North Melbourne Retreat

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the North Melbourne Retreat on Blackwood Street – it’s this quiet little pocket in North Melbourne, you know, just a stone’s throw from the bustle of Errol Street with its funky cafes and that old-school pub, the Leveson. Honestly, I was skeptical at first; the address is tucked away in one of those narrow Victorian-era laneways, and finding parking was a bit of a juggle – street spots are free but fill up quick, especially on weekends when everyone’s hitting the Queen Victoria Market nearby. But once I stepped inside, it was like exhaling after a long day. The check-in was super low-key – no massive lobby, just a friendly host who handed over the key with a quick chat about the best tram route into the CBD (the 57 or 58 stops practically at your doorstep, and it’s only a 10-minute ride to Flinders Street Station). The place feels more like a stylish apartment block than a hotel, with that fresh linen scent hitting you right away, and the rooms – well, mine had this massive window overlooking a leafy courtyard that muffled the distant hum of city traffic.

What really won me over, though, was how it nails that retreat vibe without trying too hard. The rooms are modern but cozy, with plush king beds that actually sink in just right (none of that rock-hard mattress nonsense), and little touches like a Nespresso machine stocked with pods – perfect for that morning brew while watching the magpies chatter in the trees outside. I mean, it’s rated 9.6 for a reason; everything’s spotless, and the bathroom had those rainfall showers that make you linger a bit too long. Being in North Melbourne means you’re close to real local gems – wander down to Arden Street for a killer flat white at Auction Rooms, or hop over to Royal Park for a jog if you’re into that (it’s gorgeous in spring when the jacarandas are blooming, but watch for the cyclists zooming through). Noise-wise, it’s surprisingly peaceful for how central it is; sure, you might hear the occasional tram rattle by on Flemington Road, but it fades into white noise after dark. And get this – they have bikes you can borrow, which was a game-changer for me exploring the area without dealing with Ubers during peak hour traffic. Oh, and if you’re traveling solo or with a partner, the kitchenettes are a lifesaver; I whipped up a quick pasta from market buys one night, saving a fortune on eating out.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels authentically Melbourne – sort of urban yet chilled, without the tourist trap prices – this is it. It’s not flawless; the Wi-Fi can glitch a tad during busy evenings (blame the neighborhood’s spotty coverage, I guess), but that’s minor compared to how refreshed I felt leaving. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the streets are less crowded and you can snag a room without booking months ahead. Trust me, it’s the kind of place that makes you rethink those flashy CBD hotels – why bother when you’ve got this gem right here? (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Trish from Australia (10/10)

  The location was great and the unit was amazing all those little extras that you just never get in even 5star hotels the bed was comfortable not like sleeping on the floor. I could not recommend this retreat enough it was really really great forgot to mention gym and pool don’t hesitate book now you won’t regret it.

• Karen from Australia (8/10)

  Style & ambience.

• Vik018 from Australia (9/10)

  Excellent, location, easy to walk to the Queen Victoria Markets and the city. It was also very quiet, considering how close it was to busy roads. The apartment was well resourced with kitchen requirements and the bedding was super comfortable.

• Emma from Australia (10/10)

  The hosts were so lovely and made sure everything was perfect for us; the hotel was lovely and clean, and the facilities were beautiful. Would 100% recommend staying here!

• Sonia from Australia (10/10)

  Very stylish and clean unit. The owners could not have been more helpful Great amenities.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities