Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa

Charming boutique hotel occupying the converted 1894 harbormaster’s home overlooking the central Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Five rooms and one suite each have fine water views; a representative second-floor room creates an understated, contemporary feel with a décor of dove gray and mushroom, while a small crystal chandelier adds a baroque note. A wooden balcony is reached through French doors framed by lush raw-silk drapes; the high-ceilinged bath has intriguing leather-grained taupe tiles, a large tub, a stall shower, double vanities and a crocodile-skin side chair. Public areas include an attractive library, a pretty dining room serving an excellent light menu, and a spa in an adjacent sandstone cottage with a well-equipped gym, steam/sauna and two treatment rooms. A lovely garden with an expanse of trimmed lawn and a small, two-level swimming pool creates a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.