South Australia has firmly established its place in the luxury travel sphere, with Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island ranking fifth in the Robb Report’s prestigious annual list of ‘The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth’ for 2024. The lodge is celebrated alongside internationally renowned properties such as Claridge’s in London and Le Bristol in Paris.
The Robb Report, a global authority on luxury hotel rankings, uses a rigorous selection process for its annual list of luxury hotels. This process involves consultation with its team of “Travel Masters,” specialists who cater to high-end clientele. These experts nominate and evaluate 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 clifftop walks to intimate wildlife encounters. On its Facebook page, Southern Panel Lodge shared the news of the accolade, describing the recognition as a reflection of its “contemporary Australian coastal style” and the myriad of exclusive experiences it offers its guests.
The recognition comes after the iconic lodge’s grand reopening in December 2023, following a major rebuild necessitated by devastating bushfires four years prior. The project required a $55 million investment and nearly four years of meticulous planning and construction to not only restore the lodge but also enhance its offerings and sustainability measures. James Baillie, the lodge’s co-founder, called the rebuild a pivotal moment, marking both a return and a step forward in delivering a next-generation travel experience.
“This is a moment of closure for us, bringing some closure to the past and an optimistic look to the future,” Baillie said, welcoming the lodge’s increased focus on sustainability and luxury.
The new Southern Ocean Lodge features twenty-three luxurious suites, each with stunning views of the Southern Ocean. The suites are designed with privacy and comfort in mind, featuring private terraces and eco-friendly features. New additions to the property include the ultra-premium Ocean Lodge and an expanded Southern Spa, which now features additional treatment rooms and a gym among other luxurious wellness facilities.
Southern Ocean Lodge’s environmental commitment extends beyond eco-friendly amenities. The lodge incorporates advanced sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting, solar power and a comprehensive native plant regeneration program, that underscore its commitment to environmentally responsible tourism.
Rates at Southern Ocean Lodge start at AU$3,400 per couple per night, including all meals, open bar, exclusive experiences and airport transfers, ensuring a complete 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 renaissance, but also places Kangaroo Island and South Australia firmly on the map as a premier global destination for luxury travel.
To learn more about Southern Ocean Lodge, visit their website here.
