HERITAGE REVIVAL: Queenscliff Hotel set to re-open as day spa business

QUEENSCLIFF Hotel is set to be brought back to life as a hotel, restaurant and day spa business with work to start next year, after the famous property changed hands this month following a seven-month campaign.

A local real estate agency sealed the deal for the historic Gellibrand Street site that was first advertised for sale in May.

The 1887 site has been closed since 2015 but retains a liquor license and refurbishment plans with approval from heritage authorities, heightening hopes of an imminent reopening.

The final price and identity of the new owner were undisclosed, but Kerleys Coastal Real Estate managing director Damian Cayzer said the buyer was “from interstate and has ties back to the Geelong region”.

But Mr Cayzer revealed the buyer intended to begin adding new touches to the property next year, with a view to opening a new business at the historic site.

“The buyer will restore and renovate the building to its former glory, in accordance with the Heritage Victoria approved and architect designed plans, which is fantastic news for Queenscliff and the greater Geelong region,” he said.

“The project of restoration and renovation is likely to commence in 2023 and when completed, the Queenscliff Hotel will reopen as a boutique hotel, restaurant, day spa and accommodation facility.”

The Heritage Victoria-approved plans allow the new owner to expand the restaurant and bar offering, a private rear courtyard and the day spa and boutique accommodation business.

The property will retain its characteristic Victorian-era features and its 16 hotel rooms, dining room, manager’s apartment, library and sitting rooms.

The landmark is one of the town’s most prominent and recognisable buildings, opposite Princess Park in one of Queenscliff’s most attractive locations.

CBRE Hotels and Kerleys jointly ran the selling campaign this year, with the hospitality experts spruiking the rare opportunity to buy in the Queenscliff commercial precinct.

“The Queenscliff Hotel is one of Bellarine Peninsula’s most ornate properties and combines a rich history with unique potential,” CBRE’s Scott Callow said.

“It offers a new owner the opportunity to acquire one of Queenscliff’s most recognised buildings, which happens to occupy one of the most attractive locations in the township.”

Meanwhile, Kerleys Auctions has also announced it will sell the contents of the hotel following the transaction, with a unique collection of antiques and decorative goods to be up for grabs.

The auction is set to be online on January 15, with more information to come in the new year.