Hotel Review: Stamford Grand Adelaide, Glenelg, South Australia

Adelaide, a city celebrated for its diversity, boasts a relatively compact CBD surrounded by expansive parklands and is home to the redeveloped and world-renowned Adelaide Oval. Beyond its urban charms, the city opens up to the Adelaide Hills and a plethora of wineries, making it the perfect getaway for those who seek relaxation, leisurely exploration, and wine-tasting adventures in the nearby Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Adelaide Hills wine regions.

When it comes to choosing accommodation, don't limit yourself to the confines of Adelaide's CBD. For an unparalleled relaxation experience, why not consider a stay in the trendy suburb of Glenelg, located right on the beachfront? During your visit, one accommodation option stands out: the Stamford Grand Adelaide. This beachfront gem, situated next to Glenelg's iconic jetty, offers the quintessential place to reside during your short stay in Adelaide.

Additional Information About Glenelg:

• Historical Significance: Glenelg, established in 1836, is one of South Australia's oldest European settlements. Its name pays homage to Lord Glenelg, the Secretary of State for War and the Colonies in the United Kingdom during the 1830s.

• Tram Line: Glenelg boasts a rich transportation heritage. The historic Glenelg Tram, operational since 1873, offers scenic rides connecting the city center to the beachfront. It's not just a mode of transport; it's a delightful experience.

• Glenelg Beach: Glenelg Beach is the jewel of Adelaide's coastline. Its sandy shores are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls along the iconic jetty.

• Shopping and Dining: Jetty Road, Glenelg's bustling hub, is brimming with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It's a vibrant place to explore, dine, and indulge in some retail therapy.

• Moseley Square: This lively square serves as the heart of Glenelg's entertainment and events. It's a great place to catch live music, festivals, and cultural happenings.

• Art and Culture: Glenelg offers various cultural attractions, including the Bay Discovery Centre, which sheds light on the area's history and maritime heritage. The Glenelg Art Gallery showcases local artworks.

• Marina and Water Activities: The Holdfast Shores Marina provides opportunities for water sports, sailing, and boating. You can even embark on a dolphin-watching cruise from this location.

Adelaide Airport, located just north of Glenelg, offers the convenience of proximity without the noise. Thanks to an 11:00 PM curfew, airplane sounds won't disturb your peace. If you're driving from the airport, the most direct route will have you at your destination in just 12 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, a bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes. For added convenience, you can arrange an airport transfer to reach the hotel hassle-free.

Once you arrive at the Stamford Grand Adelaide, you'll find it easy to explore Adelaide thanks to the city's tram system. This beachside location offers not only a relaxing atmosphere but also stunning sunsets over St. Vincent Gulf, all just a short stroll from your hotel room, even if you opt for a room without an ocean view.

Stamford Grand Adelaide at a Glance:

• Price: Starting from AUD $183.00 per night

• Check-In: 14:00

• Check-Out: 11:00

• Room: 1003

• Floor: 10 of 12 (Grand City View King)

Checking in at the hotel is a breeze. The main entrance faces the Adelaide Hills, but there's also a beachside entrance. If you're driving, you can temporarily park your car out front while checking in. During my stay at the Stamford Grand Adelaide, I encountered friendly and helpful staff. Check-in was swift, and when inquiring about parking, they provided clear instructions and information on associated charges, which I'll detail below.

The hotel features a parking garage attached to the exterior. Navigating the garage may be a bit tight for larger vehicles, so be prepared. From the hotel lobby, with luggage in tow, you can access one of the three lifts that may be a tad slow but will transport you to your room.

The Room: Grand City View King:

Upon arriving on the tenth floor, I was welcomed by a generously spacious room featuring a king-size bed, a TV offering a variety of local and cable channels, and picturesque views stretching from the city to the distant Adelaide Hills. The room also provides a glimpse of the car park below, ideal for those who want to keep a watchful eye on their vehicle.

Bathroom amenities are in line with expectations for a hotel of this class, and they are replenished daily by the diligent housekeeping staff. The room's size is notable; it avoids the cramped feeling often associated with studio-sized hotel rooms. You'll have ample space to sit by the window, making in-room dining a comfortable option.

One aspect to note is the potential for noise disturbance. During my stay, it was school holidays, coinciding with the Easter long weekend. As a result, there were energetic children running down hallways, including some late-night antics around 9:00 PM that reverberated throughout the corridor. Doors closing and lifts opening added to the occasional interruptions. If noise sensitivity is a concern, consider requesting a room situated away from the elevators. Fortunately, the disruptions were brief and infrequent.

Hotel Facilities:

The hotel offers car parking via the garage, which is also accessible to the public visiting Glenelg for the day. It operates as a ticketed car park, and hotel guests incur a daily parking fee of $20.00. You can request a ticket from the front desk, allowing you to come and go as you please throughout your stay. Rest assured, the car park provides an abundance of spaces, minimising any worries about availability.

The Stamford Grand Adelaide also boasts its own pool and gym facilities. The impressive pool offers views of Glenelg's city center and the main tram stop to the north and west. You can step out to a balcony overlooking the ocean, providing an ideal, quieter spot to savor the evening's sunset away from the crowds.

Like most hotels, the Stamford Grand Adelaide offers room service, an indulgence I couldn't resist. I opted for the Stamford Burger, and due to the Easter long weekend, room service actually proved more cost-effective than dining out. Adelaide seems to embrace a surcharge similar to Sydney's during public holidays, resulting in approximately a 10% increase in costs.

Checking Out:

Checking out of the hotel was straightforward. After settling my room service and parking bills, I quickly returned to my car and embarked on an exploration of the Hallet Cove Boardwalk, located south of Glenelg. It was the perfect way to conclude a relaxing weekend in Adelaide before heading home.

In summary, the Stamford Grand Adelaide stands as an ideal choice for accommodations when visiting Adelaide. It offers the convenience of proximity to the airport, accessibility to the Adelaide CBD without the need to stay within the city, and a breathtaking beachside location. The beach provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation, while the hotel's position on the southwest side of Adelaide allows for easy journeys to the Adelaide Hills via the South Eastern Arterial. Moreover, it serves as a superb base for embarking on wine tours and exploring destinations further south, such as Victor Harbor.

Video: Exporing Adelaide