As you step out of the elevator and walk into the lobby on the 80th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, you might do a double take. As you're greeted by friendly staff, there's a spectacular sight that also greets you. The views of Melbourne from the enormous floor-to-ceiling windows are simply stunning, and set the tone for an amazing hotel experience.
The Ritz-Carlton is an American-born chain that has become synonymous with luxury, operating more than 100 opulent hotels and five-star resorts worldwide – with the Melbourne edition opening its doors in March 2023. Boasting 80 storeys, 257 stylish rooms, an infinity pool, regionally inspired spa packages and signature fine dining experiences, this hotel's guests are sitting in the lap of luxury.
Throughout your stay, the novelty of the hotel's insane views doesn't really wear off. Walking into your room, you'll be swept away by the wow-factor again: a dramatic reveal as the automatic blinds rise to show another angle of the panorama, overlooking Port Phillip Bay and far beyond. But thankfully, the astonishment wears off just enough for you to relax while enjoying all the luxurious elements of your room. These include a super soft king-size bed, and an expansive bathroom from which you can even opt to take in the views while relaxing in the spacious bathtub (sprinkled with complementary bath salts) thanks to a sliding panel. The finishes throughout the modern interior are deep brown and cream colours with touches of gold, evoking classic luxury. Every detail has been considered and every need accounted for – with powder rooms, a lighted vanity inside a walk-in wardrobe and the plushest robes.
The hotel's dining offering is award-winning modern Australian restaurant Atria, which also boasts amazing outlooks of the city. The venue has become one of Melbourne's best fine-diners, with a seasonally changing menu that follows the seven seasons of the Kulin Nations, and the five-course chef's tasting menu dazzles. The restaurant also offers a breakfast menu for hotel guests, with an elevated take on Australian breakfast favourites.
But if you make the most of any of the hotel's facilities during your stay, let it be the infinity swimming pool and day spa. The wellness sanctuary is located on level 64, also offering amazing views, even from the treatment rooms (with privacy blinds, of course). The spa's staff are warm and thoughtful, and are experts in treatments like aromatherapy relaxation massage. Notably, there are couple treatment rooms for special occasions, including a bathtub adorned with rose petals.
To take your relaxation to the next level, take a dip in the hydrotherapy pool, or unwind in the sauna and steam room. The 20-metre heated infinity pool is the star of the show though, with sun lounges in the water that allow you to kick back and gaze over Melbourne. Even the treadmills in the hotel's gym offer an incredible vista.
Ritz-Carlton Melbourne has just launched a wellness membership, which allows Melburnians an all-access pass to the luxuries of its pool, gym and spa facilities on a regular basis. If you're looking to (literally) elevate your wellness routine, this is the perfect solution. The monthly cost is for those who have hefty disposable income, but the benefits of this level of relaxation are a return on investment. To find out more about the memberships in this brochure.
For a definitively luxurious experience, this hotel is a prime choice. As a guest here, you'll have a truly special exprience from check-in to check-out.
Liv Condous stayed as a guest of Ritz-Carlton Melbourne.