That is Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island – mark 2. The unique and much-loved lodge was misplaced in bushfires which destroyed nearly half of the island in 2019. House owners James and Hayley Baillie knew they needed to rebuild. SOL, as it’s affectionately recognized, actually rose from the ashes. And it’s even higher than earlier than.
Understated class
Constructed alongside the sloping cliffs of Kangaroo Island’s southwest coast, SOL overlooks gorgeous Hanson Bay. All 25 suites face the wild Southern Ocean because it kilos the shoreline. They’re spacious, elegant and understated. Architect Max Pritchard has made certain they stand out for all the fitting causes – primary being that they don’t stand out. They nearly mix into the regenerated coastal scrub. Colors and supplies are pure, the added curves, gentle. It looks like they ‘belong’ within the dunes. Design touches embrace artist Llewlyn Ash’s touching show of tiny remnants from the unique lodge, foraged from the ashes.
The suites are tranquil havens, stocked with extra wine selections and native treats like spirits, cheese and goodies. A glass of The Islander Property Pétiyante bubbles within the bathtub overlooking the bay is bliss.
Credit score: George Apostolidis Pictures
A wine-tasting extravaganza
When the cellar doorways open at Southern Ocean Lodge, it’s just like the gates have opened to the Colosseum – and the sector is filled with wine.
There are two amphitheatres showcasing 1,200 bottles of South Australian wine and 220 labels on provide to visitors staying on the lodge. It’s lots to soak up with one look so repeat visits are really helpful.
What you expertise is a wine-tasting extravaganza and a digital tour round the most effective wine areas of the State. You may need heard about Barossa Valley Shiraz, Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale Grenache, Clare Valley Riesling and funky local weather Pinots from the Adelaide Hills. Now’s your probability to style all of them – in a single luxurious location.
Credit score: George Apostolidis Pictures
And there’s extra to take pleasure in – a day spa, scorching tub, infinity pool and the Nice Room and eating room the place hospitality steps up one other notch. Eating is a neighborhood affair. Government chef Tom Saliba sources island produce like King George whiting, marron and barramundi and KI herbs grown by native highschool college students, for the day by day altering menu. Matched wines resembling Lloyd Brothers Picpoul and MMAD Chenin Blanc are additionally on the menu however the cellar and fridge are all the time open for alternate options.
In case you need assistance choosing, these are the 2 reds hottest with visitors: Samuel’s Gorge Grenache from McLaren Vale and Coonawarra’s Penley Property Steyning Cabernet Sauvignon. The highest 2 whites: Eden Valley’s Yalumba Virgilius Viognier and Poonawatta Valley of Eden off-dry Riesling. There’s additionally the (further) cellarmaster’s checklist with iconic wines resembling Henschke Hill of Grace, Hentley Farm Clos Otto, and the one South Australian deviation – Pol Roger Sir Winston Churchill Champagne.
Wildlife and wilderness
It’s exhausting to tug your self away from the lodge however Kangaroo Island’s wildlife and wilderness are simply as irresistible, and signature excursions are included on this all-inclusive keep. Exceptional Rocks, Admiral’s Arch, Seal Bay and Kelly Hill Caves are the celebrities for dramatic geology and wildlife encounters and a sundown stroll amongst koalas and kangaroos will cross off these must-see moments.
Credit score: George Apostolidis Pictures
SOL additionally affords up wines from Kangaroo Island itself. As soon as tasting them piques your curiosity, there are 5 wineries price nearer inspection – The Islander Property, False Cape Wines, Dudley Wines, Springs Street and Bay of Shoals. A bespoke personal tour with Kangaroo Island Touring Firm will be organized by way of the concierge. It’s a good way to see the island in fashion, maybe meet the winemakers, and find out how the panorama and local weather shapes the wine.
For extra data, see the Southern Ocean Lodge web site.
