Mornington Peninsula institution Hotel Sorrento has had a refresh — its biggest to date in its 150-year history. This December, the hotel will open a 30-metre pool, day spa and 13 new suites, each with a balcony and outdoor marble bath.
Established in 1872, the property was the first commercial business in Sorrento. Today, it’s a third-generation family business with Rob and Anne Pitt’s three children — Bridget, Myles and Marcus — all involved in its operations.
In addition to the accommodation and spa, the property also includes four bars, Front Bar, Rooftop, Salt and The Lawn, two restaurants, Shihuishi and the Dining Room, private dining areas and conference facilities.
“The vision was to transform the hotel into a resort,” says Bridget Bailey, the hotel’s finance director. “Being in such a beautiful part of the world, nature has played a big part in the design look and feel, utilising natural materials like travertine, bluestone and timber, where possible. Limestone uncovered during excavation was used as a feature stone in the spa.”
Bailey describes the new development as an extension and continuation of the original hotel. The areas were designed by Six Degrees Architecture and Jack Merlo landscape architects, with interiors by Jardan. Inspiration for the new look was drawn from the ocean and peninsula landscape.
The new 30-metre lap pool is set among travertine walls, dotted with custom sun loungers and surrounded by olive trees. Guests are invited to enjoy the sunset over Port Phillip Bay here with a cocktail or wine in hand or partake in yoga in the mornings.
A few steps away from the pool, via a Japanese design-inspired courtyard, guests will find the new Marlo Spa. Here, guests will be able to book holistic services like massages, facials, Ayurvedic treatments and ‘fire and ice’ treatments.
Finally, the 13 Sunset Suites are equipped with gas-log fireplaces and private balconies overlooking the pool, as well as large windows that take in views of native gums, the bay and, to the west, the sunset.
The suites are in addition to the existing Hotel Sorrento accommodation, which also underwent a refurb. All are stocked with Hunter Lab skin products.
“The ideal Hotel Sorrento guest is seeking a balance of respite and joy,” says Bailey. “While the hotel and wellness facilities offer a chance to unwind, the dining and drinking spaces allow guests to kick back and have some fun.”
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