Although parts of Dunedin look a little down-at-heel nowadays, and the heritage precinct is no exception - these are difficult times - it's still a great choice for a winter weekend away. The precinct is the heart of business life and boasts many fabulous commercial buildings from Dunedin's wealthy past after the gold rush. The Fable Hotel is one of them.
They were kind enough to upgrade our room choice, maybe because we'd booked direct and were staying for 4 nights. Whatever the reason, we were thrilled and very grateful. The room was quieter, being on the 6th floor, and very comfortable. Lovely stylish decor and quality textiles throughout. When the weather turned in one afternoon, it was nice to tuck in and watch a couple of movies from the wide choice on offer (free).
Whether one likes black painted walls is a matter of personal taste - but it does make for a slightly darkened ambience, especially with the quirky subdued mood lighting. Sometimes this was challenging for our less-than-perfect eyesight, although it did create a cosy ambience.
The hotel staff were friendly and professional, clearly well-trained. The same was true in the restaurant/bar, the Press Club, which was excellent. We dined there on our first night and the food was top notch.
Included in our room price was a 'continental breakfast' - a phrase guaranteed to make my heart sink. Sure enough, the 2 options on offer -...Although parts of Dunedin look a little down-at-heel nowadays, and the heritage precinct is no exception - these are difficult times - it's still a great choice for a winter weekend away. The precinct is the heart of business life and boasts many fabulous commercial buildings from Dunedin's wealthy past after the gold rush. The Fable Hotel is one of them.
They were kind enough to upgrade our room choice, maybe because we'd booked direct and were staying for 4 nights. Whatever the reason, we were thrilled and very grateful. The room was quieter, being on the 6th floor, and very comfortable. Lovely stylish decor and quality textiles throughout. When the weather turned in one afternoon, it was nice to tuck in and watch a couple of movies from the wide choice on offer (free).
Whether one likes black painted walls is a matter of personal taste - but it does make for a slightly darkened ambience, especially with the quirky subdued mood lighting. Sometimes this was challenging for our less-than-perfect eyesight, although it did create a cosy ambience.
The hotel staff were friendly and professional, clearly well-trained. The same was true in the restaurant/bar, the Press Club, which was excellent. We dined there on our first night and the food was top notch.
Included in our room price was a 'continental breakfast' - a phrase guaranteed to make my heart sink. Sure enough, the 2 options on offer - although of a quality way above the average 'continental breakfast' - were both sweet, being fruit-based and with pastries or toast. No good for me as I just can't face fruit or sweet stuff in the mornings. So I paid extra for the a la carte cooked breakfasts - which were excellent. I'd like to suggest that a savoury alternative be introduced to the continental choice, for those of us trying to cut sugar out of our diets. It would also have been nice to have filter coffee included, rather than have to pay extra for barista coffees.
On the whole, we really enjoyed our stay and would definitely consider returning.More
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