Novotel, St Kilda review: City respite by the seaside

In familiar territory, Mary O'Brien and family find a cool change and a hotel with room to move.

A few decades ago I used to live in St Kilda, so it feels strange spending a few nights in my old stamping ground. The Novotel wasn't even built when I used to hang around the area in my little one-bedroom flat within screeching distance of Luna Park.

This isn't a romantic sojourn or a family getaway but a renovation break - we have to leave our house for a few nights while our floors are being polished. We want something near the city and public transport but with some activities for the kids. St Kilda certainly fits the bill and the Novotel has a good deal for a family room.

It's a blisteringly hot day with temperatures in the high 30s when we pull up, so I'm glad we have chosen to stay near the sea. I park right outside the front door, check in and am directed to the car park.

The Novotel is good value, well located and family-friendly but style is not high on the list. The reception is spacious but bare. The long and winding corridors in dull non-colours feel like something out of Stalinist Russia. Our room, which was recently refurbished, is better. It's very spacious with a king-size bed and two singles, a large television, a desk, table and chairs, a generous bathroom and views over the car park. Ah well, you can only expect so much with a family value room. Obviously many of the superior and executive rooms have stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.

I can vouch for the air-conditioning, though, and the sound-proofing is pretty good, too. We don't hear a thing that night, we stay cool and sleep well while most of the city swelters. The room is ideal for families and the kids are delighted with the big-screen television.

The bathroom is also on the large side with corner spa bath with shower - don't forget to close the venetian blinds, though.

We'd booked an online deal that included breakfast for everyone. The restaurant, Grill 3182, is on the ground level with views of the bay. We eat watching the locals catching trams to work and jogging, while tourists explore the Esplanade. Buffet breakfast is generous and good quality. There's a good choice of fruit and I'm pleased with the T2 teas and proper coffee. Grill 3182 is in a great location but unfortunately it can't compete for dinner with the attractions of Fitzroy and Acland streets, around the corner.