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The best way to experience Melbourne’s hottest entertainment is through a stay on Southbank, a vibrant district on the banks of the Yarra River. And there’s no better place to start than with a weekend at Crown Metropol Melbourne – offering five-star elegance within easy reach of the city’s most glamorous hotspots. Part of the famed Crown Melbourne complex, Australia’s leading integrated resort, the luxe hotel sits just minutes from award-winning bars and dining, world-class gaming and high-end shopping. When you’re ready to retreat from the Southbank buzz, a luxe sanctuary with plush bedding, a sky-high swimming pool and gym with epic city views awaits.
Friday
Pre-dinner drinks at 28 Skybar Lounge
Where better to start than with pre-dinner drinks at the highest and most exclusive cocktail bar in Crown Melbourne? Here, jaw-dropping views across the cityscape stretch as far as the Dandenong Ranges on a clear day. There’s an extensive wine list, but the stars of the show are the signature cocktails. What will it be: a Strawberry Tonic with sloe gin or maybe a Vicar’s Folly with Canadian Club and Kahlua?
Laidback Californian plates at Crown’s newest restaurant, Marmont (reservation required)
A diverse menu of small plates (many designed to share) and an inimitable Los Angeles spirit sets Marmont apart. Named after (and inspired by) iconic Los Angeles hotel Chateau Marmont – itself home to celebrities like Anthony Bourdain, Tim Burton, Hunter S. Thompson, Lana Del Rey and countless others – the restaurant’s open-air design, buzzing atmosphere and seafood- and martini-focused menu have already cemented it as one of Crown’s best bites.
Saturday
Take a Southbank stroll
No matter the day, month or season, there’s always something happening on Southbank. Taking a walk along the banks of the Yarra is a great way to get a feel for Melbourne. In summer, street performers show off their tricks, while the cooler months call for a coffee at one of the many cafés.
Whizz up to the Eureka Skydeck, the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck, for sweeping city views across to Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Albert Park and beyond. If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, Crown’s designer boutiques have you covered, from Hugo Boss to SABA, Witchery and Guess.
Feed your appetite for adventure (reservation required)
Plan ahead and score a hotly sought-after reservation at one of Melbourne’s most coveted restaurants – think Grill Americano, Yakimono, Society, Farmers Daughters or Gimlet. Get dressed up to the nines (think 1920s New York chic) and settle in for an indulgent evening. Start with an aperitif when you arrive, then move on to working your way through menus sure to leave you wanting more.
See where the night takes you…
Between 9pm and midnight, eight towers along Southbank shoot the world’s largest fireballs into the night’s sky every hour, on the hour. Time your stroll back to Crown so you catch this incredible display.
If you’re not tired, you’re in good company because Southbank never sleeps. After-dark activities are in generous supply at Crown Melbourne, where ‘one more drink for the road’ leads to trying your luck with world-class gaming at the casino or catching a last-minute show. If you’ve brought your dancing shoes, the Level 3 nightclubs have you covered with Vegas vibes at Therapy and Melbourne’s hottest DJs at Co.
Sleep in ultra-luxe comfort at Crown Metropol Melbourne
Proudly proclaiming to be home to the ‘best bed you’ve ever slept in’, Crown Metropol Melbourne is just the place to rest your weary head. Each modern room features luxe details like oversized showers, chic chaise lounges and custom beds.
Take things to the next level in NYC-style The Loft, featuring a separate living room with breathtaking city views. Enjoy a meal at the four-seater dining table, take a long soak in the Japanese-inspired bath and help yourself to freshly brewed coffee from your personal Nespresso machine.
Sunday
Next-day recovery: A sky-high swim and breakfast at Mr. Hive Kitchen & Bar
Nothing blows those cobwebs away like an early-morning swim – and it’s even better when it’s on the 27th floor with panoramas of Melbourne. After some laps, relax on the plush lounge seating or in the bubbling spa.
After a weekend at Crown Metropol Melbourne, refuel with a full buffet breakfast at Mr. Hive Kitchen & Bar, a favourite among Melburnians and visitors alike. Settle into one of the seats under the wicker-style chandeliers and savour breakfast classics, tea and coffee.
Discover Melbourne
Feature image: The Loft at Crown Metropol Melbourne.
