Image Credit: Mount Lofty Estate
In a well-deserved feat, the iconic boutique hotel Mount Lofty Estate is Adelaide’s best hotel, taking fifth spot among the highest-ranking hotels in Australia, according to TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards.
The ranking, determined by customer reviews, is awarded to “those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the TripAdvisor community over a 12-month period.”
Out of more than eight million listings worldwide, only one one per cent achieve this milestone, making Mount Lofty Estate’s top-five position even more impressive. Achieving 4.9 across 1,254 reviews, and a perfect 5 for location, the Adelaide Hills hotspot has undoubtedly cemented itself as a premier destination for accommodation in South Australia.
Hotel Owner David Horbelt says the award is particularly meaningful because it reflects the genuine experiences of guests.
“It was a fantastic achievement to be recognised again in these awards and a real credit to our team that delivers this old-fashioned hospitality,” he says.
“I’m so grateful that our guests have once again validated our commitment to the highest levels of guest service in Australia and couldn’t be happier that we are still leading the charge in guest service.”
No stranger to the spotlight, the estate has collected a slew of accolades over the years, including #5 Top Hotel in Australia & South Pacific, #1 Luxury Hotel in Australia & South Pacific, #23 in World for Luxury, and #1 Small & Boutique Hotel in Australia & South Pacific for Sequoia Lodge.
This latest achievement marks their seventh consecutive year of being recognised by TripAdvisor but, in a humble nod, David says it wasn’t an entirely expected victory, crediting the win to a whole-team effort and constant dedication to improvement.
“[It comes down to] constant focus on being better every year, investment in the property, guest experiences and ensuring our team focus on traditional service and are aligned with our values,” he admits.
Of the reviews were comments like “swimming in the foggy morning under autumn trees in etched in my memory…” and “it was truly a luxury 6 star experience at every single touch point – service, setting, food and wine, magic!”
Set over 30 acres in Piccadilly Valley, the property well and truly speaks for itself. Nestled within 4,000 acres of national parks, it offers incredible panoramic views of Adelaide and is perfectly located near charming hills townships and wineries.
“You’re perched above the clouds, surrounded by century-old gardens, native bushland, and panoramic views that shift with the mist and the light, explains General Manager, Nicole Richards.
“Just 20 minutes from Adelaide CBD and close to 70+ Adelaide Hills wineries, plus proximity to McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley, make it an unbeatable spot,” David says.
But this gem is more than just a pretty face, it’s steeped in an interesting, if a little bourgeois, history.
Built in 1852 by Arthur Hardy, the estate became the backdrop to some of the most extravagant parties. Think Great Gatsby levels of opulence, grandeur and exclusivity, Hardy’s describing their lifestyle as one of ‘feudal splendour.’
The pair took great pride in hosting their friends on the spectacular grounds and, honouring its roots, it remains an exclusive, adults only retreat.
Guests are treated to plenty of indulgent amenities and experiences, including the three-hatted Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant, thermal hot pools, and in-house butler, and even a day spa designed for the ultimate pampering experience. Stay in the original house, or enjoy Sequoia Lodge, a recent addition for a little more romance and privacy.
If traditional luxury in the misty Adelaide Hills is calling your name this chilly season, find the two newly released winter packages here.
Other stays making the TripAdvisor list include The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove, Quest South Perth Foreshore and – taking number one spot – is the brand new Quest Hotel in Orange, New South Wales.
Find the full list of locations here, and start planning your next 5-star getaway.
WHAT: TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards – ‘Best of the Best Hotels’
For their website, click here.
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