The DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street has officially opened this week (Dec 1), becoming the brand’s first property in the Victorian capital.
Previously the Citigate Melbourne, the hotel debuts as a DoubleTree by Hilton following a comprehensive multi-million dollar refurbishment to create a comfortable, modern boutique-style 180 room hotel, taking its design cues from its location in the heart of cool, urban Melbourne and its famous neighbour, Flinders Street Station. The hotel is owned by M&L Hospitality and managed by Hilton Worldwide.
“The addition of DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street to our fast-growing global portfolio underscores our brand’s commitment to delivering our upscale, full-service hotel offering in all key markets and gateway cities around the world,” said John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton.
“We are proud to mark our brand’s entry into Melbourne with this stylish and centrally-located hotel, and we look forward to delighting guests with the award-winning service culture for which the DoubleTree by Hilton name is known – starting with our signature warm chocolate chip cookie welcome and continuing throughout the guest’s stay.”
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s dynamic city centre and opposite the iconic Flinders Street Station, DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street is within easy walking distance of Federation Square, Melbourne’s famous laneways, restaurants, bars and shopping, and the vibrant arts and entertainment district centred around the Yarra River’s south bank.
“Australasia is a key growth market for DoubleTree by Hilton, and the introduction of the brand into Melbourne in such an iconic location marks a significant milestone in expanding our offering to travellers in the region,” said,Hilton’s vice president of operations – Australasia, Ashley Spencer.
“At DoubleTree by Hilton, we know that the little things mean everything when it comes to great travel experiences, and we look forward to delighting guests at DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street with the services and amenities that have made the brand beloved internationally.”
At DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street guests will enjoy everything they need for a comfortable stay, starting with a signature chocolate chip cookie welcome and including upscale services and amenities such as Sweet Dreams bedding, HDTVs and high-speed WiFi offered throughout the hotel.
However, it is the design features inspired by Melbourne’s laneways and Flinders Street Station that will elevate every guest experience. Initiated by property owner M&L Hospitality, the multi-million dollar refurbishment by renowned designers, Melbourne-based Melissa Chen of interior design firm Mill Interiors and Michael McCann of interior design firm Dreamtime Australia Design, is full of artisan details and custom-made features. Every detail from the commissioned black-and-white photography to the upholsteries, carpets, curved headboards and bathroom sinks have all been carefully considered and produced to specification.
“M&L Hospitality is delighted to launch the first DoubleTree by Hilton in Melbourne. It is an exciting and energetic brand that will resonate with travellers who are looking for a contemporary stay in the heart of Melbourne,” said M&L Hospitality chief executive officer Neil Maxwell.
“The revamp of the DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne, our third Hilton property, makes it a key asset in our global portfolio as well as, at a local level, enriches the city’s unique flavour.”
The hotel offers food and beverage options to suit every taste. At the hotel’s stylish lobby bar, guests can relax by an open fire and watch Flinders Street buzzing by while ordering from a menu of grab-and-go breakfast, lunch and snack offerings, or enjoy a range of beers, wines, cocktails and soft drinks. The new restaurant features an open kitchen that serves up mouth-watering flame-grilled steaks, classic comfort dishes and the latest Melbourne foodie trends. From tapas to share-plates, sliders and more there is always delicious food to have with friends or a dish that is perfect for one.
Two meeting rooms accommodate up to 140 people for a range of event needs, from business to social. A 24-hour fitness centre and a 24-hour business centre – both complimentary – are also available to every guest. In addition to the warm cookie welcome, travellers staying at the hotel will enjoy other DoubleTree by Hilton brand exclusives, including an assortment of gourmet in-room tea and coffee choices, the refreshing new Aroma Actives natural skin and body care line, and an industry-recognized service culture built around the idea of CARE, which stands for Create a Rewarding Experience for guests, team members and the community.
As a participant in the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty program, Hilton HHonors members visiting DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street will enjoy double points for every stay through February 28, 2015.