

Hotel Description
You know, I stumbled upon the Upscale Collingwood Retreat during a quick getaway to Melbourne last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those spots that just clicks – like finding a quiet corner in the middle of all the chaos. Tucked away in Collingwood, right off Smith Street (you know, that buzzing strip with all the vintage shops and killer cafes), this place is basically a high-end apartment that’s got that sleek, modern vibe without feeling too sterile. I mean, I pulled up in my rental car – and let me tell you, scoring a dedicated car park in this part of town is a godsend, especially when you’re dodging the trams rattling down nearby Johnston Street or trying to navigate the one-way lanes during peak hour. Check-in was a breeze; no fuss at the front desk, just a quick code for the door and you’re in. Walking through the lobby – well, it’s more like an entryway with polished concrete floors and some arty prints on the walls – I caught that faint whiff of eucalyptus from the diffuser, which sort of sets the tone for a relaxed Aussie escape. The apartment itself? Spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows letting in that golden afternoon light, and a kitchen that’s actually stocked well enough to whip up a brekkie (though why bother when Proud Mary’s coffee shop is literally a five-minute stroll away?).
What really sold me, though, was how it balances that upscale feel with real practicality – like, the king bed with those crisp, high-thread-count sheets that make you sink in after a day wandering the street art alleys around here (Collingwood’s got some of the best murals in Melbourne, hidden down laneways off Peel Street). There’s a balcony overlooking a quiet courtyard, which is perfect for sipping a local craft beer in the evening while the distant hum of the city fades out – though fair warning, if you’re a light sleeper, you might hear the occasional laughter spilling over from the bars on Smith Street, especially on weekends when the area’s in full swing. It’s not overwhelming, mind you, just a reminder you’re in one of Melbourne’s hippest suburbs, close enough to hop on a tram to the CBD or even walk to Fitzroy Gardens if you’re feeling energetic. I appreciated the little touches, like the rainfall shower that actually has decent pressure (none of that dribble you get in some places), and the fact that it’s pet-friendly – brought my dog along once, and it was no drama. Oh, and during the quieter winter months, when the laneways aren’t packed with tourists, this spot feels even more like a private retreat; summers can get lively, but that’s part of the charm.
All in all, if you’re after a 4-star setup that’s more apartment than hotel – with that perfect mix of luxury and local immersion – I’d say book this one without hesitation. It’s not the cheapest option around (expect to pay a premium for the parking and polish), but for travelers who want to feel like they’re living in Collingwood rather than just visiting, it’s spot on. You end up saving on Ubers anyway, since everything’s walkable – from hole-in-the-wall eateries to the Yarra River trails. Trust me, after a few days here, you’ll be plotting your next Melbourne trip around it.
Rooms
- Estimated price from: $388. Apartment with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4


Reviews
Exceptional in Collingwood – Fraser from New Zealand – 16 June 2025 (10/10)
This really is a special place to stay. A true home away from home. Very luxuriously appointed, with everything you need and more.. the espresso machine and bean grinder were a winner.
Love the funky art and decor.
Great location just off bustling Smith St, but very quiet.
It is run by a professional accommodation management company who are responsive to messages.
What could be improved: Hard to think of anything. Key collection and drop off is a bit of a faf as not at the property. And you only get one key, which can require a bit of logistics if you are out separately.
An area rug in the lounge area would make it more comfortable on those cold winter nights.Had a great stay. A beautiful, modern and comfortable apartment that is centrally located. I would unreservedly recommen – Mark from Australia – 10 July 2025 (10/10)
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SURROUNDINGS
What’s nearby:
- Cooks’ Cottage: 1.8 km
- Carlton Gardens: 1.6 km
- Garry Owen Park: 1.4 km
- Melbourne Museum: 1.3 km
- Peel Street Park: 450 m
- Condell Street Reserve: 500 m
- Atherton Gardens Reserve: 700 m
- Fareshare Kitchen Garden: 1.2 km
- Fitzroy Wild-Plants & Cactus: 650 m
- Carlton Primary Community Garden: 1.8 km
Restaurants & cafes:
- Cafe/bar The Moon: 50 m
- Restaurant Goon BBQ: 100 m
- Restaurant Rock Salt & Vinegar: 150 m
Top attractions:
- Eureka Tower: 3.5 km
- Melbourne Zoo: 4.2 km
- Immigration Museum: 3.4 km
- Old Melbourne Gaol: 2.3 km
- Southbank Promenade: 3.3 km
- Old Treasury Building: 2 km
- Shrine of Remembrance: 4.4 km
- SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: 3.7 km
- Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne: 4.2 km
- ACMI – Australian Centre for the Moving Image: 3 km
Natural beauty:
- Lake Ornamental Lake: 3.7 km
Beaches in the neighbourhood:
- St Kilda Beach: 8 km
- Sandridge Beach: 7 km
- Middle Park Beach: 7 km
Public transport:
- Metro Parliament: 1.9 km
- Train Collingwood: 1.2 km
- Train Victoria Park: 1.2 km
- Metro Melbourne Central Station: 2.7 km
- Bus Essendon Keilor CollegeLock St: 16 km
- Bus El Reno Cres/Roberts Rd (Airport West): 16 km
Closest airports:
- Melbourne Airport: 21 km
- Moorabbin Airport: 24 km
- Essendon Fields Airport: 11 km
Facilities
Bedroom:
- Linen
- Wardrobe or closet
Bathroom:
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Private bathroom
- Free toiletries
- Hairdryer
Outdoors:
- Outdoor furniture
- BBQ facilities
- Patio
- Balcony
Living Area:
- Dining area
- Sofa
- Seating Area
- Desk
Food & Drink:
- Tea/Coffee maker
Accessibility:
- Upper floors accessible by elevator
Miscellaneous:
- Air conditioning
- Non-smoking throughout
- Heating
Room Amenities:
- Private entrance
- Fan
- Ironing facilities
- Iron
Languages spoken:
- English
Safety & security:
- Fire extinguishers
- Smoke alarms
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
Media & Technology:
- Flat-screen TV
- TV
Great for your stay:
- Private bathroom
- Balcony
- Parking
- Kitchen
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Flat-screen TV
- Free parking
- Washing machine
- BBQ facilities
Parking Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).:
- Accessible parking
Other for your stay:
- Dining table
- Coffee machine
- Cleaning products
- Toaster
- Stovetop
- Oven
- Tumble dryer
- Kitchenware
- Kitchen
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Refrigerator


Rules
Pets:
- Pets are not allowed.
Parties:
- Parties/events are not allowed
Smoking:
- Smoking is not allowed.
Check-in:
- From 15:00
- Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in
Check-out:
- Until 10:00
Age restriction:
- Check-in is only possible for guests aged between 23 and 99
Cancellation/prepayment:
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.
Guest reviews
Staff:
Comfort:
Location:
Facilities:
Cleanliness:
Value for money:
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