Hotel Windsor Melbourne
EM has checked into ... The Hotel Windsor, Melbourne
There is a reason why Hotel Windsor is named as the Grande Dame or the Duchess of Spring Street and its well known reputation has been cultivated since 1883. From seeing the majestic hotel on the outside to the magnificent heritage rooms, every part and corner of the hotel brings you into a historical journey, allowing you to truly experience the significant Victorian era.
Many would say that the hotel looks outdated and old-fashioned but I strongly disagree. In fact, the hotel still proudly stand strong throughout the dynamic changes in the hotel industry and should be a quintessential experience for anyone to stay, whether you are a local or traveller. You will not find any other hotels like The Hotel Windsor hence it is definitely a one-of-a-kind compared to other boutique hotels.
Website
I love how the homepage places a strong focus on the short video with minimal hotel description. Video is the upcoming trend for hotels to engage with users and great to see Hotel Windsor already taken a lead compared to other hotels in Melbourne. Specifically, it is also very clever of Hotel Windsor to emphasise on the service factor in the short video as a marketing message to make one feel grand, special and important.
Great to see regular posts to engage with their followers, ranging from major events, important historical facts of the hotel, its facade and of course their well-known afternoon tea. Although they generally have a higher count of likes on posts with employees in them such as the International Women's Day post and Parici Women Connect post.
Regular posts on their Facebook page once again with prompt interaction with their Facebook users in the comments. Maybe it will be great to place the same short video from their homepage to its Facebook cover to add a 'wow' factor.
On my way to the entrance
Reception Desk at the Lobby
Lobby with the grand staircase, grand piano and towards the grand ballroom
Love the old-fashioned lift buttons!
The corridor towards guest rooms...slowly going back in time and immersing into the experience
Room
We were surprised to be upgraded to the Victorian Suite, which took our breathe away. The 122 square-metre suite took us back in time and certainly delivered a luxury charm. You can entertain and also have your privacy 'quarters' just like how the nobles and wealthy society do in their mundane life. The bed was extremely comfortable and probably the best so far in Melbourne. It allows you to sink into a deep sleep with smooth sheets and when you wake up, you feel completely rejuvenated.
Welcome to our elegant surprise!
A place for you to hang our coats, hats and umbrellas...a great vintage touch!
Love the modern yet somewhat vintage jacuzzi bathtub
The glorious king bed
The expansive living area
The view of The Old Treasury Building
Breakfast
Morning comes and time to feed the hungry souls who have been well rested through the night...all thanks to the magical bed. The buffet breakfast is served at The Hotel Windsor's signature One Eleven Spring St where people are well acquainted with its afternoon tea venue. I would say the buffet selection is quite standard with the normal breakfast offerings which you would expect in any hotels. But I would comment that their hot items such as bacon and scrambled eggs are well prepared and simply delicious. Oh and I truly love their silverware, plates and cups...they look so adorable yet prestigious, making you feel so elegant and premium.
Verdict
Overall, I think Hotel Windsor Melbourne is a must stay for anyone to experience the Victorian heritage and highly recommended for a weekend escape. Every staff that we have encountered were superb which made us feel welcomed and special.
Although I would have to say that the hotel should consider a refurbishment in the future to replace either the carpet or walls to give the hotel a fresher outlook yet keeping the vintage look and feel.
The hotel definitely gives off a more feminine aura hence I think it will be a special treat for a girls' getaway or a lovely mother and daughter retreat. Mother's Day is coming soon so why not take this opportunity to treat your mother to an elegant afternoon tea followed by a night stay? I promise that it will be a vintage oasis for you and your mother.
Till next time, take care and stay inspired.
xoxo EM
