Sol Docklands – Unique 3 Bedroom Loft, Infinity Pool, Gym, Free Parking and Free Trams

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to Sol Docklands on a drizzly Melbourne afternoon – you know, one of those days where the wind off the harbour whips right through you, but hey, that’s Docklands for you. The address is 387 Docklands Drive, smack in the middle of this revamped waterfront spot that’s honestly come a long way from its industrial roots. It’s just a stone’s throw from Marvel Stadium – I caught a footy game there last time I was in town – and you’ve got the free City Circle tram stopping basically at your doorstep, which is a godsend if you’re heading into the CBD without wanting to deal with Flinders Street traffic. Parking? Free, and secure too, which is rare in this part of the city where spots vanish faster than a flat white at brunch. Check-in was a breeze; it’s more like an apartment setup than a stuffy hotel lobby – the host handed over the keys with a quick chat about the best local spots, like grabbing fish and chips at Cargo down by the water. The building itself has this modern, glassy vibe, but inside, it’s all about that loft feel – exposed beams, high ceilings, and views that stretch out over the docks. Oh, and the smell of fresh coffee from the in-unit machine hit me right away; little touches like that make you feel settled in no time.

What really sets this place apart, though – and I mean, I’ve stayed in a few spots around Melbourne – is how it packs in the perks without feeling over-the-top. It’s billed as a unique 3-bedroom loft, and yeah, it lives up to that: spacious enough for a family or a group of mates, with bedrooms that actually give you privacy (no paper-thin walls here). The infinity pool on the rooftop? Absolute highlight. I dipped in early one morning when the city was still waking up, and watching the sun rise over the Bolte Bridge while floating there – well, it sort of resets your whole day. The gym’s solid too, nothing fancy but equipped with free weights and cardio machines that don’t feel like they’re from the ’90s. Free trams mean you can zip to Queen Vic Market for fresh produce or even South Wharf for a bite at The General Assembly – saves a ton on Ubers, especially during peak hour when everything grinds to a halt. That said, Docklands can get a bit noisy on game nights with crowds spilling out from the stadium, but the double-glazed windows keep most of it at bay. And honestly, the kitchen’s kitted out so well I ended up cooking more than eating out – think herbs in the fridge and a dishwasher that actually works quietly.

Look, if you’re after a 4-star spot with a 9.3 rating that feels more like a home base than a generic hotel room, Sol Docklands is it. It’s perfect for longer stays, say a week exploring Melbourne’s laneways or hitting up the Australian Open in summer – just note it gets busier then, so book ahead. I’ve recommended it to friends heading down for work trips, because that free parking and tram access make commuting a non-issue, and the pool-gym combo keeps you sane amid the city buzz. Minor gripe? The wind can make outdoor lounging tricky sometimes, but that’s Melbourne weather for you – pack a jacket. All in all, it’s the kind of place that sticks with you, making you wish you had more time to just lounge and soak it in. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Three-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 large double bed, 2 × 1 double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 8 adults

Reviews

• Penny from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Apartment facilities were great. The rooftop pool was fantastic.

• Sherylee from Australia (10/10)

  Was walking distance to the Marvel Stadium and there were plenty of places to eat nearby

• Celine from New Zealand (10/10)

  The tram being right outside the building is so convenient! The property is incredibly well-equipped with everything you could possibly need. There are wireless chargers in every room, a myriad of cooking utensils, soaps, two keys and the comfiest beds.
  
  Highly recommend this place. I can't imagine staying anywhere else in Melbourne now!

• Kate from Australia (9/10)

  Great layout, very comfortable, lovely welcome pack, great communication with owner. So unique

• Fiona from Australia (8/10)

  Well equipped tastefully decorated 3 level apartment
  Apartment is like a home away from home Jeff has a generous pantry and leaves nice extras like wine chocolates and essential oils. He leaves lovely Hunter hand and body wash products for use.
  Love the down lighting and wall art 🙂
  
  Also Love the infinity rooftop pool
  Didn’t get to use the gym but checked it out and very adequate.
  Recommend this apartment if Docklands is your choice.

• Melissa from Australia (10/10)

  Well designed with great facilities and a perfect location. Fantastic communication with the owner who ensured we had a fantastic stay

• Agnes from Indonesia (10/10)

  The amenities are meticulously complete.

• Sheryl from Australia (10/10)

  Location was close to all that The Docklands offer…. shopping, free trams, water, groceries, coffee shops and eateries. Plenty of crockery and cutlery. Lovely bottle of Shiraz and Chocolates on arrival. Excellent communication by Host who gave detailed instructions on obtaining keys, parking and how to enter building and apartment.

• Genevieve from Australia (10/10)

  Location was really great for proximity to Marcel Stadium. Free tram right outside the door was great too. Apartment had everything we needed and was very comfortable.

• Jodie from Australia (8/10)

  Comfortable and clean.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities