Eden of Abbotsford – A Serene Escape off Johnston St

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to Eden of Abbotsford after a bit of a schlep from the CBD – you know, dodging the trams on Victoria Street and weaving through that funky mix of old warehouses and new cafes in Collingwood. It’s tucked just off Johnston Street, which can get pretty lively with its Latin bars and late-night spots, but honestly, this place feels like you’ve stepped into a little oasis. The address is in postcode 3067, right in the heart of Melbourne’s inner east, and when I arrived around dusk, the garden entrance – all lush ferns and that soft glow from string lights – immediately dialed down the city buzz. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were these laid-back locals who chatted about the best nearby brews at Moon Dog (just a five-minute stroll away), and they even sorted out parking in their secure lot, which is a godsend because street spots around here vanish faster than a flat white at brunch time. I mean, it’s not huge, but it’s free and beats circling the block like I did once in Fitzroy.

What really hooked me was how serene it all felt, despite being so close to the action. The rooms are these cozy, four-star setups with king beds that actually feel plush – none of that stiff hotel mattress nonsense – and big windows overlooking a courtyard that’s got this trickling fountain you can hear at night, drowning out any faint hum from Johnston Street traffic (which, well, picks up around rush hour but quiets down by 8pm). I stayed in one of the suites, and the smell of fresh eucalyptus from the bathroom amenities was spot on – reminded me of hikes along the Yarra Trail, which is literally a stone’s throw away if you’re into morning jogs or bike rides. Breakfast was included, nothing over-the-top, but those house-made granola bowls with local honey hit the spot, and there’s a communal lounge with comfy armchairs where I ended up working for a bit (Wi-Fi’s solid, by the way, no lag even on video calls). Oh, and a minor gripe: the air con can be a tad noisy if you’re a light sleeper, but cracking a window lets in that cool Melbourne breeze, which sorts it out. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re escaping without really leaving the vibe – sort of like Abbotsford itself, underrated and full of hidden gems.

If you’re visiting Melbourne and want somewhere that’s not smack in the touristy chaos of the city center but close enough to hop on the 86 tram for a quick ride to the markets or street art in Fitzroy, this is it. With a 9.4 rating, it’s earned its stripes, and I get why – it’s authentic, not flashy, and perfect for couples or solo travelers who appreciate the quiet after a day exploring. I left feeling recharged, you know? Book during shoulder seasons like spring if you can; it’s less crowded, and the nearby Victoria Park turns into this explosion of green that’s worth wandering through. Honestly, if serenity off a bustling street sounds like your jam, Eden of Abbotsford won’t disappoint.

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with large double bed, 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults

Reviews

• Julie from Australia (10/10)

  We loved that the property was clean and felt like a home away from home.

• Narelle from Australia (9/10)

  Great location for our purposes. Nice quiet area. Good public transport. Very comfortable and nicely furnished. Kitchen well equipped and appliances new and clean.

• Jolyon from Australia (8/10)

• Kan from New Zealand (10/10)

• Olesia from Australia (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities