Red Carnation Hotels

PRESS ROOM

GT tested

20/04/2007

Arrival/Check-In: We arrived just as a busload of travelers was returning from a day’s excursion and almost got lost in the shuffle. Fortunately, the front desk staff was vigilant and noticed our confusion. They offered to assist us and we were quickly checked in and escorted to our room. It wasn’t until the next morning that we noticed the beautiful glass orb fountain at the entrance to this bold, white hotel at the foot of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. (20/20)

Guest Quarters: Our room was spacious and decorated in light colors with dark wood accents, including some interesting native art. The room had just been redecorated and everything was fresh and perfect. At the foot of the whiteduveted bed, a long white couch graced the sunken lounge area and faced the Atlantic through huge floor-to-ceiling windows. A private balcony was outside and it was tempting to stop and watch the ocean undulate below, but it was getting late and we had dinner plans in town. Internet service was quick and a huge flat-screen cable TV gave us an update on what was happening back in the States.We slipped into the mirrored bathroom to enjoy a quick rinse in the glasswalled shower. There was a deep tub beckoning, but time was limited. Big bottles of shampoo and conditioner, plush robes and slippers - no skimping here! (15/15)

Amenities/Services: The 12 Apostles seems to consider every need its guests may have. 24-hour room service is just the beginning. A movie theater complete with red-leather seats and a popcorn machine shows current features (to keep your kids happy); rooms for female guests traveling alone offer added security and pampering amenities; and the hotel’s business-ready rooms have generous desk space with Internet access and fax machines. Choose an ocean view or a mountain view – both are unforgettable. The Azure Restaurant looked inviting, with its blue leather chairs overlooking the ocean, but it was not yet open when we were preparing to leave at the crack of dawn.We had a quick bite at The Cafe (open 24 hours – beside the multi-level rock-pool) where the staff was more than willing to cook us whatever we wanted. I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to try the Sanctuary Spa, because it is physically one of the most stunning spas I have ever seen. Located below the hotel, you virtually step into the mountain, where a darkened blue-lit glass path leads you to the treatment rooms, a natural brine pool and hot and cold plunge baths carved from mountain rock. (44/45)

The Experience: Our 12 hours at The Twelve Apostles was much too short.We loved the boutique hotel feel with bigcity amenities in a spectacular natural environment. (20/20)

Total Score: 99/100 Aldona Charlton

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