Edwardian elegance on a budget

This week sees the opening of Melbourne Central YHA, a fully restored heritage-graded hostel in central Melbourne.

The five storey building dates back to the Edwardian era and it’s façade has been restored to its former glory while the interior has been extensively renovated to cater for today’s discerning backpackers in an environment that reflects the eclectic culture, style and character that epitomises Melbourne.

The hostel is located in an enviably city central position overlooking the Yarra River in an area earmarked for new shopping and residential development. Guests can choose to stay in private rooms with ornate balconies, live the high life in one of the hostel’s unique rooftop terrace rooms or of course opt for a budget multishare room. Prices start from £15 per person per night.

Melbourne Central YHA also has some fantastic social facilities too. The ground floor houses Bertha Brown’s, a vibrant new Melbourne bar and the rooftop has a barbecue area looking over the city. These combined with a cafe, self catering kitchen, laundry, TV lounge, an internet cafe and a tour desk all make for a memorable stay in Melbourne

A good way to get your bearings when you arrive in the city is to catch the free City Circle Tram which stops outside the hostel and then you can call in at the Neighbours tour office which is next door and book your Neighbours tour where you’ll visit Ramsey Street and see some of the stars of the show.

And in accordance to YHA’s commitment to the environment the hostel features water efficient appliances, energy efficient lighting and insulation plus low-E glass to reduce potential heat loss in winter and gain in summer.

More information can be found at yha.com.au.