If you’re anything like me, the name Movenpick would have you thinking about sweet treats. But the sort of traveller who selects a hotel for a superior experience might wish to take note of Movenpick Hobart. For everyone else, yes, there is chocolate and ice cream.
Movenpick Hobart marks the Swiss brand’s first Australian property, with 221 elegant rooms and suites offering spectacular harbour and city views. Conveniently located in the heart of Hobart’s CBD, Movenpick Hobart towers over the Elizabeth Street bus mall, with no public car access unless you’ve organised valet parking. The upside is shops and attractions on the hotel’s doorstep, with the bustling waterfront and historical Salamanca precinct a short walk away.
In this post:
The room – Deluxe King
The rooms at Movenpick Hobart are all very similar, with the deluxe offering being slightly larger and located on higher floors. Classic rooms don’t provide much to look at, with some backed onto neighbouring buildings.
On arrival, we found a handwritten card, chocolates and sparkling by Tasmanian brand 42 Degrees South.
The room is on the smaller side at 26sqm but feels larger than this thanks to huge floor to ceiling windows.
The view from my room was picturesque, with Constitution Dock, Princes Wharf and Salamanca all in frame.
I loved Movenpick’s modern aesthetic and neutral colours, offset by black accents and contrasting textures. Although I wasn’t a fan of the bright canvas above the bed, it felt a bit random and would be better suited in black and white.
The entry area provided ample storage space for two suitcases plus some hanging items, with the minibar adjacent (rona left this empty). Robes and slippers were provided, as well as amenities for hot drinks.
The bathroom was beautiful and perfectly functional with a great rain shower, but on the small side and lacking in useful storage.
Dining & Drinks – Tesoro
Movenpick’s restaurant Tesoro is a dining destination in its own right. Headed up by Executive Chef Trent Whelan, Tesoro offers a dazzling Italian selection alongside locally inspired signature dishes and an impressive beverage list.
Tesoro’s staff put neighbouring hotels to shame. Everyone we met during our meal was incredibly friendly and accommodating, particularly the down to earth Restaurant and Bar Manager Jozef.
Chocolate Hour
With the brand’s Swiss origins being famous for chocolate, Mövenpick hotels worldwide dedicate one hour every afternoon to all things chocolate. In Hobart, hotel guests can enjoy Chocolate Hour from 4-5pm, with temptations hand-crafted by Executive Chef Trent Whelan.
There are a few packages to chose from, but the primary ‘Sweet Treats’ offer includes a chocolate-infused cocktail alongside a chocolate dish, with items changing daily. The chocolate assortment offered during our visit was good, but my favourite was the affogato to finish, which even came with Movenpick brand ice cream. Although I was expecting more from the experience, it’s something fun and exclusive to the Movenpick brand.
Chef’s Roadtrip
My pick for dinner was the Chef’s Roadtrip menu. Highlights included Tasmanian seafood, mouth-watering crispy pork cheek, 50-day dry-aged Sirloin and panna cotta with prosecco jelly. Maybe it was the media effect or the chocolate hour beforehand, but eleven dishes between two people was certainly a challenge. That said, the food was phenomenal.
For visitors to the state, the Chef’s Roadtrip is a great way to taste your way around Tasmania’s outstanding local produce, not to mention the great value at $89 per person.
Breakfast
No need to wake up early with breakfast served at Tesoro until 4 pm! Guests can make their choice from an à la carte menu, with hot drinks included. At $35 per guest, you’d be better off ordering your pick and paying on the day as most items will run less than that.
The Gym
Movenpick Hobart’s gym is small but functional. From treadmills to ergo-bikes and free weights, there is plenty to keep you on track while travelling.
Summing Up – Movenpick Hobart Conclusion
There is a lot to like about Movenpick Hobart. Beautifully designed, excellent staff and great food is a winning combination and can’t wait to stay again.
Tom stayed as a guest of Movenpick Hobart. Supplementary images courtesy of Movenpick Hobart.
