Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide by Accor

Amelia and Todd deserve a special mention for their attentive care. It made the stay memorable. I was in Adelaide for two nights, and the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel was an ideal base on North Terrace, right in the middle of the city. Adelaide Oval is practically next door, King William Street is just around the corner, and bars, cocktail places, and restaurants are an easy stroll away. The rooms were spotless and comfortable, and quiet enough for a deep, uninterrupted sleep after a long day. The hotel carries its history with understated elegance. Someone at the front desk might call it an “economy hotel,” but that label doesn't fit the warm welcome, quality of sleep, or the location. Cleanliness, sleep and comfort, location, service, and value all get 5/5. Some hotels try to impress. The Mercure Grosvenor simply delivers, and that's what makes it the grand dame it is.

The beds and pillows were comfortable, and the staff were helpful, but the rooms felt very old and dark. The windows were filthy, and I couldn't stand looking at them. There was a musty smell, so we bought deodoriser to spray around the room. The hotel itself felt secure, but the area outside didn't feel safe when coming and going, especially at night. We were meant to return for two more nights later in the week, but booked somewhere else so we wouldn't have to go back.

We've stayed here several times, and the staff have always been friendly. The rooms are comfortable and well maintained. The train station is across the road and the tram stop is only a short step away. The downstairs carpark is a bit pokey, but on this visit I noticed they'd filled in some potholes, which I appreciated.

The location is good, it's inexpensive, and the service is friendly. Still, I wouldn't stay here again. The room smelled musty and was very dark, with a view of a wall and pigeons outside. The window wouldn't stay open for fresh air, so I propped it with a pillow. The decor is tired and dated, and the shower gives you a blast of cold water before it warms up. Housekeeping skipped our room, so we had to ask for fresh towels. The air conditioning is poor and antiquated, with a pedestal fan provided as well. The bed is quite firm and the pillows very flat. Only one lift was operational, which meant extra waiting and no guarantee of getting your bags to your room. The whole hotel needs a multi-million dollar refurbishment, at the very least new carpets throughout, repainting, new curtains, and updated furniture. I know the building is historic, but the inside doesn't have to look it.