Neighbourhood
Located on the outskirts of the CBD, charming South Yarra is an entrée to the heart of Melbourne’s dynamic city centre where historic Gothic architecture sits alongside the vibrant arts precinct, landmark sporting venues and an eclectic array of restaurants and hidden bars.
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Just across Domain Road is Melbourne’s natural treasure, the Royal Botanic Gardens. Frequented by almost 2 million visitors every year, these extensive 36-hectare gardens are filled with gentle walks and soothing discoveries. Two cafés – Shannon Bennett’s French-Vietnamese Jardin Tan at the Melbourne Observatory, and The Terrace beside the lake – provides perfect rest stop.
Address
Birdwood Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
Getting There
200m and approximately 2 minute to walk from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
The Tan
Melbourne’s most popular running track, lies just across the road from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens. Looping around the Royal Botanic Gardens, the wide 3.8km track is traditionally taken in a clockwise direction. Enjoy a gentle descent along Birdwood Avenue towards the city before circling back along the Yarra River and Alexandra Avenue.
Address
Birdwood Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
Getting There
200m and approximately 2 minute to walk from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
National Gallery of Victoria
Australia’s most visited art museum sprawls over two venues. The entrance to NGV International, architect Sir Roy Grounds’ monumental St Kilda Road edifice, is marked by the famous moat and circular water wall. Whether it’s dynastic China or ancient Greece, Rembrandt or Hockney, Hogarth or Warhol, the depth of the NGV’s holdings almost guarantees a moving encounter with art.
Address
180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
Getting There
2.1km and approximately 20 minute to walk or 5 minutes by car from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
Sporting Precinct and Surrounds
South Yarra and the surrounding Yarra River precinct is home to meandering river trails flanked by spectacular gardens and iconic sporting stadiums. With a backdrop to the CBD beyond and within walking distance from United Places Botanic Gardens, discover the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Across Olympic Boulevard is Rod Laver Arena, home of the Australian Open – the first Grand Slam tennis tournament of the calendar year.
Address
Getting There
1.8km and approximately 15 minute to walk or 4 minutes by car from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
Sidney Myer Music Bowl
Part of Kings Domain, which also includes the Shrine of Remembrance and Government House, the beloved Sidney Myer Music Bowl is the largest permanent outdoor performance venue in Australia. Its tensile canopy was an engineering feat when it opened in 1959 and its seating easily caters for 2000 people, with a casual 11,000 more spread out across the lawn.
Address
Kings Domain Gardens, Melbourne, 3000
Getting There
1.6km and approximately 18 minute from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
France-Soir
To many locals, France-Soir epitomises South Yarra. The French bistro has been a benchmark for culinary excellence since it opened over 30 years ago. The renowned menu changes with the seasons but stalwarts such as steak of the highest quality, perfect salty fries and escargots in garlic butter will always endure. The France-Soir carte also features a legendary wine list, mainly but not exclusively French and with something at every price point, for everyday dining or the grandest of occasions.
Address
11 Toorak Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
Getting There
950m and approximately 12 minute to walk or 3 minutes by car from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
Gilson
After conquering Melbourne’s breakfast and brunch landscape with Mammoth in Armadale and Touchwood in Richmond, couple Loren and Jamie McBride have now made their mark with Gilson, an all-day dining affair. The menu moves from popular breakfast selections through to Mediterranean-influenced lunches and dinner, including wood-fired pizzas, roast chicken and seasonal fruit desserts.
Address
171 Domain Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
Getting There
50m and approximately 1 minute to walk from United Places Hotel Botanic Gardens
