I was very lucky to be one of the first guests to stay over the opening weekend in May. From our arrival to our (unfortunate) departure, everything we expected (and more) was simply flawless
On entry, you cant help but pause and stop to admire the stunning artwork, I have honestly never been in another Hotel that can even faintly compare to the feeling of 'home' you get when you walk through those doors
Check in was a breeze - as I mentioned this was my first ever trip to Bendigo, I was lovingly inundated with maps, brochures, dining guides, even a Pantone colour chart to explain the primary colours in Mark Schaller's art pieces.
Our room was a beautiful and compact design, bathroom surprisingly spacious and with everything that you would expect. Having a microwave and the single cup coffee-maker was such a convenience (but the coffee from The Pantry downstairs is fabulous, local and a must-do!) I consider myself to be a pretty good coffee connoisseur, and their coffee is amongst he best I have had in Melbourne
A nice touch is ORIGINAL artwork in each room, along the corridors, in reception. Having the pieces against a black wall is a work of a genius - it truly makes the colours pop and magnify how beautiful each and every piece is. Our room even had a personalised message on the wall painted by Mr Schaller himself, such a perfect and whimsy touch
The bed was a DREAM to sleep on, and my 6 Foot tall Fiancé had no issues with fitting all his gangly arms and legs in bed at night!
The communal spaces are what make this Hotel stand out from anything else I have stayed at. Wide open spaces, huge inviting tables, artwork peeping out at you from all angles. Every time I was there I found something new hidden away, paintbrushes, pictures or Mr Schaller doing his artwork, even pencils in Mason jars!
Unfortunately our time at the Hotel was limited to only 1 night, but that is nowhere long enough time to fully enjoy what Bendigo has to offer. Who knew there were funky little laneways and coffee shops dotted around the main street area. It could even be a mini-Melbourne
I really had an amazing stay, the staff are brilliant and welcoming (like family) nothing is too hard for them, whether it calling a taxi for us, or getting directions (like the lost tourists we were!)
Carl, Amy, Laura and the team were just amazing and we are already planning our return soon! read more