The entrance to The Lyall. Photo / The Lyall
Melbourne calm and European charm are all wrapped up at The Lyall, writes Rebecca Foreman.
Location:
Tucked away on a tranquil, tree-lined street like Melbourne’s best-kept secret, The Lyall isn’t just a hotel, it’s a little nod to Paris. Think plush boutique suites with balconies, designer flourishes and sleek finishing touches. It’s the kind of place where you could linger longer, fall in love and finally understand the magic of boutique living done right.
Perfect for:
The Lyall is a magnet for those who appreciate quiet luxury with zero fanfare. It’s ideal for those looking to switch off (without dropping standards), privacy-lovers who prefer low-key over flashy, and food-focused travellers who want posh nosh without crossing the city.
First Impressions
Stepping into The Lyall feels like slipping into a well-kept secret, one that whispers elegance rather than shouts it. Fresh from its four-year makeover (thanks to Covid), this South Yarra gem walks the line between sophisticated minimalism and inviting warmth. The entrance is serene, the styling refined without ever trying too hard, and there’s an immediate sense you’ve arrived somewhere quietly exceptional.
There’s no lobby chaos or check-in theatrics, just calm, leafy views and interiors that wrap around you like a cashmere throw. It’s the kind of place where the staff greet you like an old friend, and every detail, from the fresh florals to gallery-worthy art, feels intentionally placed. Behind the reception desk, the attentive team seem genuinely interested in making your stay seamless.
The Room:
We booked into an Executive Room and a Classic Twin for the kids, both oozed charm and quiet luxury. Our room was spacious, with a king bed dressed in white linen, walk-in wardrobe, plus a well-equipped kitchenette featuring a microwave, mini-bar, fridge, coffee machine and curated tea selection. The minibar was delightful stocking Chappy’s Chips, Cuvee Soleo chocolates and Mojito gummies with Taittinger champagne, premium wines, spirits, brews, and CAPI soft drinks. One thoughtful upgrade? A few elevated non-alcoholic options for those living the zero-proof life.
Bathroom:
The marble bathroom was an instant win, complete with dual basins, a deep soaking tub, complimentary bath salts and a rainfall shower.
Thoughtful touches elevated the experience: velour Marco Polo bathrobes, slippers, Molton Brown toiletries throughout, and … a separate toilet. (Why don’t more hotels do this?) My only tiny gripe? A sea of little plastic bottles. A switch to larger, refillable options would give a welcome nod to sustainability.
The Facilities:
With 51 rooms and suites, the vibe is sophisticated comfort, think handcrafted furniture, plush fabrics, and balconies with Japanese maple garden views plus that breath of fresh South Yarra air. Inside, you’ll find thoughtful touches like Nespresso machines, luxe bathrobes, high-speed Wi-Fi, and smart TVs ready for a night in. There’s 24-hour service if you need anything – if you want a gym workout, the Front desk will organise a gym pass at sister hotel, The Royce, down the road.
Food & Drink:
Breakfast until 1pm? Yes please. From pastries to pancakes, homemade granola and eggs any way you like, there’s something for every craving. We went for eggs paired with barista coffee. The lunch menu keeps it classic: a warming soup, salads, the signature Lyall Club Sandwich, a pasta special and a burger with sides.
After dark, there’s a small but tasty After Hours menu available via the bar or in-room.
For more serious dining, Toorak Rd is right on your doorstep with Melbourne’s best just a short stroll away. But if you’d rather cocoon in your robe, The Lyall gives you full permission to Uber Eats and stay cosy.
In the Neighbourhood:
Just a stone’s throw from The Lyall, Toorak Rd serves up everything you could possibly crave, coffee, cocktails, couture and conversation. Food-wise, you’re spoilt for choice: France-Soir, Cosi Bar & Ristorante or K-flavour at Charm, while the bar scene hums after dark, offering the perfect excuse to linger longer.
For retail therapy, South Yarra has you covered. Whether you’re hunting down a statement gown or simply indulging in a little boutique browsing, Medwin is a local fashion institution for custom couture. For wellness, dip into the newly opened Soak Bathhouse nearby, or take it up a notch with a quick Uber to Calma Day Spa in Armadale, where a soul-restoring pranic healing session with Natalie Rushton will elevate your Melbourne escape.
Accessibility:
The Lyall offers one dedicated Accessible Room that features wider doorways, a roll-in shower, grab rails and lowered fittings.
Price:
A Classic room at The Lyall starts at $335; breakfast is an additional cost.
The writer stayed courtesy of The Lyall Hotel.