Skyline Sanctuary: The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne – Hotel Review

11 hours ago

This urban oasis has a sky high reputation

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The Ritz-Carlton brings sky-high calm to Melbourne, with thoughtful design, knockout views, and a confident sense of space above the city.

Review: The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne

STAY

Occupying the top 17 floors of a landmark 80-storey tower, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne is currently Australia’s tallest hotel. From the moment you ascend to the Sky Lobby on level 80, the city unfolds in a sweep beneath you from Port Phillip Bay and the Yarra to the Dandenong Ranges in the distance.

Outfitted by BAR Studio, the 257 rooms and suites are designed with a restrained palette of muted tones, soft textures, with influences from its indigenous story, Victorian-era gold rush, European heritage, and fabled laneway life. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ever-changing light, while bathrooms are spacious, featuring double vanities, deep soaking tubs, and Diptyque amenities. Thoughtful touches include a walk-in wardrobe with an illuminated dressing area and a minibar stocked with local treats from the likes of the Melbourne Gin company and StrangeLove Lo-Cal Sodas.

DO

Located in the West Side Place precinct, the hotel is a short walk from Southern Cross Station, providing easy access to the rest of Melbourne and beyond. Nearby attractions include Marvel Stadium, the Docklands, and the Yarra River. The hotel’s concierge can arrange bespoke experiences, from private gallery tours to day trips to the Yarra Valley wine region.

On-site, the wellness facilities are exceptional. The spa offers treatments that incorporate native Australian botanicals, while the fitness centre is equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment. But it’s the indoor infinity pool on level 64 that takes centre stage, with its loungers that provide a serene space to unwind, with panoramic views of the city.

EAT

Dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne is a celebration of local produce and innovative design. Atria, the hotel’s signature restaurant on level 80, offers modern Australian cuisine in a space that mirrors the city’s sophistication. The menu changes seasonally, highlighting the best of Victoria’s farms and fisheries with dishes such as roasted pork jowls in a pork and chicken fat, topped with shavings of calamari.

Cameo, the cocktail bar adjacent to Atria, is an intimate space with a curated list of Australian spirits and wines while the Lobby Lounge serves afternoon tea and light bites, perfect for a casual meeting or a relaxed evening.

For guests with Club Lounge access, the experience is elevated further. Located on level 79, the lounge offers five daily culinary presentations, from breakfast to evening canapés, all accompanied by sweeping city views.

THE FINAL WORD

High above the CBD, this is a hotel that sees the city clearly – not just from a height, but with intention, calm, and a kind of confidence that doesn’t chase attention.