Favourite bits.
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The story of the estate. São Lourenço do Barrocal has been in the same family for more than 200 years, and it was José António Uva (who is eight generation of the same family) who had a vision to turn the family property into a farm retreat he could share with others. The passion and dedication behind José António’s dream, and what he has created, is incredibly inspiring.
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The interiors. Perfectly simple and calming. The interior design was led by José António’s wife Ana’s design studio, AnahoryAlmeida (also responsible for the interiors of many of Lisbon’s finest restaurants) and it is a dream.
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Hortelão, their outdoor restaurant. The most beautiful place to dine between Spring through Autumn, this slow-food, farm to fork restaurant is located next to the pool, right by the organic kitchen garden, and is the perfect place to enjoy a dinner under the stars.
United Places
Botanic Gardens
UNITED PLACES BOTANIC GARDENS
MELBOURNE, VICTORIA • BOUTIQUE HOTEL
To me, this is Melbourne's best hotel. Thoughtful, considered, and luxurious without being fancy. This beautiful design hotel can be found in the middle of Melbourne's very pretty and leafy South Yarra, which makes for a perfect base for Melbourne exploring. The location is extraordinary - right across the road from the Botanic Gardens - and just a short hop, skip and a jump into the National Gallery of Victoria and the city centre.
United Places is a very refined boutique hotel (almost home-hotel) experience. The check-in process is friendly and relaxed, with the focus being on offering guests a personalised concierge service and lovely guest experience.
The design is incredibly thoughtful and considered. Contemporary in style, you will find a perfect mix of Italian marble, deep coloured velvet (I'm obsessed with the amazing velvet sofas by Patricia Urquiola), beautiful wooden floors, and lush linens.
With only 12 suites, this is a quiet, intimate, and perfectly private accommodation experience. And as a result, this is the first place I recommend to friends and clients when I am asked for a Melbourne hotel recommendation. I don't think anything else in Melbourne compares.
Also, Scott Pickett’s Matilda 159 restaurant is right next door, and it is from Matilda that guests get their breakfast prepared and delivered each morning, and guests of United Places also get preferential reservations, or you can opt for in-room dining instead. Perfecto.
Why I love it
I love many things about United Places (clearly!). I love (and recommend) the 'Garden Suite Two Bedroom' for its super spacious floorplan, floor to ceiling windows, private balcony, and the best bit - the deep soak bath - from which you can enjoy beautiful views out to the Botanic Gardens. It's heaven.
I love the interiors (especially that sofa!!) and the Le Labo bath products.
Other standout features: The thoughtfully curated mini bar of delicious local products is such a treat as well, the concierge service, and the option to request in-suite room service from Scott Picket's Matilda 159 restaurant just next door.
Lastly, I love the closeness to the stunning Botanic Gardens (and the famed "tan" running track, if you feel like getting active - it's a lovely 3.8km track around the perimeter of the gardens), and the NGV as well (a must visit).
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About the owners
Local Melbourne couple Darren Rubenstein and Jo Rogers are the owners of United Places Botanic Gardens. The idea for creating this hotel experience came about from their extensive travels and a passion to set the stage high for a truly exceptional Melbourne destination.
By bringing together the best creatives and collaborators they have been able to redefine the local luxury boutique hotel experience, combining bespoke elegance, personalised service and a commitment to sustainable travel - reflecting their own personal integrity and thoughtfulness.
What to do nearby
Walk around the tan
Visit the NGV
Book a table
at Cucinetta
What to bring
Bag
Dress
