Melbourne has always been the mistress of surprise, and our latest discovery, the AC Hotel by Marriott Melbourne Southbank, is a testament to the city’s ability to seamlessly blend culture with cutting-edge design. It’s the brand’s Australian debut, and this Spanish-rooted lifestyle haven promises “everything you need, and nothing you don’t.” They deliver on that minimalist promise, and then some.
History & Heritage: From Spain to Southbank
The AC Hotels brand is the brainchild of renowned Spanish hotelier Antonio Catalán, who founded the concept back in 1998 with a vision for timeless hotels defined by a distinct “European feel” and an appreciation for their urban locale. It was an exercise in perfectly precise design, stripping away the superfluous to leave only what truly matters for the discerning traveller. In 2011, a joint venture with Marriott International launched the brand onto the global stage, allowing its ethos to travel the world.
The Melbourne property, which opened in 2022, represents a new chapter — Australia’s very-first AC Hotel. Designed by local firm DKO Architecture, it’s a striking, angular structure that stands as a beacon in Southbank, capturing the city’s industrial past and cosmopolitan future. It’s a beautiful fusion: the clean lines and meticulous design of its Spanish heritage, blended with an unmistakably Melbourne aesthetic of warm, textured timber and subtle industrial accents.
The Stay: Design, Details, and the Signature G&T
Stepping into the AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank, the design speaks for itself. The lobby — or as the brand prefers, the communal “AC Lounge” — is on Level 7, immediately granting guests an impressive city view. We stayed at the Signature Suite, which is a masterclass in uncluttered luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame a cinematic vista of the city skyline, complete with a pair of binoculars on the desk — a thoughtful, charming detail that encourages the resident to pause and appreciate the view.
On Level 6, there’s The Infinity Pool, a heated outdoor pool that appears to spill right into the cityscape.
Then there’s Sorolla restaurant and Bar Triana, which brings the soul of Spain to the heart of Melbourne.
The tapas-inspired menu is fresh and refined, but the star is undoubtedly the Gin & Tonic Happy Hour in Bar Triana. A bartender wheels a cart laden with premium gins, tonics, and fresh garnishes for a complimentary tasting ritual — an excellent way to begin any evening. The bar also has their own signature ACGT, served in a custom glass designed to heighten the aroma.
Location, Location: A Gateway to Melbourne’s Best
The AC Hotel’s location in Southbank is perhaps its greatest asset. Situated just across the Yarra River from the bustling CBD, it offers a tranquil retreat without sacrificing accessibility. The brief walk to the city’s centre is invigorating, but the hotel’s immediate surrounds are a destination in themselves.
The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is just a stone’s throw away, making it an ideal base for business travellers. As for a night of world-class performances, the Malthouse Theatre, Melbourne Recital Centre, and Southbank Theatre are all within easy reach.
A short stroll takes you to the DFO South Wharf for designer bargains, and the glittering lights of the Crown Entertainment Complex, complete with its famous casino and high-end dining, is a must-see in the evening.
For an educational change of pace, the historic sailing ship Polly Woodside and the Melbourne Maritime Museum are nearby, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s port past.
The immediate area is vibrant but calmer than the city centre, a perfect balance for exploration and relaxation.
Rowland Group.
The AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank is more than a place to lay your head at the end of a day; it’s a beautifully curated experience that blends European style with Melbourne’s energetic spirit. It’s a sophisticated haven for the urban explorer who values intention, design, and a perfectly mixed cocktail at all hours of the night.
AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank is located at 201 Normanby Road. Visit marriott.com to book a room and discover more.
