Notorious prison turned luxury hotel and lifestyle precinct now open for business
One of Australia’s most notorious prisons that hosted the likes of Ned Kelly and Ronald Ryan is a now a $1 billion luxe hotel and lifestyle precinct.
The 170-year-old bluestone prison that is just 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD now includes a 106-room Adina Apartment Hotel and The Interlude, a 19-room and heritage suite filled wellness retreat within the infamous B Division block.
No longer is this a drab prison: it is a vibrant showcase of the best of Melbourne’s hospitality. It is marked with splashes of vibrant colours, soft furnishings and contemporary artwork.
Cells have been turned into suites or luxurious guest rooms with inspired views.
Guests are greeted by five-star hotel staff.
Some suites feature marble bathrooms with oval-shaped tubs and guests can enjoy designer hair and skincare products and a complimentary minibar that showcases Melbourne’s Northern suburbs products.
There is also a fine food and wine selection.
The centrepiece of The Interlude is the North & Common restaurant. However, in-house bar Olivine, is also a standout with its 500-plus international wine list. Olivine’s wine cellar-like cells are already a big hit.
The Interlude amenities include a subterranean lap pool, Impala-Peacock artisan tea appreciation class, charcoal drawing classes with an in-house Pentridge precinct artist and premium wine tastings.
The former exercise yard is now known as The Reflection Garden where guests can enjoy a wine and cheese.
Suites can be rented from $699 per night.
Jonathan Jackson, 27th July 2023
