The Interlude Hotel at Pentridge
On the outskirts of Melbourne, HM Prison Pentridge used to host famed criminals of various guilts, from serial killing to planting fake bombs to raise awareness of the nuclear threat.
Although Australia's incarceration rate is on a slight uptrend, some aging facilities need replacement. And when that happens, historic buildings become available for creative new purposes for those who dare.
The medieval castle-like building opened its main gate to prisoners and their guards in 1851, and for the next century and a half, it was a spine-chilling place witnessing executions and occasional escapees.
The brick-laden penal establishment is located in Coburg, a suburb of Melbourne.
Pentridge Prison has appeared in numerous films, series, and soap operas. It was featured in the first episode of Shantaram before "Linbaba" ended up in Mumbai and started his fascinating journey.
Contemporary art pieces decorate the white walls of the former prison cell block, where the large arches are more majestic and less intimidating than they were in their former life.
Pentridge's historical significance is well preserved despite the building's radical transformation into a luxurious boutique hotel.
Considering how much effort it takes to balance original looks and modern conveniences in prison hotels, it's no small feat!
Olivine Wine Bar
The Interlude's 500-bottle wine cellar is not for decorative purposes. The knowledgeable in-house sommelier of the hotel takes small groups on time travel with wine - talking about the rich history of winemaking and variety of tastes, including Australia's most popular type, Shiraz.
North & COMMON Restaurant
Prison Rooms
Unlike the original structure, the Interlude Hotel doesn't host masses of people; your ticket inside costs hundreds of dollars instead of committing a crime.
But in exchange, the 19 luxurious suites provide more space and privacy than a prison warden could ever dream of and come with a welcome drink and Relaxation Pool experience.
The suites take up multiple former prison cells: 17 consist of four, and two spans over five cells.
The plush leather sofas are an ideal place to contemplate how 65 people managed to escape, including Gregory David Roberts, the writer of the famous novel "Shantaram" from this (former) maximum security jail.
Underground Pool
The warm waters of the relaxation pool with cozy candlelit daybeds almost make you forget that you are in a 170-year-old building where agony used to rule and people were happy to chew on dry bread.
But here you are, resting in a private cabana by the pool with a delicious fruit selection and observing the fascinating features of this underground pool. "Are the metal battens and brick walls original? Oh well, this dragon fruit is heavenly."
