Last weekend, the hubby and I enjoyed another staycation in Melbourne at the newly opened Element Hotel in Richmond. A few years ago, we lived just around the corner so it was lovely to reacquaint ourselves with our former stomping ground and visit some of our old favourite spots, as well as some new ones. At only a short drive or cycle from the city, Element is the perfect location to explore Melbourne and all the action nearby.
Hotel Snapshot
Element is the first Element brand hotel to open in Australia. It’s perfect hotel for both short and long term stays and for active travellers looking to maintain their routines while on the road in Melbourne. Some of the rooms are also pet friendly, so you don’t have to leave your pooch at home. Each of the hotel’s 168 rooms are spacious and light filled to take advantage of the beautiful views around Melbourne.
Location
Located within a stone’s throw to the banks of the Yarra River, the Element Hotel is nestled in the heart of Botanicca Business Park in Richmond. It’s conveniently positioned to take advantage of the Yarra Creek trail which is only a short cycle to the Melbourne CBD. There are also a great range of bars and restaurants in Richmond’s bustling Swan Street right on your doorstep and Bridge Street for all your retail therapy. Nearby sights include the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Royal Botanical Gardens and Victoria Arts Centre.
Space & Facilities
The building has been beautifully designed by local architects and interior designers Rothelowman to take advantage of natural light and offers bird’s eye views over Melbourne and its surrounds. The unique curved and reflective facade blends in perfectly with its surrounding greenery. Element is an ideal place to connect, meet and unwind. Upon entering it has a homely warmth, with its neutral tones, soft textures and impeccable customer service. The entrance lobby is a beautifully designed meeting hub – a perfect spot for an informal business meeting or curling up with a book.
All of the hotel rooms (including five deluxe balcony king rooms) are spacious and light filled and come equipped with plush bedding, furniture and artwork. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. Sustainability is also key at Element with water-efficient tap ware, energy-efficient appliances and an extensive recycling management program utilised at the hotel
A 24/7 Motion Fitness centre is a highlight, equipped with all the latest state of the art facilities and Technogym equipment (don’t miss the igloo on the outside equipped with weights and yoga mats). There is also yoga classes available and a complimentary Bikes-to-Borrow program that allows guests to go for a cycle on many of the bike paths available nearby. Venture to to the top floor and you’ll find the stunning skyline rooms (four modern meeting spaces), the perfect spot for a special occasion or a business conference. The outdoor terrace has the most incredible views and is the perfect spot to watch the sun sink into the horizon at the end of the night.
Additional hotel amenities include free WiFi, concierge services and and laundry facilities. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
The Room
Food & Wine
Buffet, continental or full American breakfast is available on weekdays between 6:30 AM and 9:30 AM and on weekends between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM.The on site Mint Lane Restaurant and Bar serves up fresh Australian cuisine in modern and stylish surrounds. Hotel guests can start the day with a RISE breakfast – offering health-focused options like a chef-made omelette, a fresh fruit and yoghurt station and locally-supplied coffee and tea. In the evening Mint Lane transforms to a buzzing bar and dining atmosphere often with live music. Guests can enjoy the brand’s signature evening Relax reception four days a week, which offers complimentary local beers and wines and small bites.
Or you can dine in your very own igloo outside!
What to explore during your stay?
- Hire a complimentary bike and go for a ride into the CBD along the Yarra River
- Eat to your heart’s content in some of Richmond’s best restaurants
- Visit Serotonin for brunch and make your heart (and belly!) happy
- Watch a footy match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Shop up a storm in Bridge Road
- Go for a pub crawl on bustling Swan Street
- Visit Burnley Park
- Have a picnic at the Royal Melbourne Botanical Gardens
- Stroll down the beautiful Southbank and Crown Promenade in the evening
- Go back in time at the Shrine of Remembrance
- Get cultured at the National Gallery of Victoria
- Explore the unique collection and the incredible Reading Room at the State Library of Victoria
- Visit the Melbourne Zoo and the Melbourne Aquarium
- Go shopping in Melbourne’s CBD and the Emporium
Element Hotel Richmond
A 588 Swan St, Richmond VIC 3121
T (03) 9112 8888
W marriott.com.au/hotels/travel/melel-element-melbourne-richmond/
I was kindly hosted during my stay. All opinions are honest and my own.
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