There's Something for Everyone at Melbourne's Hyatt Hotels

While traveling in Australia, I had the opportunity to tour both the Park Hyatt and Grand Hyatt hotels in Melbourne. Prior to visiting these properties, I was unfamiliar with the specific concepts that make these luxury Hyatt hotels unique from one another.

After seeing the two properties back-to-back, I realize how distinct these brands are and what experiences they have to offer.

Both hotels are located in the city center. They’re separated by a mere matter of blocks, taking less than ten minutes to walk from one to the other. Yet, in terms of atmosphere, these two hotels might as well be a world apart.

The Park Hyatt is set back in a more secluded location surrounded by carefully manicured gardens, overlooking a gothic revival cathedral. The hotel itself has 240 rooms and incorporates opulent design that throwbacks to the elegance of Victorian architecture.

Embellished by large marble columns, golden statues, and rich mahogany walls, the Park Hyatt’s lobby is enough to leave any visitor in awe upon entry. Illuminated by soft glowing lights, the lobby’s circular layout draws the eye to a grand staircase reminiscent of that from Titanic.

In line with this concept for classical ambiance, visitors convene for high tea in a lounge with views of the hotel’s serene gardens. My recommendation is to make reservations for an evening of dinner and live music in the hotel’s Radii Restaurant. In contrast to the rest of the hotel, this restaurant’s theme is art deco, but its representation as such is equally unique.

Again utilizing the delineation of stairs, this space is a treat for the eyes with a myriad of levels and brightly colored geometric patterns. I found the restaurant’s setting to be evocative of the painting, “Relativity” by M.C. Escher, except in a capacity much less chaotic.

In contrast, the Grand Hyatt reminds visitors they’re in the center of Melbourne, placing them in the thick of this lively, thriving metropolis. Located in the Central Business District, this hotel greets the skyline in the form of a sleek skyscraper. The semblance is animated, reflecting the hustle and bustle of urban life, yet exclusive.

Stunning glass fixtures adorn the Grand Hyatt’s lobby, which complements the hotel’s modern interior design. In all the ways the Park Hyatt is thematically circular, the Grand Hyatt utilizes quadrilateral themes and fixtures to capture an atmosphere that’s notably contemporary and chic.

With 550 rooms and suites, the Grand Hyatt is more than twice as large as its sister hotel, the Park Hyatt, down the street. Well known throughout Melbourne for its wood-fired pizza, the Collins Kitchen is steps from the lobby, providing a tasteful setting for both dinners and luncheons.

This signature restaurant’s extensive wine list pays homage to the vineyards of Australia with additional options for bottles imported from France and New Zealand. The most steadfast oenophiles may want to consider planning their stay around Melbourne’s annual Food and Wine Festival, which will take place March 16-25, 2019.

In essence, the most significant contrast between these two Melbourne Hyatt hotels is present in their architecture and overall ambiance. While equally luxurious, the Park Hyatt is ideal for guests who prefer hotels that emanate a subdued sense of tranquility and quiet. It’s also for those who appreciate the sophistication that comes with the air of traditional designs and gilded décor.

The Grand Hyatt, on the other hand, is for those who prefer to stay in hotels that feel prominently swank and stylishly modish. What’s more is this property fits guests who enjoy the excitement of the city with a desire to be central to all of the action.