This seaside motel’s retro makeover is making waves

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
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Vintage frills meet modern thrills on the Mornington Peninsula.

With the retro aesthetic enjoying a renaissance across Australia, holidaymakers are booking accommodation that evokes a sense of nostalgia, with all the mod-cons to match. The latest arrival in a wave of reimagined stays is Motel Flinders, which is bringing its own vintage charm to coastal Victoria.

Where is Motel Flinders?

Situated on the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, Motel Flinders is the namesake of the small village it calls home. Just under a 90-minute drive from the state’s capital, the town of Flinders is the perfect place for a city escape.

Motel Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Interior design firm Studio Tate is behind the recent revitalisation.

The 26-room boutique motel reopened its doors in January after renovations by Melbourne-based interior design firm Studio Tate. Guests can choose from four suite types: the King Room, Family Room, Premier Family Room and Loft Room.

While each space has been reimagined to meet contemporary comforts, the motel still retains its heritage charm. Exposed brick walls and rounded retro furnishings remind guests of a bygone era, accentuated by vibrant colours, wooden textures and bold patterns.

Motel Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Exposed brick walls heighten the motel’s retro feel.

It’s not just motels receiving million-dollar makeovers either. A broader trend has recently seen retro revivals across the country – outdated pubs are being revamped, vintage styling is making a comeback and even retro cinemas are on the rise. It’s official: old-school cool is in.

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Why stay at Motel Flinders?

Apart from its obvious visual appeal and timeless character, Motel Flinders has plenty to offer the modern traveller. Relax in your room and take full advantage of the wi-fi, smart TV, coffee machine and air-conditioning. Or grab a local brew from the in-room minibar and catch some sun on your private balcony or courtyard.

Motel Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Motel Flinders is perfectly positioned in the heart of town.

While there are fully-equipped kitchenettes in each room and barbecue facilities onsite, those keen to get out and about won’t have to go far. The equally charming Flinders Hotel, which dates back to the late 1800s, is on the same street. Like its neighbour across the road, this iconic pub may be old, but it’s anything but tired. Local produce is the star of its curated seasonal menu, while an impressive wine list champions the Mornington Peninsula’s top vineyards.

Motel Flinders is the perfect base to explore further, too – whether you’re hitting up the region’s best hot springs or simply popping down to Flinders Pier with fish and chips. The historic town also boasts everything from antique outlets and art galleries to boutique shops and cosy cafes.

Motel Flinders on the Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Return to your cosy digs after a day of exploring.

Its coastal position, which borders Mornington Peninsula National Park, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as well. Think bushwalks, beaches and even subtidal rock platform reefs, perfect for snorkelling come summer.

How to book

Keen to check in? Motel Flinders is now open to guests, with bookings easily made via its website. Rooms can sleep between three and six guests and range in price depending on suite type and selected dates. There is also free onsite parking available, and the reception is fully staffed between 7am–7pm.

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Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to check out places like Scotland and North America, her favourite place to explore will always be her homeland.
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A must-visit list of Victoria’s most iconic spots

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    Mount William is the highest peak in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. (Image: Matt Donovan)

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    the Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road
    The Twelve Apostles are a star attraction on the Great Ocean Road. (Image: Tourism Australia/Two Palms/Harry Pope)

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    kangaroos in You Yangs
    Kangaroos enjoy dusk in the You Yangs. (Image: Tourism Australia)

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    Redwood Forest, Yarra Valley
    Yarra Valley’s soaring Redwood Forest. (Image: Tourism Australia)

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    the Wilsons Promontory
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    the Hanging Rock Reserve, Macedon Ranges
    Enigmatic Hanging Rock. (Image: Visit Victoria/ Rob Blackburn)

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    Great Stupa, Bendigo
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    Cape Schanck Lighthouse, Mornington Peninsula

    the Cape Schanck Lighthouse from above
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