The Grand Hyatt feels a bit Midas touched. From the shiny, golden reception hall to the warm, amber hues of the rooms, the Hyatt will likely be a 24-karat experience. The Hyatt name brings certain expectations – like that there will be complimentary, fluffy white robes (there are). But despite the little extravagances a night at the Grand Hyatt doesn’t cost as much as you’d think, and it is well worth the price if you’re looking to treat yourself (or someone else).
Take our advice and request a room on the 20th floor or higher. If you’re lucky the view from your room will include a hefty list of Melbourne’s major landmarks, like the Yarra River, the Arts Centre, Rod Laver Arena, Flinders Street Station and the Eureka Tower. It’s a cinch to visit those landmarks in person too, with the Hyatt located within walking distance to trains and trams.
The rooms themselves feel very private. The walls are thick and there are no awkward noises audible from your neighbours – or from you to them. The king-sized beds are soft but not the oversoft bedding black holes that some hotels are guilty of, and the thick curtains means your sleep will not be disturbed by the peeping sun. If you’re tall do yourself a favour and book yourself a spa room; you can relax in a bath you will actually fit in.
If you’re too busy to leave your room there’s a decent room service menu, but given the Hyatt’s location we suggest venturing out. In the the morning opt for the Hyatt’s buffet breakfast and you won’t regret it. There’s not an urn of hot coffee or tea in sight, with staff bringing your barista-made drink straight to your table while you have the hard task of deciding what to eat from the buffet.
Time Out tip: if you're celebrating a special event – be that a birthday, anniversary or (gasp) an engagement – the Grand Hyatt can happily arrange for amenities such as a bottle of wine, flowers or chocolates to placed in the room prior to your arrival.
