KI’s New-look Luxury Lodge Reopens

The doors to Kangaroo Island’s bespoke retreat, Southern Ocean Lodge, officially reopens today (December 6) after nearly four years in planning. Here’s a sneak peek into the new-look luxury lodge…

Photography: George Apostolidis.

When old meets new

The property’s original architect, Max Pritchard, and his team spearheaded the rejuvenation, preserving features while introducing enhancements, ushering in a new era of travel on Kangaroo Island.

Retaining its original footprint, the lodge’s centerpiece, the Great Room, stands on the island’s limestone cliffs, accompanied by 23 luxurious suites positioned along the coastline. Each suite has been redesigned to offer unobstructed views of the Southern Ocean and the picturesque coastal landscape, complemented by private decks, eco-smart fireplaces, and indulgent soaking bathtubs.

A novel addition to the lodge is the ultra-premium Ocean Pavilion, crafted to serve as a four-bedroom owner’s residence or two separate two-bedroom suites, catering to those seeking an unparalleled Kangaroo Island retreat. The Great Room terrace now features a wet-edge pool, while the expanded Southern Spa boasts three treatment rooms, a gymnasium, sauna, and hot and cold plunge pools.

For the next generation traveller

Having lived and breathed the original lodge from concept and planning to its award-winning reality, owners James and Hayley Baillie wanted to give back to travellers around the globe.

“With the benefit of hindsight and learning, we saw [it as a] special chance to return the property that seemed to touch so many guests over the years and with some considered additions to take her to a next generation traveller and a sustainable future,” says James.

“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 and an even more sustainable, leading experiential tourism offering for South Australia,” he adds.  

Setting new benchmarks for sustainability in the tourism industry, Southern Ocean Lodge incorporates advanced environmentally friendly technologies such as rainwater capture, solar power generation, smart building materials, and a revitalisation of the natural surroundings with more than 45,000 biodiverse native plants.

The Southern Ocean Lodge journey begins when guests can embark on a virtual guided welcome via the Baillie Lodges Luxury Redefined podcast, offering insights from key figures involved in the lodge’s recreation, as well as local artisans, winemakers, and food producers.

Book a stay! Rates at Southern Ocean Lodge start at $3,400 per couple per night, inclusive of dining, an open bar, five signature Kangaroo Island experiences, and airport transfers. Visit southernoceanlodge.com.au, email reserve@bailielodges.com.au, or contact the reservations team at 61 2 9918 4355.