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Dorsett Melbourne is right near the famous Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, so that’s bound to take trumps in the attention stakes – but if, like most of us, your budget won’t stretch to a stay at The Ritz, The Dorsett is a very stylish and comfortable affordable option. In fact, Dorsett Melbourne was designed by the same team behind The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne – local architecture practice Cottee Parker. So it’s without doubt the best affordable alternative.
The Dorsett ticks all the boxes of a stylish and comfortable city escape, with sleek guest rooms but also resort-style facilities at affordable rates. As you enter the lobby, it feels like a warm and welcoming boutique property, so it’s surprising to learn that the hotel is big enough to house a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and one of the biggest, most well-equipped gyms I’ve seen in a boutique hotel for a long time.
Already interested? Find out more about rooms and rates over here.
What are the rooms like at Dorsett Melbourne?
Dorsett Melbourne has a surprising 316 guest rooms and suites, which are decked out in an elegant style that feels very Melbourne. The colour palette is a mix of dark and light greys, with pops of white, tan leather and high-quality gold-coloured finishings.
The rooms are spacious, and even the smaller rooms have been designed with practical storage and hanging solutions that make the spaces feel very liveable, even for longer stays.
I stayed in an Executive King Balcony room, which was unexpectedly large at 29sqm. You don’t just enter and find yourself in the bedroom – there’s an entry space, and then also a balcony with seating. Plus a large, flat-screen TV with Chromecast, a rain shower and coffee machine.
Dorsett Melbourne is also family-friendly and pet-friendly. Pet-friendly rooms come with a private furnished balcony, and as part of their ‘Holidays for Hounds’ package, your room will also include a Snooza Snuggler Orthopaedic foam bed (for them!), a Pottery Barn water and dog bowl, and a gourmet pet menu.
To see room options, take a look over here.
What facilities does Dorsett Melbourne have?
Dorsett Melbourne takes its wellness offerings – which are spread across two floors of the hotel – seriously. At the heart of it all is an indoor heated pool, which feels like a welcome little oasis in the city. There’s also a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. And a really big, fully equipped gym that looks down over the pool.
Executive Rooms and Suites come with access to the Club Lounge – a private space where you can relax, catch up on work, take a breather between adventures and enjoy free drinks and snacks each day from 5pm to 6.30pm.
Where to eat and drink near Dorsett Melbourne
The hotel is home to Jin Bar and Port Bistro. Jin Bar on the lobby level has a gold-clad bar that pays tribute to Victoria’s gold rush. They serve up a menu inspired by Executive Chef Paolo Andrada's hometown in the Philippines. Combining tradition with Victorian local produce, the bar also heroes local pours: wine from Gippsland, spirits from the Yarra Valley and craft beer from Collingwood.
Then there’s Port Bistro, which is where you’ll get your buffet breakfast (kids under 5 eat free). And their in-room dining menu is available 24/7, with a reduced menu from 9.30pm to 6am.
Executive Rooms and Suites come with access to the Club Lounge, where you can enjoy free drinks and hearty snacks each day from 5pm to 6.30pm.
In terms of nearby dining options, big cafe Higher Ground is a popular option.
What’s the area like around Dorsett Melbourne?
Dorsett Melbourne is tucked into West Side Place in Melbourne’s CBD.
Marvel Stadium is nearby, making this a particularly convenient choice if you’re heading to Melbourne for a major event. You’re also right near Southern Cross Station, Coles Spencer Street, and not far from Queen Victoria Market or Melbourne Central shopping mall.
Interested in finding out more about the hotel or booking? Head over here.
Address: 615 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Vic 3000
Book now: Click here
Note: I was hosted by Dorsett Melbourne, but our editorial recommendations are always honest. You can find out more about our review process here.
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