A new chapter has begun for Choice Hotels' Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments, an Ascend Collection Hotel, unveiling the first stage of a multi-million-dollar redevelopment of their waterfront property.

The transformation of the circa 1962 property, originally known as Hamilton Hume Motor Inn and more recently Quality Hotel Bayside Geelong, re-emerges as a 4.5-star, 110-room boutique hotel, delivering a new level of luxury and sophistication to the region's accommodation offering.

The project is already making a significant economic impact, generating approximately 300 construction jobs and creating 75 operational roles. Once complete in late 2026, the hotel will feature a striking new façade and a fine-dining restaurant with sweeping views of Corio Bay.

Stage one is now complete and has seen 60% of the original structure demolished to make way for:

• a new lobby and guest arrival space
• Franca's Ristorante, an all-day Italian-inspired dining venu
• 79 newly built guest rooms with premium finishes and thoughtful design
• seven flexible meeting and event spaces
• a fitness centre, sauna, and indoor lap pool with accessibility hoist. 

Kevin Robe, General Manager, Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments said the redevelopment is about more than just bricks and mortar.

“We're creating a hotel that reflects the spirit of Geelong – its history, its people, and its future. From the architecture and interiors to the smallest design details, we've drawn inspiration from our stunning bayfront location, the region's wool and textile heritage, and its Indigenous roots,” he said.

“We're proud to offer a contemporary, inclusive, and welcoming space for travellers from across Victoria, interstate and overseas – whether they're here for business, leisure, or one of the region's many iconic events.” 

Inclusivity and accessibility have been a key focus in the refurbishment plans, with 10 accessible rooms, including seven twin share options ideal for families, carers, and guests travelling together. 

Sustainability is also front and centre, with the hotel incorporating energy and water-saving technology, including a 100kW solar array, Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) in guest rooms and common areas, double-glazed windows and smart LED lighting controls throughout. EV charging stations will be available in the underground carpark and plated breakfasts to minimise food waste.

The hotel's Franca's Ristorante, named in honour of the hotel's founder Francesca, is led by Executive Chef John Hornsey, whose career spans Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury venues in the UK, Caribbean and Australia. 

“Bayside Geelong Hotel & Apartments is a shining example of what the Ascend brand represents, unique, locally connected, and independently owned hotels that offer authentic experiences,” said Trent Fraser, CEO of Choice Hotels Asia-Pac. 

“It's been a pleasure to support the team throughout their transformation journey and see them bring their vision to life. This project reflects the strength of our franchise model, where local passion is backed by the scale and support of a global network.”

Located at 13–15 The Esplanade, the hotel enjoys a peaceful pocket of Geelong's waterfront offering stunning panoramic views and just a short stroll from the vibrant city centre and entertainment precinct. It's also ideally positioned for major regional events including, the Geelong Revival Motoring Festival, Festival of Sails, and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

The hotel also participates in the Choice Privileges program, Choice Hotels' award-winning travel rewards program, where members can earn and redeem points for reward nights at properties across more than 7,000 Choice-branded hotels, spanning a diverse portfolio of brands in 46 countries and territories.

For more information and to book, go to https://www.choicehotels.com/en-au/victoria/geelong/quality-inn-hotels/au387