Tucked away on a leafy side street off South Yarra’s bustling Toorak Road is the Lyall – a luxe boutique hotel that seeks to emulate a Parisian escape in the heart of Melbourne.
Over the past 20 years it has garnered a reputation as a beloved establishment, but after closing for two years for a transformative renovation, it’s now back with dazzling, all-new interiors that still maintain its charming character.
The Lyall reopened in March this year, after it was sold to the same owners behind another local boutique hotel, the Royce. It’s been reimagined by the DKO Interior design team, who have meticulously brought to life a vision that combines refinement with comfort. Down to the most minute detail, every aspect of the Lyall feels considered. There’s a careful curation of all elements, from the plush hallway carpet to the Japanese maple garden in the centre courtyard with meticulously trimmed hedges. The blend of Australian and European furniture with quality, but minimalist pieces creates a true sense of understated luxury. Overall, it feels modern and fresh, but still classic.
Stepping into the lobby, guests are greeted as though they’ve returned home, and invited to sit down by the fireplace as they check in. There is clearly a deep respect for the tradition of hospitality here, with small but meaningful touches that are a testament to diligent consideration and anticipation guest’s needs. The Lyall is a favourite of stars like tennis champ Novak Djokovic, but you’d believe that everyone who stays here is made to feel special.
This hotel is not just designed for visitors to Melbourne though, as the quaint bar and bistro is just as much a place for southside locals to gather for an aperitivo or post-work drink – perhaps before heading to one of the many restaurants just around the corner. While the hotel is undeniably opulent, it has a homely feel – reminiscent of a European pied-à-terre. It does truly feel like you could be overseas – there are romantic Juliette balconies in each room and twinkling fairy lights wrapped around the trees outside next to an al fresco terrace that would make for a lovely spot to sip a Spritz in summer.
There are an array of options across the 49 rooms and suites to suit different guests, starting from $305 a night, and all of them have luxury amenities (there are Dyson hair dryers in every room!). I stayed in a deluxe suite, which featured a very comfortable king-sized bed, a generously sized bath and even a separate guest toilet. You can find out more about the accommodation offerings and book your stay on the website.
Time Out tip: to really embrace the European theme, dine out at classic French restaurant France-Soir, which is just a five minute walk from the hotel.
Liv Condous stayed as a guest of the Lyall Hotel in 2024.