Is there a more spectacular meeting of wilderness and luxury than Southern Ocean Lodge? Lining a limestone clifftop on Kangaroo Island’s remote south-west coast with only ocean between it and Antarctica, the lodge, recently rebuilt after being destroyed in the 2020 bushfires, has returned more luxurious and unique than ever.
The rooms
All 25 suites in the main building feature private terraces, sunken lounge areas with a fireplace, bathrooms with a freestanding tub, a wall of glass framing an exhilarating expanse of the ocean and sky and a soothing, airy limestone and timber palette. Bigger suites include heated plunge pools, while the free-standing four-bedroom Baillie Pavilion features two infinity pools.
Food & drink
All meals, included in the tariff, are created using local produce, much of it fished from the ocean surrounding Kangaroo Island. The dining room is on the mezzanine level of the Great Room, the spectacular central lounge that features an amazingly well-stocked open bar where fellow travellers gather each night around a central suspended fireplace.
The service
In true Aussie style, the service here from a young international team is relaxed and casual but with an impressively sharp eye for detail and versatility – the person serving you breakfast could also be your guide when you take a day trip to check out the sea lions.
Ideal for: High-end wilderness fans
Why we love it:
- The location. Southern Ocean Lodge has a true sense of privacy and isolation.
- The excursions. Choose from close encounters with wildlife on ‘Australia’s Galapagos’ to beach fishing or gourmet food and wine experiences.
- The spa. The Southern Spa boasts hot and cold plunge pools and a sheltered sun terrace.
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