Refined, environmentally sensitive lodge (sister property to Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island) located between two national parks. The 21 spacious oceanview suites feature a contemporary design with limestone floors, spotted-gum walls, works by local artisans, dramatic glass-walled baths and outdoor terraces. The restaurant serves locally procured Australian cuisine; also convivial open bar and walk-in wine cellar. The striking Great Room features floor-to-ceiling windows with glorious views of the ocean; also outdoor seating areas, heated plunge pool, serene library/lounge and panoramic spa with three treatment rooms, a steam room and a relaxation lounge. Complimentary guided excursions allow guests to discover the abundant wildlife and natural attractions of “Australia’s Galápagos.” No children under age 6.
It has been some time since we’ve been as impressed by a new hotel as we were by Southern Ocean Lodge, which opened in March 2008. The property is perched high above Kangaroo Island’s spectacular southern coast, where dramatic wind- and sea-gouged cliffs are scoured by white-crested breakers and punctuated by glorious white-sand beaches.
Check-in and orientation were exceptionally gracious and charming. The magnificent Great Room, a huge pavilion with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wall of golden limestone, is compartmentalized by the exquisite furniture of Adelaide-based, Malaysian-born furniture designer Khai Liew. Liew’s pieces are inspired by ’60s Scandinavian and traditional Chinese designs, and many are crafted in pale American oak. The décor is augmented by a suspended woodburning steel fireplace and tables piled with magazines and books.
The 21 suites all come with hypnotic views of the Southern Ocean, which extends as far as Antarctica, and are situated on a sloping hallway that runs along a cliff top. Our room, #2, required a long walk, but the compensations were privacy and magnificent views over a sandy cove. A paved limestone entrance gave way to floors made from recycled timber. In front of the window, an inviting sofa was dotted with oatmeal canvas bolsters, kangaroo-print cushions and a soft brown wool throw. Bedside switches operated blackout shades on the ocean-facing wall. The bath was faced with toast-colored limestone, equipped with underfloor heating and a stall shower, and provided locally made lavender-scented toiletries. Suites #6 and #8 have soaking tubs and Jacuzzis. An outdoor terrace came with a built-in couch. All told, our suite was one of the most delightful places we’ve had the pleasure of occupying in a very long time.
The resort’s cleverly designed dining room has tables set in intimate niches in the limestone wall, as well as others by windows overlooking the ocean. Given the constraints of a remote location, the food is excellent, with a daily market menu augmented by one of appealing comfort food. Southern Ocean Lodge was undoubtedly the highlight of our trip to Australia.
Suite for two, from $2,020 (Two-night minimum stay required).
Rates include taxes, all meals and beverages (excluding cellarmaster's list), in-suite bar, signature Kangaroo Island experiences, use of mountain bikes, island airport transfers and Wi-Fi.
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Air-Conditioning
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Airport Transfers
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Bar
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Beach Access
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Beachfront
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Biking
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Business Center
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Children Welcome
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Concierge
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DVD Player
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Fireplace
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Grand Award Winners 2012
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Hair Dryer
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Handicapped Accessible Bathrooms
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Handicapped Accessible Public Areas
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Hiking
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Housekeeping Daily
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iPod Docking Station/MP3 Player
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Kayaking
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Massage
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Minibar with Refrigerator
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Non-Smoking Public Areas
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Outdoor Swimming Pool, Heated
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Parking, Complimentary
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Readers' Choice 2011
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Relaxation Room
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Restaurant
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Robes
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Safe
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Sightseeing Tours
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Spa
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Spa Treatment
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Steam Room
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Sundry Shop/Boutique
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Telephone
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TV
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Wireless Internet in Public Areas
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Wireless Internet, Complimentary
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Stay four nights and pay for only three – the perfect stay to explore the wonders of the island. Provides a bonus value of up to 5500 AUD (approx. 5150 USD) per couple.
Also Includes:
Andrew Harper benefits, as well as the standard rate inclusions: all meals, open bar with premium wine and spirits, in-suite bar, signature Kangaroo Island experiences and island airport transfers.
To book a Special Offer, call the Andrew Harper Travel Office at (800) 375-4685 or (630) 734-4610, or email Reservations@AndrewHarper.com.