18 Hoff Boulevard, Southbank, 3006 Melbourne, Australia
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Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the Skyline Serenity Retreat on Hoff Boulevard in Southbank – you know, that stretch right off Queensbridge Street where the Yarra River bends and the city skyline just pops against the water. It’s one of those spots in Melbourne where you’re smack in the middle of the action without feeling overwhelmed, especially if you’re coming from the CBD side. I arrived mid-afternoon during peak tourist season (think summer, when the Australian Open crowds flood in), and honestly, finding parking was a bit of a hassle – there’s valet, but it’s an extra $40 a day, which adds up if you’re staying a week. But once I stepped inside, the lobby hit me with this calming vibe: soft lighting, a faint eucalyptus scent from the diffusers (classic Aussie touch), and these massive windows framing the river views. Check-in was smooth – the staff were chatty locals who tipped me off about the best time to hit the Southbank Promenade for sunset walks, avoiding the dinner rush from nearby spots like Crown Casino. I mean, it’s not flawless; the elevators can get backed up during evenings when everyone’s heading out, but nothing that ruined the stay.

What really sold me on this place – and it’s a solid 4-star spot with that 8.1 rating for a reason – is how it balances the buzz of Melbourne with actual serenity. My room on the higher floors overlooked the skyline, and let me tell you, waking up to the sun glinting off the Eureka Tower while sipping coffee from the in-room Nespresso (they stock decent pods, not the cheap stuff) felt like a mini escape. The beds are plush, with those crisp white linens that smell faintly of lavender – well, sort of a spa-like thing without trying too hard. I appreciated the practical bits, like the blackout curtains that actually work against the city lights, and the bathroom’s rainfall shower that blasts away the humidity after a humid day exploring Federation Square (it’s just a 10-minute stroll across the bridge). Noise-wise, it’s quieter than you’d expect for Southbank – you might hear faint tram bells from St Kilda Road in the mornings, but nothing intrusive, especially if you avoid rooms facing the boulevard. Oh, and the rooftop pool? It’s a gem during quieter winter months when the tourists thin out; I spent an afternoon there reading, with the wind carrying that fresh river air – though it can get windy up there, so pack a light jacket.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that lets you dip into Melbourne’s energy – grabbing brekkie at a cafe on Clarendon Street or catching a show at the Arts Centre – without the constant hustle, Skyline Serenity is worth it. It’s not the flashiest (no over-the-top gym or Michelin-star dining), but for the price, it delivers that authentic Southbank feel. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially off-peak when rates drop and the place feels even more like your own little retreat. Just remember to book a river-view room – trust me, it makes all the difference.

Rooms

  • Two-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children
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Reviews

  • Julie from Australia (9/10)

    The view is second to none – spectacular. Ideal location for where we needed to be. Bed was comfy.

  • Helen from Australia (7/10)

    It was a great spot

  • Grant from Cayman Islands (7/10)

    The location and views were fantastic. The apartment itself is modern and nice.

  • Nicodemus from Australia (9/10)

    The accommodations were fantastic with excellent amenities and a convenient location. The presence of Woolworths, a bottle shop, and an Asian grocery on-site made our stay incredibly convenient. The host was very helpful in ensuring we were settled in comfortably. Our family was excited to utilize the pool, gym, and sauna facilities, which did not disappoint. The lap pool was a favourite, making it great for morning lap swims. It is important to note that an induction with concierge/reception is required to use the facilities (basically, filling out your name through a QR code and acknowledging the dos and don'ts) Overall, this venue offers great value for money in a prime location.

  • Stella from Australia (9/10)

    Amazing property in fantastic location! clean and modern facilities and great views. Kitchen and bathroom were beautiful and had all the facilities we needed.
    The pool & spa are stunning 🤩
    We had a very busy stay and found it really convenient having the late night Woolworths next door! And only a short walk to Southbank restaurants 🙌🏽

  • Randeep from Australia (8/10)

    location and view

  • Anne from Australia (9/10)

    Lovely apartment.
    Loved the shower.
    Big windows – had a great view.
    Close to everything.
    Woolworths that opens till late and BWS downstairs.

