Grand lady secures top gong

THE Australian Hotels Association National Awards for Excellence 2023 has named the Portarlington Grand Hotel as Best Redeveloped Hotel in Australia.

The hotel reopened in December 2021 following a multi-million-dollar renovation, with 18 boutique rooms and several refurbished dining spaces.

In 2019, Paul Little, chair and founder of Little Group, purchased the historic hotel.

“A good town deserves a good pub, and a good pub helps make a good town,” Mr Little said.

“The original building has be restored with a magnificence that draws you in.”

“Then there’s the big atrium bar terraced in three zones all modern with light, recycled timbers and seventies-inspired colours that capture the holiday feel loved by generations.”

Originally built in 1888, the new Grand Hotel aims to evoke a bygone era where beach-seeking holidaymakers would arrive via paddle steamer.

Portarlington Grand Hotel general manager Greg Amor said the award was testament to what the new owners of the hotel set out to achieve when they purchased the site in 2019.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this award.

“When the hotel was first acquired by the Little Group, the team set out to create a space that preserved the grand history of the location, whilst developing a welcoming space that catered to both locals and tourists.

“This award, in addition to the positive sentiment we continue to receive, demonstrates how we have successfully turned this grand dame into a space that is enjoyed

by many.

“In addition to being a hub where locals can meet, drink and eat, the venue also contributes to the local visitor economy, bringing guests directly to Portarlington via Port Phillip Ferries.”

Melbourne-based architects Technē Architecture + Interior Design led the redevelopment.