The Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Discover A Melbourne Icon

The Grand Hyatt Melbourne opened in 1986 and very quickly became the place to stay in Australia’s most creative and ever-transforming city, Melbourne.

As a Sydney-sider I would often escape to Melbourne for a cultural and culinary injection, and since it’s opening, the Grand Hyatt was where I chose to stay when I wanted to visit my favourite haunts by foot, day and evening.

For many years I loved its grand, art deco-inspired, gold facades and its floral arrangements. The luxury and the glamour did not change when it was newly renovated in 2011, it just became more sleek, elegant and modern.

Located prestigiously on Collins Street and what is known as the chic Parisian end of town, it is surrounded by the city’s heritage architecture, iconic skyscrapers, luxury fashion boutiques and fabulous cafes, bars and restaurants. It is also within walking distance of the theatre, sporting, business districts and of course Melbourne’s famous laneways.

The Grand Hyatt Hotel

The rooms and suites are luxurious and spacious with the higher floors having panoramic views of either the river or city. I recommend the corner suites where you get the best of both. I am particular about many things in a hotel and one of my quirkier ones are hallways. In city hotels I like them to be elegantly moody, quiet, long and preferably with perfectly placed artwork. The Grand Hyatt has nailed that ambience. It really sets my mood whether I am leaving or returning to my room.

Although I rarely use the impressive gym (I get my exercise walking for hours) I do use the pool and the spa to relax before dinner. Although this area has not been updated since the opening, I still find the ambience relaxing and well presented. Other facilities for the active guest include a rooftop tennis court, golf practice cages and a basketball half court.

The Grand Club Lounge

Whether I feel like a quick, light breakfast or just a cup of tea, while catching up on the news, I head to the Grand Club Lounge where the staff are always attentive and helpful. Guests in Club-category rooms and suites enjoy exclusive access to a lounge, with floor-to-ceiling city views, all-day refreshments and evening canapés and wine. If you are travelling on business, the executive lounge is a perfect setting for meetings or some time in front of your lap top. But, if you prefer a more substantial breakfast, head to The Collins Kitchen for an expansive buffet breakfast and delicious à la carte menu.

The Collins Kitchen

For me, The Grand Hyatt is the Queen of Melbourne’s luxury hotels and I always look forward to seeing the giant sculpted eagles (a nod to the area’s ancient indigenous creator deity Bunjil) as I enter for yet another wonderful stay.