By Ian Neubauer

The InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) is gearing up to unveil its new flagship Australian property — The Rialto — following a $60 million refurbishment that has transformed the iconic heritage-listed property into one of the city’s most decadent hotels. 

The Rialto Hotel in Melbourne will open mid-December

Bookings are now being taken for accommodation, meetings, conferences and events at what will be the only 5-star hotel in Melbourne’s financial district.

The Rialto’s rich history shines through its dedicated meeting and event spaces, which range from intimate boardrooms and breakout spaces through to a ballroom catering for up to 300.

They will be supported by a variety of additional facilities, five-star dining establishments, bars, themed catering services, Club InterContinental overlooking Collins Street and a unique suite collection that takes advantage of the building’s Gothic heritage.

“This revitalised hotel will be one of the best in the country and a flagship example of the InterContinental brand,” said InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto general manager, Manrique Rodriguez.

“It is our genuine interest in our guests that stands the InterContinental brand apart. Our philosophy is to open up each destination to our guests, making available the authentic local experiences that will enrich their stay and make it memorable.”

The Rialto joins a global collection of heritage-listed InterContinental hotels and resorts, including InterContinental Le Grand Paris, InterContinental The Willard Washington and InterContinental Sydney.

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is open for bookings from mid-December, with rooms available from $495. Event spaces and services will be available from January next year.

For more information or a quote on meetings and events, email icmelbourne@ihg.com.