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If ever there was an appropriate time to employ a “phoenix rising from the ashes” metaphor, the second incarnation of Southern Ocean Lodge would be it. Destroyed by the 2020 bushfires, the luxury lodge running across a limestone cliff on the wild and isolated south-west coast of Kangaroo Island was rebuilt to the tune of $55 million, before re-opening in late-2023.
At first glance, the 2.0 version of this iconic property might appear to be an exact replica of the original, which is no bad thing. The 25 spacious split-level suites that follow the slope of the clifftop still capture the immensity of the wild ocean view through glass walls that emphasise the splendid isolation. The rooms, decked in limestone tile and timber, and featuring lounge areas with fireplaces, freestanding tubs and decks (some with heated plunge pools) are a masterclass in complementing rather than competing with the view.
A similar luxe-neutral colour scheme is deployed in The Great Room, the Lodge’s spectacular main public space with its 180-degree outlook that features a generous open bar, a variety of seating, a central suspended fireplace, the dining room and a paved outdoor terrace with views of the coastline’s secluded bays, rocky cliffs and sandy beaches.
For previous guests there is a familiarity in all this that’s as comforting as the green regrowth spreading through the formerly fire-blasted terrain surrounding the Lodge. But look closer and the differences, upgrades if you like, begin to show.
The suites, for example, have been slightly repositioned to maximise both view and privacy while the spa has been shifted to the sheltered island side of the building and now features an outdoor sunbathing area and plunge pool. Extra accommodation has also been added in the form of the four-bedroom Baillie Pavilion, separate from the main building and including lounges, in-suite bars and two plunge pools.
What hasn’t changed is the friendly service from a dexterous young international team who might be serving you dinner one night and the next day taking you on one of the Lodge’s wilderness experiences to the Remarkable Rocks or an up close and personal encounter with colonies of seals and sea lions.
Also salvaged from the fire has been the communal experience. Those who want to stick to themselves are easily accommodated but evenings in The Great Room where guests can mingle around the fire over drinks add a house party vibe.
It’s the ideal place and time to express a little gratitude, relief and even wonder at how successful the rebirth of this island legend has been.
All winners in the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards have been determined via an esteemed panel of industry experts, including Goumet Traveller editor Joanna Hunkin and seasoned travel contributors Michael Harden, Lee Tulloch, Alexandra Carlton and more. Led by Hunkin, the judges and an expert team of critics also reviewed and endorsed more than 50 hotels across Australia to deliver the Gourmet Traveller Hotel Guide.
How we pick the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards winners
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