Spacious light-filled 3BD sanctuary in Northcote

Hotel Description

You know, when I first pulled up to the Spacious Light-Filled 3BD Sanctuary on Beaconsfield Parade in Northcote, I was honestly a bit skeptical – it’s one of those inner-north Melbourne spots where the streets can get pretty jammed with cyclists and delivery scooters, especially around rush hour on High Street just a few blocks away. But stepping inside, well, it hit me right away: this place is like a breath of fresh air after dodging the trams on St Georges Road. The light pours in through these massive floor-to-ceiling windows – we’re talking that golden Aussie afternoon glow that makes everything feel alive – and the whole three-bedroom setup feels more like a mate’s stylish pad than some sterile hotel room. I mean, it’s got that open-plan living area with polished concrete floors (cool underfoot in summer, mind you) and a kitchen stocked with actual decent appliances, not those tiny hotel microwaves that barely heat a pie. Oh, and the smell – fresh linen mixed with whatever herbs they’ve got growing on the balcony, which overlooks a quiet patch of greenery toward Merri Creek. Parking was a breeze too; I snagged a spot right out front, though I’d say aim for off-peak if you’re driving in from the city – Northcote’s vibe picks up around dinner time with folks heading to spots like the Northcote Social Club for gigs.

What really sets this sanctuary apart, though – and yeah, it lives up to that name – is how it blends that spacious, airy feel with little thoughtful touches that make you forget you’re not at home. The bedrooms are generously sized, with king beds that actually have proper supportive mattresses (no sagging springs here, thank goodness), and blackout curtains that block out the early morning light if you’re nursing a hangover from too many craft beers at nearby bars on Ruckers Hill. I appreciated the high-speed Wi-Fi that didn’t glitch once during my Zoom calls – crucial if you’re mixing work with play – and the bathroom’s rain shower head? Bliss after a day wandering the trails along the creek or hitting up the organic markets on Saturday mornings at the Northcote Town Hall. It’s rated a solid 9.2 for a reason; everything’s spotless, and check-in was seamless with a key code system – no awkward front desk waits. That said, it’s not perfect; the place is on the second floor with stairs only (no lift), so if you’ve got heavy bags or mobility issues, pack light or ask for help. Noise-wise, it’s surprisingly peaceful for the area – you might hear the occasional tram rumble from afar, but nothing that disrupts a good night’s sleep, especially outside of peak festival seasons like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival when High Street buzzes late.

Honestly, if you’re after a four-star stay that feels authentic to Melbourne’s creative north side, this is it – a sanctuary that’s close enough to hop on the 86 tram into the CBD (about 20 minutes) but tucked away for some real downtime. I’ve stayed in fancier spots downtown, but this one left me refreshed, you know? It’s pricey for what it is during summer peaks, but worth it for families or groups wanting space without the hotel hassle. Book it if you’re keen on exploring Northcote’s cafes – grab a flat white at Mixed Business just down the road – and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve uncovered a local secret.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $311. Holiday Home with 1 large double bed, 1 single bed, 2 bunk beds and 1 double bed for Max persons: 7

Reviews

• Excellent, will come again when we come! – Kelshaw from Australia – 28 June 2025 (10/10)

  Cosy, warm, inviting – great style too.

• Suited us perfectly and very close to our party venue We found everything above expectations – Anne from Australia – 18 May 2025 (10/10)

  Very spacious and family friendly
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Lovely property. Great location. – Peter from Australia – 31 March 2025 (10/10)

  Clean. Well laid out.

• Very lovely place – Man from Singapore – 21 March 2025 (10/10)

  Clean, cosy, homely.
  
  What could be improved: No

• Fantastic stay, lovely house in a great location! – Cal from New Zealand – 2 February 2025 (9/10)

  Gorgeous property, lovely to relax in, perfect for a family

• We just loved it. Very cosy and quiet. Didn’t want to leave – Jacinta from Australia – 15 January 2025 (10/10)

  So spacious and homely!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Very comfortable for family with dog, in a lovely area. – Jacquline from Australia – 23 December 2024 (10/10)

  Really convenient set up for a family of three couples and two dogs!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Exactly as described, a great spot for a few days. – Laura from Australia – 14 November 2024 (10/10)

  Great space and well equipped.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Great place overall. – Irene from Australia – 26 February 2025 (8/10)

  Local cafes all within walking distance. Great variety on offer. Overall the house was well presented. Excellent to accomodate a family.
  
  What could be improved: Minor dislikes: the in home instructions for us were lacking details. The heating was confusing to operate, being auto set to work hours, whereas we were in the house during the day. TV was not easy to operate and no remote control. Some dishes were unclean. I washed a dishwasher full prior to using as items were covered with a greasy film.

• The house was ideal for what we wanted for our stay, the extreme weather was a challenge. – Kevin from Australia – 3 March 2025 (8/10)

  The location was ideal for us and what we were doing during our holiday. Communication from the hosts was excellent.
  
  What could be improved: Car parking for houses in that area is limited to what is available on street and can be quite competitive. The house has a nice outdoor area but no shelter at all so that limited being able to use it. Shelter to keep the sun off during the day and any rain off the seating and cushions would make a big difference.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities