When you think of Melbourne you think of the CBD, it’s OK, we all do it. While the outer suburbs might not be on any postcards, I’m here to say you should give them a chance next time you book a flight down south.
For your next getaway I’d suggest giving Novotel Melbourne Preston a go. Found in the vibrant inner north of Melbourne, this hotel gives its patrons more than just a place to rest your feet. I recently tried their Stay and Play Package, which made for the perfect escape in Melbourne.
The package includes a guaranteed room upgrade, daily breakfast, discounted parking as well as an in-room welcome pack. The package also includes a drink for two at The Stampton (more on this later!), a golf simulator experience at Big Swing Golf, a voucher toward a beauty service at the hotel’s Salon Identity, a voucher for a tasting paddle at local craft brewer Tallboy & Moose, two drinks on the house at Jamsheed Wines, a wellness credit at the nearby Urban Sanctuary, and a voucher for artisan chocolates at Chocilo.
There is so much included in the package that it makes any stay at Novotel Melbourne Preston feel decadent. I truly felt like a VIP.
After a flight it was so nice to see the trip to the hotel from the airport was only 20 minutes. From the moment I arrived, the hotel had a luxurious and modern feel.
Check-in was straightforward and the staff were friendly and professional, which immediately set the tone for a relaxing stay.
The hotel itself is contemporary, with comfortable common areas and everything you would expect from a modern Novotel property. The room was comfortable and provided a great place to unwind after a day out. There was plenty of space to relax, and the bed was particularly welcoming after a busy day. The room had all the essentials needed for a short getaway, including modern amenities and a clean, comfortable bathroom. I also appreciated the balcony that gave a beautiful view of the city lights of Melbourne’s CBD at night – a few glasses of wine were had out there!
The highlight of the stay was of course the Stay and Play Package. It took the stress of planning things to do out of my trip. I also got to try things I never would have thought of on my own like the golf simulator. Let’s just say that I didn’t miss a calling in golf!
The package showed me the charm and character of Preston in a way I’m not sure I would have managed on my own.
Another thing I enjoyed about my stay was the convenience of enjoying a high-quality meal so close to where I was staying. Being able to enjoy food and drinks without having to travel far was ideal, particularly after a day of activities. The in-house restaurant The Stampton is exactly what a hotel restaurant should be.
There was a cosy area for patrons to enjoy casual pre-dinner drinks before moving into the more formal dining area. I had the cheesy garlic bread, Al Gamberi Risotto with Prawn and an Old Fashioned, which were all delicious. I enjoyed my experience so much I went back the next evening to try even more of the menu. It was a true testament to the staff!
If you’re planning a Melbourne escape and want something a little different from a standard hotel stay, I’d definitely consider Novotel Melbourne Preston’s Stay and Play package. For a short getaway, it ticks a lot of boxes and is an easy option for anyone looking to combine accommodation with a little entertainment and relaxation.
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.