Southbank Sanctuary with Pool & Gym

Southbank Sanctuary with Pool & Gym Overview

I remember pulling up to the Southbank Sanctuary with Pool & Gym on Balston Street – you know, that little stretch right off City Road in Melbourne’s Southbank, where the Yarra River bends and the high-rises start giving way to those trendy cafes along the promenade. It was one of those drizzly afternoons in autumn, and honestly, after dodging the trams on St Kilda Road, finding parking wasn’t the nightmare I expected; there’s a secure spot underground, though it fills up quick during peak hours like footy season at the MCG. Walking into the lobby felt like a sigh of relief – it’s got this modern, understated vibe with polished concrete floors that echo just a bit, and a faint scent of eucalyptus from the diffusers they have going, which, I mean, is such a Melbourne touch without being over-the-top.

What really sold me on the place – well, besides the name promising a sanctuary, which it actually delivers – was how it balances that urban buzz with some genuine downtime. My room on the higher floors overlooked the river, and at night, you’d hear the distant hum of ferries chugging along, mixed with laughter from the South Wharf bars below, but it wasn’t intrusive; the double-glazed windows kept things surprisingly quiet, especially compared to the chaos over on Flinders Street. The pool area is a highlight – outdoor, heated, with a gym that’s got free weights and treadmills facing the skyline, perfect for shaking off jet lag after a long flight into Tullamarine. I spent a morning there, the water cool and chlorine-crisp, watching joggers on the paths by the river. Rooms are spacious enough, with those plush king beds that sink just right, and a kitchenette that’s handy for whipping up brekkie from the nearby South Melbourne Market – grab some fresh avocados and you’re set. Check-in was smooth, the staff chatty without being pushy, though I will say the Wi-Fi can lag a tad during evenings when everyone’s streaming; nothing a quick reset didn’t fix, but worth noting if you’re working remotely.

All in all, if you’re after a four-star spot that’s not pretending to be five but punches above its weight with an 8/10 rating that feels earned, this is it. It’s ideal for couples or solo travelers who want to dip into Melbourne’s arts scene – you’re a short stroll from the NGV or Crown Casino for a punt, and the free tram zone makes getting to Federation Square a breeze. Sure, the breakfast options in the cafe are basic (think continental spreads, nothing fancy), and Balston Street can get a bit windy in winter, but that’s Melbourne weather for you. I’d go back in a heartbeat – it’s that rare find where you feel tucked away yet right in the mix, especially during quieter shoulder seasons like spring when the jacarandas are blooming along the riverbank. If you’re planning a trip, book ahead; it books out fast for events like the Grand Prix.

Discovering Melbourne offers visitors an unforgettable journey through Australia’s most sophisticated city, from its gold rush history to its vibrant present and world-renowned connections to arts, culture, and urban innovation.

Southbank Sanctuary with Pool & Gym Accommodations

Reviews of Southbank Sanctuary with Pool & Gym

• On top of the world! 🌏 – Hayley from New Zealand – 14 July 2025 (9/10)

  The apartment had panoramic views to die for! From sky scraper apartment views with floor to ceiling windows from the bedroom to the kitchen looking out to sea.
  
  It was very spacious and the kitchen was well kitted out for cooking. The size of the shower could easily fit 2 people. Given my son is 6ft 1 and I am also tall, the large size shower was lovely treat.
  
  We both had amazing views from our bedrooms and everywhere in the dining/living area.
  
  The guy who met us and waited for us as our fight was delayed from NZ, was very helpful in showing us to our apartment and answering some of my questions about what we were looking at with where Port Melbourne and St Kilda were. Where the tram is to catch etc.
  
  The Woolworths Supermarket was right across the road from the hotel and the fridge was large enough for a weeks worth of food.
  
  My son used the gym, which was very basic and too busy to use at peak times, but he had a couple of workouts around these times on his own.
  
  Great location. Close to The Crowne Casino, DFO Southbank and not too far from the CBD. We soon realised it was very expensive taking the tram at $5.50 each way per person and it was $11 for an Uber. So taking Uber's became our norm.
  
  The heat pump kept the apartment nice and warm at 19° during the morning and 17° while sleeping.
  
  Communication with staff online managing our Airbnb was fast and efficient of handling any issues that needed sorted in the apartment or help with things.
  
  What could be improved: The apartment is surrounded by the motorway and traffic noise is loud. There was no way we could sit outside on the balcony and relax because of the constant traffic noise.
  
  We spent most of our day out of the apartment so it didn't bother us too much. The views and the lovely apartment set up and size, far outweighed the traffic noise.
  
  The main large hob never worked the whole time we were there, which was a bit annoying and there was a constant rattle in the air conditioning vent above the kitchen.
  
  To our surprise we woke one morning to loud banging and noises outside our apartment and the carpet in the hallway had been ripped up and a guy was using a crow bar to remove the pieces of wood with nails in them. Nobody had informed us that was going to be happening, and it was the only morning we were trying to have a sleep in and a rest morning, after our early flight and time difference.

• Very good – Maree from Australia – 11 June 2025 (8/10)

Surroundings

Facilities