Crowne Plaza Melbourne – Hotel Review

An absolute riverfront location, rooftop pool, spacious suites and sweeping CBD views set this still-stalwart CBD stay apart. Read on for the full review. 

From its perch right on the edge of the Yarra River, the crescent-moon-shaped hotel casts a sweeping eye over the city and, with large picture windows framing it all, you’ll rarely miss a peep. Want a closer look? No corner of the bustling CBD is too far from reach.

Where is Crowne Plaza Melbourne? 

Near the intersection of Spencer and Flinders Street close to the edge of the Yarra, Crowne Plaza Melbourne is located in the south-west of the CBD, across the river from the Southbank precinct.

What’s near Crowne Plaza Melbourne?

A quick wander brings you to the Flinders Street tram line, running you to the famous Flinders Lane knot of renowned restaurants and bars in 10 minutes. The legendary National Gallery of Victoria is a pleasant 20-minute stroll astride the river, with the Royal Botanic Gardens just beyond it. The Crown Melbourne (and all its glittering temptations) is a swift four-minute walk just across the water.

Room types 

The calmly lit rooms, coloured in toffee and cream, are a haven for the sleep deprived, with comfy king-size beds and black-out curtains. For the night owls, in-room coffee machines (or soothing T2 teas) will do the trick, whatever the desired outcome. In suites, expect considerably more space – and luxury – with deep soaking tubs, artisan chocolate, Appelles amenities and a separate living and dining space for lounging.

Restaurants and bars 

A bar, a cafe and a restaurant form the fun little trio of F&B spots at Crowne Plaza Melbourne. Pow Wow, a bright and fresh space serving reliable Rosso coffee, ham-and-cheese-stuffed croissants and an all-day menu, isn’t the only place to grab brekkie: Yugo, the refined restaurant with a Pan-Asian lean, also has a breakfast buffet. The happy, candy-coloured Dive Bar sports a menu of little plates but is mostly a drinking spot – the experimental cocktail menu, pink pool tables, jukebox and neon give it away.  

Travel for work

Formal and informal meeting spaces are abundant here. The largest can accommodate up to 700 people in a canapés-and-conference situation and the hotel has staff dedicated to making sure any manner of meetings goes smoothly, from organising AV equipment to assisting with catering.

Gym and pool

The open-air pool may be small but it is mighty, especially in a chilly city that doesn’t often do a rooftop swimming affair. It’s heated (of course), with a smattering of loungers and cabanas and the level down from the surprisingly large fitness centre, located on level four.

Sustainability

Sustainable choices are peppered throughout Crowne Plaza Melbourne, most notably the energy-efficient escalators that cease movement when not in use, replacement of all 30,000 lights with LED alternatives and the installation of tapware that meets water-efficiency labelling standards.  

Accessibility   

Accessible rooms (both inward and outward facing) are available, with wheelchair-friendly bathrooms. 

What you need to know

Those swoon-worthy fluffy hotel robes are available for guests, but only on request.

SEE ALSO: The Best Hotels in Melbourne’s CBD