3 BedroomTownhouse-free parking

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the 3 Bedroom Townhouse on Albion Street in Brunswick West – you know, that tucked-away spot in Melbourne’s inner north, just off Sydney Road where the trams rattle by every few minutes. It’s not smack in the middle of the CBD chaos, which honestly was a relief after dealing with the gridlock downtown. I mean, we drove in from the airport, and finding free parking right out front felt like winning the lottery – no hunting for spots or dealing with those pricey council lots that eat into your budget. The neighborhood’s got that real Melbourne vibe: quiet residential streets lined with those classic weatherboard houses, but you’re only a short walk from the buzz of Sydney Road with its kebab shops, vintage stores, and that amazing falafel place I can’t remember the name of (something with “A1” in it, I think). We checked in late afternoon during peak summer, and the host was super chill – just a quick key handover via a lockbox, no fuss, though I will say the instructions were a tad vague if you’re not tech-savvy. Still, stepping inside, the place smelled fresh, like someone had just aired it out with eucalyptus or whatever they use here, and the wooden floors had that warm, creaky feel underfoot that makes you feel at home right away.

What really sold me on this spot was how it felt like a proper townhouse, not some sterile hotel room – three bedrooms spread over two levels, with a full kitchen that actually had sharp knives and a decent coffee plunger (none of that instant rubbish). We were a group of four, and there was space to spread out without tripping over each other; the master bed was plush, like sinking into a cloud after a day exploring, though the pillows were a bit on the firm side if you’re picky about that. Downstairs, the living area opens up to a small courtyard – perfect for morning brews while listening to the magpies warbling, or even firing up the BBQ on those balmy evenings when the sun sets late. It’s rated 9.5 for a reason, you know? Super clean, with modern touches like fast Wi-Fi and a washer-dryer that saved us from lugging laundry around. Being in Brunswick West means you’re close to Moonee Ponds Creek for a jog or bike ride – we rented bikes from that shop on Melville Road and pedaled into Royal Park, which is stunning in spring with all the wildflowers blooming. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful at night, aside from the occasional tram ding in the distance, but earplugs fixed that for my light-sleeper friend. Oh, and if you’re into markets, the Coburg one is just a quick drive away on weekends – fresh produce and those killer doughnuts.

All in all, if you’re after a 4-star stay that feels more like crashing at a mate’s place than a hotel, this townhouse is a gem, especially for families or small groups hitting Melbourne without wanting to blow the budget on parking fees or tiny rooms. We stayed mid-week in autumn, when it’s quieter and you can snag better rates, and it made wandering into the city via the 19 tram a breeze – about 20 minutes to Federation Square. Sure, it’s not ultra-luxury with spa baths or room service, but that’s sort of the charm; it’s authentic, practical, and left us with that “we’ll be back” feeling. Honestly, in a city where everything’s go-go-go, this spot gives you breathing room – well worth it if you’re exploring the northside’s hidden gems.

Facilities