Mantra on Jolimont Melbourne

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the Mantra on Jolimont after a quick tram ride from Flinders Street Station – honestly, if you’re coming from the CBD, it’s a breeze, especially since Jolimont Road is right there hugging the edge of the sports precinct. The hotel sits at 133 Jolimont Road, smack in the middle of East Melbourne, and let me tell you, that location is a game-changer if you’re into events at the MCG or Rod Laver Arena. I mean, I walked over to a cricket match in like five minutes flat, dodging the crowds spilling out from the gates – it’s that close. The building itself has this understated vibe, not flashy like some of the high-rises downtown, but solid and welcoming, with a lobby that smells faintly of fresh coffee from the little cafe downstairs. Check-in was smooth, even though I arrived during peak hour when everyone’s rushing back from the city; the staff were chatty Aussies who tossed in tips about avoiding the traffic on Wellington Parade during rush hour. Oh, and parking – if you’re driving, snag a spot in their underground lot early, because street parking around here gets snatched up fast, especially on game days.

What really won me over were the rooms – I stayed in one of their studio apartments, which felt more like a cozy city pad than a generic hotel setup. You’ve got a kitchenette with a microwave and fridge (perfect for whipping up brekkie from the nearby Coles on Bridge Road), and the bed was comfy enough that I slept through the distant hum of trams on Brunswick Street. The outdoor pool is a nice touch, especially in summer when Melbourne’s heat waves hit; I spent an afternoon lounging there, listening to the birds in the nearby Fitzroy Gardens – it’s surprisingly peaceful for being so central. Sure, the decor’s a bit dated in spots, like the carpet showing some wear, but it’s clean and functional, and the free Wi-Fi actually held up for streaming without those annoying lags. You know what, though? If you’re a light sleeper, book a room facing away from Jolimont Road – there’s occasional noise from passing trains or event crowds, but nothing earplugs couldn’t handle. I grabbed dinner at a pub down on Clarendon Street one night, just a short stroll away, and it felt like I was part of the neighborhood, not some tourist stuck in a bubble.

All in all, if you’re visiting Melbourne for the tennis open or just want to explore without the hassle of long commutes, this place is a solid pick – it’s got that 4-star reliability with an 8.1 rating that feels earned, not inflated. Families or longer-stay folks would love the apartment-style setup, and honestly, for the price, it’s way better value than those flashy spots in Southbank. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in spring when the gardens are blooming and the area’s buzzing but not overwhelming. Just pack light – the elevators can be a tad slow during busy times.

Rooms

• King Studio with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• One-Bedroom King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults, 2 children
• One-Bedroom Room for 3 adults, 2 children
• Two-Bedroom Dual Key Quadruple Room for 5 adults, 4 children
• Two-Bedroom Dual Key Family Room for 5 adults, 4 children

Reviews

• Rossignuolo from United States (8/10)

  Perfect for what we needed – a hotel close to the MCG for a function we were attending.

• Bayley from United States (8/10)

  The breakfast that was included was excellent!
  The reception staff was very helpful.
  LOVED having laudry facilities next to our room!
  We upgraded to a larger room and it was very spacious.
  Liked that the gym had a scale so we could prepare our luggage for the airplane.

• Beck from Australia (8/10)

  Room was comfortable and staff were helpful

• Jen from Australia (8/10)

  Great value and location for concert at Rod Laver

• Kym from Australia (7/10)

  Location – so close to CBD and rod laver

• Kynan from Australia (7/10)

  Location was ideal. Microwave was handy.

• Nicola from Australia (9/10)

  The lobby was welcoming with a water bar to keep hydrated and snack basket to those who needed it. Staff were polite and very helpful. Loved the free gift
  Voucher to use at the bar and cute car chocolates on arrival (themed with Grand Prix weekend)

• Rachel from Australia (9/10)

  Excellent location and facilities. We felt really lucky to get such a good place for the F1 for good value. The staff were great and so accommodating for our needs even allowing us to check out an hour later.

• Melissa from Australia (9/10)

  Great location close to sporting venues.

• Julie from Australia (7/10)

  location

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities