There’s a hotel in downtown Perth that has a bright maroon exterior with all the ornate trimmings you could imagine. The bold wooden doors and the flower buckets on the outside of the windows scream Europe to anyone that passes, and the awning will let you know that this hotel is one of Swedish elegance.
It’s Miss Maud Hotel, an iconic piece of Perth since 1973 and a truly unique place to call home while on a holiday in Western Australia as I recently got to discover for myself.
Before my arrival, I must say that I was already looking forward to my stay, especially when I found out that each night you stayed you were given access to a full-on Swedish-style smorgasbord breakfast in their adjoined restaurant – one that is quite heavily stocked with certain baked goods from their also quite popular Miss Maud Pastry House. It’s perks like these that could turn a normal stay into something unforgettable.
First impressions of Miss Maud do not disappoint. As I rounded the corner to the hotel and saw it in all its brilliance from down the street, I knew that it was going to be a little bit special and luxurious. The lobby is adorned in Swedish country attire, from the landscape artwork on the walls to the flamboyant patterns on the carpet. Even the uniforms of those working there had to fit the vibe, so you truly feel as though you’ve walked into another part of the world with that first step indoors.
Once checked in, you will have the option of walking up the stairs or taking an old-fashioned elevator to the level of your room. Then the fun of finding your room begins. Are you staying in Lappland or Finland? The rooms are named for the different areas and regions of Sweden and Europe, which makes it even more of a journey across the world.
My Lappland room was decked out in luxurious curtains, nice furniture, a flat screen TV on the wall and of course a gigantic queen bed. The first thing I did? That would have to have been kick off my shoes and sprawl myself out on that giant bed. After a morning of walking around town, there is nothing better than taking the weight off your feet (followed by a hot shower).
The room is comfortable; there’s just no other way to put it. From the body-sized towels to the mini-bar (with reasonably priced goodies), I was happy with it.
And did I mention the room service? There is a menu of both traditional and hearty Swedish meals to choose from and have delivered to your room, and the portions are well worth the price. I recommend the lasagna – it was fantastic.
When the morning comes, you better bring an appetite. The price of your room includes an all-you-can-eat Swedish smorgasbord breakfast that will make you get up and grab more. There are bottomless cups of coffee and tea, pastries, fresh fruit and rolls. On the hot side there are eggs, bacon, sausage and pancakes, and this is just a few of the options. So, don’t worry about being choosy, just choose something and get to eating because you can always go back for more.
Of course, the restaurant is open for all meals, and there are lunch and dinner smorgasbords to have your fill at, but it just won’t be complimentary like breakfast.
Miss Maud Hotel has 52 rooms available for booking in either standard or superior levels (single, twin and queen). Each room has FOXTEL, wireless Internet, coffee and tea facilities and a minibar within. The Superior Queen rooms also have the option of a balcony for an extra $10.
The hotel is conveniently located at just a 5 minute walk to the Perth train station and a shopping strip lined with cafes and restaurants.
I found the hotel not only convenient but also comfortable. If you’ll be doing a lot of walking or outdoor activities, I can’t think of a better type of hotel to come back to in the evening to unwind. Simply order room service, and a chocolate crème puff for dessert, and you’ll be instantly cured of the tiredness that might ail you.
Miss Maud Hotel is a retreat in Perth. If you think you’d like the feel of an old and elegant hotel, one with creaky floorboards to back up the claim of aged appeal, then a stay at this Swedish accommodation should be placed at the top of your list.
Prev|Next
