Adelaide, get ready for a whole new staycay experience as Australia’s leading off-grid nature tourism operator CABN, begins construction on 9 new cabins at The Cedars in Hahndorf.
Nestled on the picturesque 32-acre property, CABN at The Cedars will feature the purpose-built off-grid cabins, designed to accommodate up to 26 people per night. As visitors will stay in these cabins, they will explore the history of renowned artist Sir Hans Heysen at his former residence and art studio. It will be an unforgettable experience for every art lover to truly immerse themselves in the natural setting that Sir Hans Heysen and his artist daughter Nora Heysen adored, lived in, and painted.
“We’re really proud to be part of a team investing in a special chapter of Australian history and building a unique tourism asset that will attract millions of visitors to South Australia,” CEO of CABN, Michael Lamprell said.
The goal is to complement the historic aspects of the site with Indigenous tours, walking and cycling itineraries, enriching the cultural tourism offerings at The Cedars and keeping visitors in the region for an extended stay.
The South Australian Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, emphasised the significance of introducing medium-scale, off-grid accommodation to an area where this style of lodging is currently limited.
“This tourism product is the perfect fit, both in size and cultural sensitivity, as we look to grow this State tourism icon,” she said.
“Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills has spiked in visitor numbers over the past decade, it’s bustling, it’s easily accessible and more and more tourism jobs are being created in this hugely popular region.”
“The CABN development also supports the investment in the new onsite art gallery, further elevating the profile of destination to attract even more visitors to the region, where they can also enjoy the boutique wineries, distillers and an abundant array of local produce farms.”
Plans are also in place for stage two, which includes the development of a communal space, expanding the property’s versatility for various experiences, group use, special events, small conferences, and retreats.
Hans Heysen Foundation Chair, James Sexton said the partnership with CABN is growing as the company looks to realise more opportunities to share this artistic and cultural gem in the Adelaide Hills.
“This is an exciting time as we look to further share Sir Hans Heysen’s legacy,” he said.
“We’re already seeing demand for this type of tourism experience with local tour operators for small to medium size groups which will be the ideal touring option as we continue to sensitively preserve this historic icon.
“We’re thrilled to partner with CABN, particularly given their commitment to the environment and sustainability, and we know all the stories will be appropriately intertwined in the experiences offered to our visitors.”
Mark Koolmatrie, owner of Kool Tours, an Aboriginal-owned and operated business also highlighted the positive impact on tourism jobs for the local Indigenous community.
“We look forward to sharing the cultural history of this area as part of this tourism development,” he said.
“Our local Indigenous guides and tourism operators are excited to share their stories and legends of this land in the Adelaide Hills.”
As part of the broader expansion program underway at The Cedars, which includes a new multi-million-dollar gallery and retail shop funded through the $551 million Adelaide City Deal, the completion of CABN at The Cedars this year will see CABN’s footprint grow to 40 cabins in South Australia.
So, mark your calendars for June, and get ready to embark on a journey like no other.
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