Hotel Chadstone – Review

Melbourne’s – perhaps Australia’s – most famous shopping centre, Chadstone, now has a hotel at its doorstep. Part of Mgallery by Sofitel – a collection of high-end hotels by the Accor hospitality group – the 250-room check-in destination is only a travelator ride from the busy retail outlets of the shopping centre, yet feels a world away thanks to soaring arches and a high-ceilinged lobby that instil a sense of calm the minute your arrive. A soothing palate of soft pinks and rich golds further adds to the chill factor. And if that’s not enough, there’s an excellent spa on site, plus a large swimming pool on the 12th floor with floor-to-ceiling glass windows capturing city views.

The location

A two-minute walk will take you to Australia’s largest shopping centre, with more than 500 retail and food outlets, while a 30-minute drive (in good traffic, of course) will deposit you at the airport.

The rooms 

There are 227 rooms, 21 suites and two penthouses spread over 12 floors. Spotless white walls, dove-grey furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows maximise the sense of space even in the hotel’s smallest rooms (29 square metres), while splashes of either deep teal or delicate pink enliven the interiors. Convenience is key with USB-charging ports above the bedside tables, Chromecast-enabled TVs and intelligent lighting, which can be adjusted from various points around the room, including bedside tables. The bathrooms are large and feature free-standing bathtubs.

Food and drink

There are two restaurants on site. The rooftop outlet, Atlus Dining, is the spot for seasonal, regional bites – from fish ceviche tacos to locally sourced charcuterie and cheese board. Guests can also indulge in a decadent high tea experience on weekends, or just opt for a glass of bubbles at the adjoining bar with stellar views of Melbourne’s skyline and Port Phillip Bay. The ground-floor restaurant, Pastore, on the other hand, is all about Italy. Be transported to the Amalfi with David Blackmore’s wagyu lasagne, finishing off with a classic tiramisu. 

For business travellers 

Compact workstations in all rooms make remote working a cinch, plus there are nine spaces within the hotel – from small meeting rooms for intimate tête-à-têtes to open-air decks for bigger gatherings.

For wellness travellers 

Located on the hotel’s mezzanine level, Holism Day Spa is the place for traditional treatments, such as massages, wraps and facials, plus a few new-age therapies – like a session in the LED light lounge that promotes skin rejuvenation. There’s a gym on the same floor, plus an indoor pool on the rooftop.

The fab factor

Want to switch off? Make the most of the hotel’s Digital Detox Service, as part of which the staff will store your electronic devices – phones, tablets, etc al – for as long as you would like to stay disconnected.

SEE ALSO: 10 Fun Things to Do in Melbourne