  • Matt from Australia (7/10)

    The view

  • Kim from Australia (9/10)

    Great location and views over Melbourne. Close to everything

  • Alinta from Australia (9/10)

    Host was quick to respond to call and re-arranged a lock box for key when our flight was delayed.
    Location and apartment was fantastic. Amazing view, great price, kitchen had everything you need.

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SURROUNDINGS

What’s nearby:

  • Boyd Park: 150 m
  • Eureka Tower: 850 m
  • Rialto Towers: 1.6 km
  • Eastern Reserve: 1.5 km
  • Immigration Museum: 1.1 km
  • Southbank Promenade: 1 km
  • The Genie Sculpture: 1.2 km
  • Riverslide Skate Park: 1.4 km
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: 1.3 km
  • ACMI – Australian Centre for the Moving Image: 1.6 km

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Pot au Feu: 350 m
  • Restaurant Malay Momma: 350 m
  • Restaurant Roza’s Kitchen-Pizza Burgers Pasta: 400 m

Top attractions:

  • Melbourne Zoo: 5 km
  • Cooks’ Cottage: 2.6 km
  • Melbourne Museum: 3.6 km
  • Old Melbourne Gaol: 2.8 km
  • Old Treasury Building: 2.4 km
  • Shrine of Remembrance: 1.8 km
  • Australian Sports Museum: 2.8 km
  • Manchester Unity Building: 1.7 km
  • Victoria University City Tower: 2.1 km
  • Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne: 2.2 km

Natural beauty:

  • Lake Ornamental Lake: 2.4 km

Beaches in the neighbourhood:

  • Elwood Beach: 7 km
  • St Kilda Beach: 5 km
  • Sandridge Beach: 4.2 km
  • Middle Park Beach: 4 km

Public transport:

  • Metro Flagstaff: 2.1 km
  • Train Southern Cross Station: 2 km
  • Train Flinders Street Station: 1.4 km
  • Metro Melbourne Central Station: 2.3 km
  • Bus Essendon Keilor CollegeLock St: 18 km
  • Bus El Reno Cres/Roberts Rd (Airport West): 18 km

Closest airports:

  • Melbourne Airport: 23 km
  • Moorabbin Airport: 21 km
  • Essendon Fields Airport: 12 km

Facilities

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet

Kitchen:

  • Dining table
  • Cleaning products
  • Toaster
  • Stovetop
  • Oven
  • Kitchenware
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Refrigerator
  • Kitchenette

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Hairdryer
  • Shower

Wellness:

  • Fitness
  • Spa facilities
  • Sauna

Living Area:

  • Dining area
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Tea/Coffee maker

Miscellaneous:

  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Heating
  • Lift
  • Family rooms
  • Non-smoking rooms

Outdoor & View:

  • City view
  • View

Room Amenities:

  • Drying rack for clothing
  • Clothes rack
  • Fan
  • Iron

Languages spoken:

  • English
  • Chinese

Safety & security:

  • CCTV outside property
  • CCTV in common areas
  • Smoke alarms

Media & Technology:

  • Flat-screen TV
  • TV

Most popular facilities:

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Free WiFi
  • Family rooms
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Sauna
  • Lift
  • Air conditioning

Outdoor swimming pool Free!:

  • Opening times
  • All ages welcome
  • Pool with view
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Rules

Pets:

  • Pets are not allowed.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00 to 23:00
  • You’ll need to let the property know in advance what time you’ll arrive.

Check-out:

  • Until 10:00

Age restriction:

  • The minimum age for check-in is 21

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.

Guest reviews

Staff:

8.0

Comfort:

8.3

Location:

9.3

Free WiFi:

7.5

Facilities:

7.9

Cleanliness:

8.2

Value for money:

8.1

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