As the first major development in Bourk Street Mall in 50 years, the new Melbourne Walk precinct has been a much-hyped and hugely anticipated project. And now it's finally open – complete with the sparkly jewels in its crown: two new hotels that form IHG’s very first dual-branded hotel property in Australia.
Tucked away above the retail sector are the Holiday Inn Melbourne Bourke Street Mall and Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins. I'm checking out the latter, which is the design-led trendy younger sibling of the two that is chock-full of character and charming nods to its heritage.
Why stay at Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street?
It's instantly obvious there's a lot to love here: the spiral staircase is a stunning architectural centrepiece, every person I encounter is a delight, the signature cocktails are spot-on and the rooms are spacious and well-appointed. But what makes this hotel feel special, and quintessentially Melbourne, is the seamless blending of the site's storied history with the swish, modern features.
The property's signature shade of Mondrian blue is front and centre as soon as you enter, and it extends throughout the hotel – from the painted column in reception to the hallways and in-room cabinetry. And while it's a nice example of brand awareness, it doubles as a homage to Melbourne's blue street signs. There are also multiple tributes to E.W. Cole, who was the owner of Cole's Book Arcade – once regarded as the biggest bookstore in the world. It opened in 1875 and was located within the original precinct, but it was perhaps most infamous for housing monkeys (yes, really). Keep an eye out for lots of monkey motifs and room numbers that have been engraved with the E.W. Cole quote: "The world is a book. Those who do not travel read only one page."
What are the rooms like at Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street?
Ever wondered what it would be like to wake up overlooking Bourke Street Mall? Now's your chance. There are 179 rooms and I'm staying in a Premium Suite, which faces Myer and boasts cool views over the busy shopping strip – but from up on level six, you feel a world away from the hustle and bustle (the windows must be double glazed, because all I could hear was a few faint dings from the trams as they went past). It's got everything you could need for a comfortable stay: a king-size bed, cosy lounge, free WiFi with Chromecast-enabled TVs, a mini bar (stocked with locally made bevs), a spacious bathroom with wardrobe area (random, but I really liked the padded coat hangers) and fluffy robes with slippers.
But it's the quirky design elements that elevate this room. A royal blue gem-like stool in the bathroom is a nod to one of historic the site's former tenants, a jeweller; the terrazzo side tables are made using recycled Skyy Vodka bottles; and the grid-like art on the wall is reminiscent of Melbourne's laneways. There's personality galore, which is something you don't often find in CBD hotels.
What is the service like at Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street?
Very friendly – from the team on reception to the restaurant staff, everyone is super welcoming and open to any feedback on the hotel. Special shoutout to the lovely young waiter who recommended the Mirka Mora cocktail (a deliciously tart combo of Miss Yoko gin, elderflower liquer, grapefruit juice, lime juice and wonderfoam) when I was umming and ahhing over what to drink.
Check-in is from 3pm, while check-out is at the very luxurious time of 11am – sleep-ins here are encouraged.
What are the restaurants and bars like at Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street?
There's no chance of going hungry during a stay here thanks to the on-site restaurant, Fern Bar and Dining. Located on level two, it's a celebration of modern Melbourne cuisine, with the menu showcasing a variety of international flavours via dishes like chicken and ginger dumplings or tuna carpaccio. My top pick was the dry-aged Aylesbury breast served with duck leg croquettes, honey, orange and star anise – it was cooked to absolutely juicy perfection.
And be sure to find time to grab a drink at the bar, so you can sit and admire the spiral staircase and spectacular three-storey mural. This colourful work by local artist Lisa King, titled 'Cabinet of Curiosities', was commissioned exclusively for the hotel and depicts symbolic Melbourne items – think a tennis ball to represent the Australian Open and fruit for the Queen Victoria Market.
For breakfast, there's a generous buffet featuring pastries (the almond croissants are a must-try), fresh fruit, cold cuts of meat and cereals. You can order from the à la carte menu, too – I tried the chilli scrambled eggs which arrived in a toasted brioche bun with whipped feta, basil and crispy shallots. The portion size is generous and if you like to start the day with a bit of heat the chilli packs quite a punch.
What facilities does Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street have?
This hotel has everything you could need for an enjoyable stay – we're talking a well-equipped gym with treadmills, stationary bikes and weights (it's open 24/7); the aforementioned Fern Bar and Dining; a private 12-person space for meetings or intimate dinners; and a sun-soaked outdoor courtyard. This elevated oasis is surrounded by towering cathedral windows and makes for a gorgeous spot to grab a drink, read a book or do some work.
What's the area like around Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street?
While the official address may say Little Collins Street, the site is only a stone's throw from Bourke Street in the very heart of the city's shopping precinct – so keen fashionistas, you've been warned! Myer, David Jones and Emporium are all within easy walking distance, and the huge new Mecca flagship store is right next door. Plus, the Melbourne Walk precinct is home to the biggest JD Sports store in the southern hemisphere and a Pop Mart where you can stock up on Labubus (just be prepared to line up).
Being this centrally located means you're also close to plenty of excellent bars and restaurants, along with Melbourne's major theatres.
Why should you book a stay at Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins Street?
For an affordable staycation with boutique rooms that don't feel like a cookie-cutter copy of every other CBD accommodation, Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins is for you. While the location is a huge drawcard, it's the other touches – warm staff, stunning architectural features and a quality restaurant – that make it memorable and appealing to locals and tourists alike.
The key details
Address: Building 2, 288 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000.
Price per night: Starting from $269 per night.
Closest transport link: Flinders Street Station is a seven-minute walk from the hotel, while the city's free tram line is a two-minute walk away.
Book now: Click here.
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