A good bed to sleep in can make or break a holiday. Fortunately, the new Doubletree By Hilton in Wellington has more than enough to spread around the Capital!
If you're seeking somewhere central to stay in Wellington, you've gotta check out the Doubletree By Hilton, which I was fortunate enough to stay at a few weeks ago (helped by my right-hand-main-man-Matt).
Located on the corner of Lambton Quay and Grey Street, this newly opening slice to art-deco magic has stolen my heart as a place I'll be recommending all my friends and family stay when they come to town.
When I first heard that The Hilton was opening in Wellington, I imagined a big, new, white ice cube like the Auckland Hilton at the Viaduct. I certainly didn't expect the characterful and cheerfully atmospheric establishment which has the feel that it's been here forever. That's because Doubletree by Hilton is the more boutique brand owned by the company (one of many) and this particular one in the franchise is owned by some local Kiwis.
The hotel occupies the space that was formerly an old insurance office. Many of the original features have been retained or enhanced, keeping the old 1930's feeling of the building's exterior and interior, with a modern twist. Brass, marble, pale greens and greys with impressive art adorning the walls make this space feel like you're about to see Hercule Poirot stroll down the stairs in spats.
The Doubletree by Hilton is a perfect place to stay for working business folk and couples seeking an intimate getaway. Compact, well considered and with a beautiful urban atmosphere, Matt and I felt right at home! The hotel is incredibly central and Matt and I gasped as we walked out onto the street and were immediately on the Golden Mile. Even though I've lived in Wellington for so long, it made me feel like a tourist in my own town. It felt natural to go and do a little shopping at David Jones and to stop for a coffee.
The rooms at Doubletree by Hilton carry the 1930's 'Agatha Christie Detective Novel' feeling through into the boudoir. The most impressive thing was the high stud ceiling which made the rooms feel large and spacious, even though they are in a reasonably small sized hotel compared to many. We were treated to not one, but two TV's, a little lounge area and the most luxurious bathroom with a huge tub. I immediately popped in it for a soak and was not disappointed. The shower and loo proved equally satisfactory. However, the crowning glory has to be the seriously soft bed in the rooms at Doubletree by Hilton. I don't know what witchcraft they employ to make them so comfortable, but it was one of the best we've ever slept in.
Finally, Spring restaurant must be visited if you ever stay at Doubletree by Hilton. While we had a family dinner on the night we stayed (my brothers), we did pop in for a drink and cheese and grapes. The service and beverages were great and we even got tips on our upcoming visit to Italy from the Italian Maitre'd. The next morning, we fully splashed out on a big breakfast. I ordered pancakes and Matt went mad with the buffet. The sun streamed in from the CBD and we were given plenty of tea and coffee. Finally, we had a poke around the building to see more of the many brass and art-deco features. My art/history nerd loved it!
The Doubletree by Hilton is one of the coolest, atmospheric and well-serviced spots in Wellington and has the best location hands-down. While I was fortunate enough to be a guest of the hotel, I very much hope to return soon and will be encouraging everyone and anyone to stay.
