Shadow Play Melbourne by Peppers

Shadow Play Melbourne by Peppers is an apartment-style stay on City Road in Southbank, about 1km from Melbourne’s CBD and a five-minute walk from the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Its location puts guests close to the Yarra River, South Melbourne Markets, Crown’s dining precinct and the city’s arts venues, including NGV, Melbourne Arts Centre and Melbourne Recital Centre. The Yarra River is also around a 10-minute walk away, giving the property a useful base for exploring central Melbourne on foot.

Accommodation ranges from one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments to five three-bedroom penthouses on level 45. The apartments have floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary interiors, with selected two-bedroom layouts offering balconies. The penthouses are designed for groups of up to six and include expansive city or bay views, making them a practical option for families, friends travelling together or longer stays where extra space matters. The apartment format also suits business travellers who prefer more room and kitchen facilities than a conventional hotel room.

Facilities are centred on level nine, where guests can use the outdoor heated pool and take in views across Melbourne. There is also a gym with high-end fitness equipment, plus adjoining steam and sauna rooms. A 24-hour reception, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and wheelchair access add everyday convenience, while the property is entirely non-smoking and does not allow pets. Limited valet parking is available for an additional daily charge and needs to be booked with the hotel.

For food and drinks, Edwin Wine Bar and Cellar focuses on Victorian wines and seasonal ingredients, with a stated emphasis on supporting local people and producers. It offers an on-site option for a relaxed drink or meal without needing to leave the building. The hotel also has four meeting rooms, with the largest measuring 224 square metres and seating up to 50, so it can work for small events and business gatherings as well as leisure stays. Having received the 2024 Apartment Accommodation Hotel of the Year award from Accommodation (VIC), Shadow Play is best suited to visitors wanting a contemporary Southbank base with apartment space, hotel facilities and easy access to Melbourne’s riverfront, convention centre and cultural attractions.