South Australia has firmly established its place in the luxury travel sphere, with the Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island ranking fifth in The Robb Report’s prestigious annual “50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth” list for 2024. The lodge is celebrated alongside internationally famed properties such as Claridge’s in London and Le Bristol in Paris.
The Robb Report, a global authority in luxury rankings, uses a rigorous selection process for its annual luxury hotels list. This process involves consultation with their team of ‘Travel Masters’, who are specialists catering to a high-end clientele. These experts nominate and review properties based on their personal experiences and the comprehensive luxury offerings that set these establishments apart.
Southern Ocean Lodge, known for its luxury and sustainability, is recognised not only for its stunning location but also for its exceptional service and unique guest experiences. This includes everything from guided cliff top walks to intimate wildlife encounters. On their Facebook page, Southern Panel Lodge shared the news of the accolade, describing the recognition as a reflection of their “Australian contemporary coastal style” and the myriad exclusive experiences available to their guests.
This recognition comes after the iconic lodge’s grand reopening in December 2023, following a significant rebuild necessitated by devastating bushfires four years prior. The project involved an investment of $55 million and nearly four years of meticulous planning and construction to not only restore the lodge but to enhance its offerings and sustainability measures. James Baillie, co-founder of the lodge, reflected on the rebuild as a pivotal moment, marking both a return and a step forward in providing a next-generation travel experience.
“It’s a ‘full-circle moment’ for us and one that brings some closure to the past, as well as an optimistic look towards the future,” said Baillie, heralding the lodge’s enhanced focus on sustainability and luxury.
The new Southern Ocean Lodge offers twenty-three luxurious suites, each providing sweeping views of the Southern Ocean. The suites are designed with privacy and comfort in mind, equipped with private decks and eco-friendly features. New additions to the property include the ultra-premium Ocean Pavilion and an expanded Southern Spa, which now boasts additional treatment rooms and a gymnasium amongst other luxury wellness facilities.
The environmental commitment of Southern Ocean Lodge extends beyond eco-conscious amenities. The lodge integrates advanced sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting, solar power, and a comprehensive native plant regeneration program, which underlines its commitment to eco-friendly tourism.
Rates at Southern Ocean Lodge begin at AU$3,400 per couple per night, encompassing all dining, an open bar, signature experiences, and airport transfers, ensuring a comprehensive luxury experience for guests.
The inclusion of Southern Ocean Lodge in The Robb Report’s top ranks not only celebrates the property’s exceptional offerings and resilient rebirth but also places Kangaroo Island and South Australia firmly on the map as a premier global destination for luxury travel.
To find out more about Southern Ocean Lodge, visit their website here.
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