The Queenscliff Hotel, 1888
History
In the late 19th century, Queenscliff, a quiet fishing village, became a fashionable seaside resort, with travellers taking the two-hour journey from Melbourne on the paddle steamer, Ozone. The Queenscliff Hotel was also a destination in its own right. Remarkably, it was built in just a year, completed in 1888 for its first custodians Martha Nugent and Joseph Goslin.
Designed by renowned architects Reed, Henderson and Smart, and built by Frogley. N and Robson and Sons, The Queenscliff Hotel is of architectural and social significance to Victoria. An impressive example of Australian Queen Anne-style architecture, the most striking feature is its polygonal viewing tower, reflecting Northern European Renaissance architecture with a coned roof, Dutch gables and bellcast profile. Painstakingly restored to its original design and purpose, visitors can once again admire sweeping views from the tower across Port Phillip Bay.
The hotel is also architecturally significant as an extraordinary example of work by the highly successful Melbourne architectural firm, Reed, Henderson & Smart, responsible for many of Melbourne’s most notable heritage landmarks, including the Royal Exhibition Building and the State Library of Victoria.
Over the years, the hotel had multiple custodians. In 1978, the late Mietta O’Donnell returned the hotel back to a stylish destination, along with her sisters and partner Tony Knox. She brought Mietta’s Restaurant in Melbourne to The Queenscliff Hotel - and fittingly, the hotel has retained ‘Mietta’s’ as a fine dining experience, now led by Executive Chef Salvatore Giorgio.
From 2015, The Queenscliff Hotel sat idle, until in 2022, current custodians Rob and Tammy Charter purchased the hotel, embarking on a three-year restoration journey in close consultation with Heritage Victoria and the Borough of Queenscliffe. A work of art, delight in admiring original tessellated tiles, stunning stained glass windows and doors, soaring ceilings with elaborate cornicework, multiple ornate fireplaces, lacework verandahs, and historical staircase leading to the turreted viewing tower.
A celebration of this richly storied seaside town, The Queenscliff Hotel now stands as a lasting legacy, where history and luxury meet.
Accommodation
12 Suites — Families Welcome — Pet Friendly — Accessible
A small luxury hotel experience and truly boutique, The Queenscliff Hotel features just 12 beautifully-appointed suites (five King and seven Queen), including a wheelchair-accessible suite, and a suite designed for ambulant needs. The Beach She Oak Suite and the Coconut Palm Suite are both pet-friendly - and there’s even a complimentary on-site dog wash station, perfect for after long walks along the beach. Some suites can be adjoined to create an exclusive two-bedroom retreat, offering additional space and privacy. Children of all ages are welcome, and cots are available upon request.
Each suite has been individually designed, with contemporary designer furnishings, bespoke Melbourne-made light fixtures, sumptuous bedding, automatic blinds, Samsung The Frame Smart TVs, stunning marble accents, and a collection of original artwork by Bellarine Peninsula artists that are also available to purchase. Upon arrival, enjoy a complimentary non-alcoholic beverage from your in-suite minibar, before heading down to The Conservatory’s courtyard for laid-back gourmet fare.
Many suites showcase heritage-listed details, including original fireplaces and access to the iconic verandah. Each ensuite bathroom has been fitted with floor-to-ceiling marble and bronze tapware, with Melbourne-based MOR bath & body products provided for guests.
Ease into the day with a complimentary breakfast, and take your coffee out onto the verandah to enjoy the morning sunshine and breathe in the fresh sea air. Be sure to return to the verandah at sunset with a bottle of sparkling to take in the magical views over Princess Park and Port Phillip Bay.
Spend the afternoon playing board games or catching up on work in the Guest Lounge, with Cafe 1888 providing barista coffee and freshly-baked pastries. As evening approaches, head to The Boat Bar for an early cocktail, before enjoying an unforgettable fine dining experience at Mietta’s.
Exclusive Offer
Book direct and use code HISTORICSTAYS to receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine as part of your stay.
Special Features
Pet Friendly
Heritage Listed
Fine Dining
Guest Lounge
Things To Do
A well-preserved historic town, wander Queenscliffe’s charming streets and admire beautiful 19th-century architecture, historic hotels, and boutique shops. The Queenscliff Community Market showcases local produce, artisanal treats, and handmade crafts, offering a true taste of the region.
Visit the Queenscliff Fort & Museum and explore underground tunnels, historic gun emplacements, and engaging exhibitions that bring the town’s maritime history to life. At the Queenscliff Maritime Museum, you can dive deeper into the region’s seafaring past - from shipwrecks to local fishing heritage.
Hop aboard a heritage steam train on the Bellarine Railway, for a scenic ride between Queenscliff and Drysdale, perfect for families or those who love a touch of nostalgia. The Queenscliff Lighthouse is a true icon of the Bellarine Peninsula - take in panoramic coastal views and snap a photo with this historic landmark.
Swan Bay & Wetlands is ideal for birdwatching, kayaking, or a simply peaceful stroll along the tranquil waters of this protected bay. Watch the boats glide in at Queenscliff Harbour, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply soak up the relaxed coastal feel. On sunny days, relax on the sandy shores of Port Phillip Bay Beaches - take a swim, or enjoy water sports with stunning bay views as your backdrop.
Just a short drive away are Bellarine Peninsula’s wineries, where you can sample exceptional cool-climate wines and enjoy vineyard vistas. Click here for a full list and plan your perfect Queenscliff day trip.
All images Neisha Breen Photography
