Melbourne is filled to the brim with hotels, but if you're keen to skip the cookie-cutter lodging in favour of something one-of-a-kind, the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is likely just what you're looking for. If you've ever walked down Collins Street, you've probably already caught sight of this eye-catching neo-gothic building dating back to the 1890s, a period when our city was in its post-Gold Rush heyday and often described as 'Marvelous Melbourne'.
It all began in 1890 when architect William Pitt (the brains behind the Princess Theatre) designed the Rialto building as an office space. Just a year later, the space next door became the Wool Exchange building, described by the Australian National Trust as a prominent example of the "brick Romanesque style from the closing phase of the gold boom". They symbolise a significant era of the city's architectural history, and lucky for Melburnians and visitors alike, you can book an overnight stay in this historically significant space.
Acquired by InterContinental Hotels Group in 2006, which poured a whopping $50 million into refurbishing the space, it opened its doors to hotel guests in 2008. So, what awaits you behind the building's striking facade? Inside, you'll find 253 rooms, including several premium suites, with understated, luxurious décor that meld old with new and pay homage to the history of the premises. Every guest room has access to the five-star hotel's premium amenities including the indoor rooftop heated pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi and gymnasium.
Downstairs in the spacious atrium, you'll find Alluvial Restaurant. Meander down for an impressive buffet breakfast replete with a DIY juice station, omelette bar, fresh pastries and a wide selection of hot eats like scrambled eggs, sausages and roasted tomatoes. Lunch and dinner are à la carte-style, featuring classic crowd-pleasers like steaks, pasta and upscale bar entreés like Korean-style fried chicken. And if you're after pre or post-dinner drinks, Bluestone Bar is just next door and offers up an extensive wine list.
You could easily spend your whole staycation within the walls of the Rialto, but if you're inclined to explore, the front entrance will spill you out onto Collins Street. Prime attractions like the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, Crown Melbourne and Marvel Stadium are right at your fingertips.
Time Out tip: If you're looking to mix things up during your stay after having a few meals at Alluvial, don't forget that the InterContinental Melbourne the Rialto precinct is also home to food and beverage providers like Ronnie's, Rustica, Vue de Monde and Lui Bar. Delicious and just as close in proximity so you can enjoy your meal and waddle home with a full belly, no problem.