The Westin Melbourne

When you book a hotel you’re probably not thinking about the bed. Sure, you expect it to be clean, comfortable and maybe come with a mint on the pillow but the bed is usually an afterthought to the hotel’s other qualities like the location, the amenities and the all important star rating.

At the Westin, however, the beds take pride of place. How these magnificent berths manage to tread the line between firm and fluffy is beyond us. Sleeping at the Westin is about as close as you can get to sleeping on a cloud – you’ll sink into the bedding but still feel supported. If you’ve got kids, booking your partner in for a night is a sure fire way they’ll get their full forty winks (and some good karma for yourself).

The Westin has plenty to offer during waking hours as well though. The hotel’s secluded entrance (enter off Collins Street or Flinders Lane) makes it oh-so easy to believe you’re far from the bustling city. Inside you’re met with an interior that could be described as the Great Gatsby meets Blade Runner – the sweeping staircase, chandeliers and winged armchairs might be grand but there is a definite hint of futurism to them.

After checking into your room (and plonking down on that snooze-inducing bed) head to Allegro restaurant on level one. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner the restaurant’s modern Australian menu evolves seasonally throughout the year though you can always find something tasty to eat before a show at the Regent Theatre (which is right next door). Work off your meal at the hotel’s 24-hour gym or with a dip in their slick 20-metre lap pool before hitting the town to check out Melbourne’s best fashion, food and culture offerings all within walking distance from the hotel.

Time Out tip: if exercise is non-negotiable during your stay then book a Westin workout room so you can keep fit with exercise equipment in the privacy of your own room.