Overview
If you're planning an escape (or ten) to the Bellarine Peninsula this summer, you'll find a luxe new wining, dining and accommodation option in the newly revamped Portarlington Grand Hotel. It's set to reopen this summer off the back of a hefty multimillion-dollar makeover, boasting 18 boutique hotel rooms, along with a brand-new bistro, bar and beer garden.
With more than 130 years under its belt, the historic Portarlington pub was taken over earlier this year by The Little Group, which also operates Port Phillip Ferries. The extensive, nine-month transformation with the help of Melbourne-based architects Technē (The Espy, Village Belle Hotel) pays respect to the building's heritage detailing, while also celebrating a touch of modern luxury.
Housed across two levels, you'll find the hotel rooms decked out with ornamental fireplaces and luxurious furnishings, while both the facade and the majestic staircase have been carefully restored in a nod to eras past.
One of the hotel's new bay-view rooms
Day-trippers and hotel guests alike will be able to take advantage of four onsite dining spaces, where local ingredients and booze take centre stage. The Bistro is where you'll head to tuck into some classic pub fare and seafood dishes, while the elegant Front Bar is set to focus on snacks and cocktails.
Three-tiered beer garden the Atrium will feature sweeping bay views and a menu of wood-fired pizzas cooked in an outdoor oven. And the expansive, dog-friendly Lawn, dotted with umbrellaed picnic tables, is where you'll be able to enjoy the full bistro menu, in a sunny al fresco setting.
Best of all, the new-look pub is a breeze to get to — a 70-minute ferry ride from Docklands lands you at Portarlington Pier, which is just a quick stroll from the front door. What's more, the pub will have a special bell that rings 30 minutes before each ferry departure back to the city, so you can time your last drink to make sure you don't miss the boat.
Find the Portarlington Grand Hotel at 76 Newcombe Street, Portarlington, this summer. The hotel rooms will open in January, with overnight rates from $225.