Luxury on the banks of the Yarra River

The Yarra River meanders through the centre of Melbourne but somehow seems underutilised.

There are rowing crews training, sure, and the occasional river cruise, but largely it sits underappreciated and underused.

One Melbourne hotel that takes full advantage of its location right alongside the river is the excellent Pan Pacific Melbourne.

 

Not only is the hotel brilliantly located for enjoying the many waterfront bars and eateries at South Wharf, it offers expansive river views from most of its rooms. The views from mine are above (it was a grey Melbourne day, unfortunately). 

It is also right on the doorstep of the massive Direct Factory Outlet shopping facility, and the Melbourne Convention Centre.

Pan Pacific Melbourne is also just a short stroll along the riverbank from the Crown Casino and Southern Cross Station. So location, location, location.

Even entry level rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, along with en-suite bathrooms with both bath tubs and walk-in showers.

There is a choice of king-sized bed or twin beds and an executive writing table with ergonomic desk chair. Perfect for those who have work to do while staying. There are bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer, along with Balmain (Pierre not the Sydney suburb) toiletries.

Each room has a large LG LED television with local and cable channels and movies on demand; high-speed wifi. a safe, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a minibar if requested.

There are a range of packages available; per haps chocolate and bubbles in the room, or an afternoon high tea.

In my opinion is well worth upgrading your room choice, or being a member of Pan Pacific's Discovery club, to have access to the Pan Pacific Club during your stay.

Check into a Yarra Suite (above) for a seriously decadent getaway: a splendid view of the River, a separate lounge area, club lounge access and lots of little extras.

Access to the fourth-floor Pacific Club (above) offers a full buffet breakfast (very good it is, too). and the chance to enjoy canapes with cocktails in the evening, along with access to computers and a printer.

The evening spread is so good it can replace dinner if you don't want to leave the hotel.

Other Pacific Club benefits include all-day refreshments and pressing or dry cleaning of up to two pieces of clothing per room per night. There is a nice chilled vibe here.

Food and beverage outlets include Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen, Café Orr or 24-hour room service.

Did I mention the staff? I found them uniformly excellent; helpful and smiling across the board. 

Pan Pacific Melbourne is at 2 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne. Check out https://www.panpacific.com/

* The writer was hosted by Pan Pacific Melbourne