First look at new Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong, the region’s biggest hotel

Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong opens today, becoming the largest hotel in Geelong and Bellarine region. Take a first look inside.

Holiday Inn and Suites Geelong has finally opened.

Geelong’s long-awaited Holiday Inn and Suites has finally opened, with guests now able to stay at the hotel

The 180-room hotel, at 40 Ryrie St, is Geelong’s first major new build hotel in 20 years.

It is also the anchor tenant of Geelong Quarter, a $200m mixed-used development by Franzé Developments.

The hotel, which opened on Friday, includes 23 suites, a heated pool, a gym, a cafe, a bar, and meeting and event space.

The hotel’s restaurant, Maestro, by renowned celebrity chef Adrian Richardson, also opened.

Mr Richardson and executive chef Migo Razon said they designed the menu to showcase some of the region’s best local produce, such as duck sourced from the Moorabool Valley, freshly baked bread from La Madre bakery, and local wines and beers.

Homemade pasta will also be on offer.

The hotel’s general manager, Daniel Payne, said the hotel would be a hub for both locals and guests to the region, and would cater to families, corporate travellers and business event delegates.

“As the newest and largest hotel in Geelong, our presence underscores the city’s commitment to growth and progress, attracting a new generation of guests with the introduction of the world’s largest brand family, and bringing 68 jobs to boost the local economy,” said Mr Payne.

Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine executive director Tracy Carter said the hotel would be a drawcard for tourists and business visitors.

“Over the next 10 years, visitation to Geelong and The Bellarine is expected to reach 13.6 million visit days, injecting up to $2.1bn into the local economy,” Ms Carter said.

“We are delighted that the 180-key property will add to the region’s room stock, supporting our target of achieving an additional 2200 rooms by 2032 to meet demand.”

Originally published as First look at new Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong, the region’s biggest hotel