be subtle, but it delivers on the comfort front. ‘Cozy’ rooms are the most affordable option, and the offerings grow in size and price with each bubbly category: Wonderful, Fabulous, Spectacular, Fantastic and Marvellous rooms. Graphic checked carpet and brightly hued murals loom at every turn, and suggestive slogans are splashed on mirrors and in wardrobes. ‘Bad decisions make good stories,’ says one. ‘There’s always a wild side to an innocent face,’ shouts another. These rooms are built for a good time, with all the trimmings – from plush king beds to luxe bathrooms – you would expect from the global luxury brand.
Food & drink
The top-rated Japanese omakase restaurant Warabi sits at the top end, while all-day diner Lollo offers an extensive breakfast buffet each morning. There’s a sleek basement bar, Curious, which is like drinking inside an Escher drawing thanks to its geometric timber walls. And it’s worth venturing further east down Flinders Lane to explore Melbourne‘s hottest dining precinct.
The service
Young, upbeat and occasionally green. You may find yourself asked to sign a waiver promising not to host a party in your suite, tempting though it may be. The minibars in each room are far from small, with a full cocktail setup at equally top-end prices. The 24-hour ‘Fit’ gym and ‘Wet’ pool are a drawcard, with a bar and DJ that could turn your workout into a night out.
Ideal for: A wild weekend with your most fabulous friends
Why we love it:
- The location. W Melbourne is situated at the western end of Flinders Lane, close to the Yarra River.
- The sleek amenities. The gym, pool, bar and restaurants are all very snazzy.
- The design. Cheeky and irreverent, it sets the mood for a fun weekend.
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