There’s something special about Richmond. On the fringe of the city, one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs bustles with the energy of people going about their day, sipping on a coffee from one of the multiple cafes along Swan Street, settling in for a beer at the local with mates gearing up for a show, or a match at the mighty MCG. The mighty Colosseum looming over Richmond station, bathing it in light. Rock shows, galleries, sporting spectacles, parks and the Yarra River trail all within walking distance. It’s everything you could want. So when we were presented with the opportunity to spend time in one of Melbourne’s newest hotels, the Element Melbourne Richmond – we jumped at the chance.
Nestled away on Swan street, just a stone’s throw from the Burnley Station, Element Melbourne Richmond oozes class from the moment you walk by the water feature and into the main lobby. Designed by award-winning Melbourne architects, Rothelowman, a curved façade reflects the winding Yarra River, while tones inspired by the Australian flora sit throughout all interior spaces, which brings a unique modern style that is completely transfixing. Upon arrival, you are warmly greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, immediately making it clear that your comfort is the staff’s number one priority.
With a fabulous restaurant on the ground floor, the Mint Lane Restaurant and Bar has a great diner feel to it that extends into an absolutely stunning outdoor area, consisting of two completely decked out bungalows where you can chill out under the stars, catch up with family or friends, or just mingle with other guests. And should you feel the need to travel with your beloved four-legged family members – Element Melbourne Richmond even caters to your furry friends too, providing them with their very own mini bar of treats! No stone has been left unturned.
With some of the premier world sporting events just around the corner, I can think of nothing better than settling into Rod Laver Arena for a few matches of tennis at the Australian Open before heading over to catch a set from none other than Mr Billy Idol, the dynamic duo The Veronicas, Lismore rockers Grinspoon or perhaps the Brisbane pop outfit Cub Sport (all appearing at the Australian Open 2020).
With guest experience well and truly at the heart of this hotel, the team will be offering several thoughtful gestures to hotel guests to enhance their Aussie Open adventures come January, including the gift of a tennis survival kit, equipping guests with the essentials for a long day at the tennis (complete with a hat, sunscreen, bottled water and an energy bar).
After you’re done causing a racket at the AO, cap off your evening by taking in the local sights and sounds of Swan street on the walk back to the Element, checking back into the King Suite, and climbing into the balcony spa with an ice-cold beer. Ahhh Richmond.
Element Melbourne Richmond is located at 588 Swan Street, Richmond, Melbourne. To book, call 03 9112 8888 or visit www.marriott.com.au/hotels/travel/melel-element-melbourne-richmond/
Hot tip: Check out the AO Live Stage lineup via ausopen.com/ao-live-stage and tee up your hotel stay with the acts you want to see!
Written by Matt Wilkinson