Housed in a 1969 government building, The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel shows it is the full package for luxury travellers, delivering decadence and style with finesse, plus impeccable service and destination expertise to boot.
LOCATION
The hotel’s convenient location between Cotton Tree Drive and Garden Road is a hard one to beat. This building situated in the CBD is a stone’s throw from key tourism attractions like Hong Kong Park, Peak Tram Station and St John Cathedral.
The premises was converted from a government office block under a revitalisation project.
ROOMS
My N2 Grand room affords ample space at 50m2. I also appreciated the extra touches of luxury like in-room check-in rather than just a cold towel upon arrival.
I was also surprised by the turn-down amenities – a hydrating face mask made by the hotel. This will be changed regularly to items such as a chocolate bar and face mist.
Moreover, 75 per cent of rooms are 50m2 or bigger. All oversized accommodation features uniquely recessed windows allowing abundant daylight without direct heat from the morning sun.
F&B
While four outlets (The Tai Pan, Garden Lounge, Murray Lane and Popinjays) are managed by the Hotel, the 90-seat Cantonese restaurant Guo Fu Lou is a partnership with Fook Lam Moon Restaurant.
In July, Popinjays opened on the hotel’s topmost 26th floor, offering panoramic and spectacular views. The 355m2, 120-seat entertainment space includes an indoor dining area, a private dining room and a bar.
For an exclusive experience, The Aviary, a private dining room with a glass facade, will be available for intimate events for up to 14 guests.
FACILITIES
There are ample choices of indoor and outdoor venues for events. For instance, a dedicated MICE floor – Murray Room on 25th floor – provides 425m2 space for small to mid-scale events. Though there are no windows on this floor, the space benefits from great lighting equipment and event-friendly set-ups.
The Arches is a semi al-fresco venue, and there are seven boardrooms on level two to suit different needs.
While the hotel pool will only be ready this month, the spa already has two couples rooms and three treatment rooms in operation. Half or full day customised spa rituals are available.
SERVICES
The hotel provides an in-house guide of hand-drawn maps to help you explore the district.
Or simply ask the concierge for recommendations of the city’s best-kept secrets. I tested a concierge’s knowledge on private clubs and temples. He demonstrated his expertise and patience, giving a rare insider’s view rather than just mentioning off-the-mill touristy spots.
VERDICT
It was with mixed feelings revisiting what I once knew as an office block and place of work – now as a hotel guest. Still, a thumbs up to the architect who gave the historical building new life without stripping it of its timeless features.
No. of rooms 336
Rates From HK$4,800++ (US$612++)
Contact details
Email: themurray@nicolohotels.com
Tel: (852) 3141 8888
