In 1887 the hotel was built by Melbourne architects Reed, Henderson and Smart for Martha Nugen and Joseph Goslin in the style of a large house rather than a public building.
The style of the structure is of interest for its reflection of Northern European Renaissance architecture, particularly from countries such as France and the Netherlands.
The Queenscliff Hotel is of social significance for its association with wealthy Victorian Society around the turn of the century who regarded Queenscliff as a fashionable summer holiday resort.
It is unique in its location. Queenscliff, situated on an isthmus, is almost an island. Swan Bay is on one side and Port Phillip on the other. Only an hour and a half away by road or sea from Melbourne - it is in fact a world away. The town sat forgotten since the beginning of World War 2 and was spared the depredations of development. There are the unique contrasts of both a resort and a working town. Fishermen, ships pilots and soldiers came and made it their home. There are grand public buildings, art galleries, antiques, modest fishermen's cottages, bay beaches, surf beaches, boatbuilders and ferries.
Facilities and Services in Queenscliff: There are several tennis courts, squash courts and two golf courses in the town. Sailing or motor vessels can be hired for trips to or from Melbourne or to the other side of the bay. There is the Marine Science Centre, scuba diving, the Sway Bay wildlife reserve, horse riding, bicycling, the Maritime Museum, Fort Queenscliff, and the Historic Centre. A steam train runs weekends and on school holidays. A regular ferry service runs daily to Sorrento. There are Sunday markets, art galleries and gift shops. Queenscliff is also the start of the Great Ocean Road - as beautiful as it is famous.
Note: Further details of the above activities are available at the reception desk.