Sorrento’s Hotel Continental to be rescued
Hotelier Julian Gerner has entered into a partnership with development company Steller for a $35 million restoration of Sorrento’s iconic Hotel Continental.
Gerner acquired the four storey limestone hotel, popularly known as the Conti, back in 2015
What followed was a number of battles with interest groups as he secured approvals for broad scale commercial and residential developments of the hotel built in 1875 and which closed in May.
He now plans to put the hotel through a total restoration, renovation and refurbishment which would add a day spa, pool and luxury apartments to the heritage-listed landmark.
When it’s finished, it will feature a public bar and bistro, restaurant, “private dining and champagne bar”, two functions rooms, 38 hotel rooms and a cafe.
There will also be a gym, day spa, 25 metre lap pool, deck, spa, sauna and steam rooms, parking and luxury apartments.
Constructed in 1875 by the “Father of Sorrento”, comedian, actor, entrepreneur and politician, George Coppin, the Continental Hotel was listed as being of architectural significance to Victoria.
According to the Victorian Heritage Database, the hotel is “a relatively intact example of the type of hotel development popular in the later years of the nineteenth century providing accommodation, entertainment and associated hotel services for wealthy city tourists.”
Steller managing director Nicholas Smedley saw the hotel becoming a “landmark tourist destination for the Mornington Peninsula”.
“Sorrento has grown significantly over the past decade and continues to evolve with year-round population and tourism,” Mr Smedley told news.com,au
“Steller has had a close eye on the historic hotel since Julian announced plans for restoration.”
Gerner concurred.
“Continental is a magnificent limestone building, deserving of restoration and preservation,” he told news.com.au.
“I am very proud to be the new custodian of the Continental Hotel and to breathe life back into a Sorrento landmark.”
by Leon Gettler, November 29th 2017
