The El Questro wilderness park in the Kimberley has cemented its reputation as a world-class destination, with its clifftop villas and luxurious glamping options helping it earn a spot among the world’s top 100 hotels. Once known for its spirited gatherings among Melbourne’s elite, El Questro is now recognised for its unique blend of luxury and nature, as well as its renewed relationship with traditional owners.
A New Era for El Questro with Traditional Owners and Expansion Plans
Grant Wilckens, co-founder and head of Australia’s largest regional accommodation company, G’Day Group, now owns El Questro. Wilckens credits El Questro’s original owner, British aristocrat Will Burrell, for seeing the potential to transform the property from a cattle station into a vibrant tourist destination over 30 years ago. “Burrell had the vision. I want to carry that vision forward, expanding access for Australians and strengthening ties with traditional owners,” says Wilckens.
Under Burrell’s stewardship, El Questro became a sensation in the hospitality world, earning a place on Tatler magazine’s prestigious list of top 100 hotels. But after Burrell’s departure in 2005, the property saw minimal investment until Wilckens and the G’Day Group bought it in 2021 for $14 million and began restoring it to its former glory.
Renewed Ties with Traditional Owners and Long-Term Leasing
In a significant gesture towards reconciliation, the G’Day Group returned roughly half of El Questro’s lands to the Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation, who subsequently granted the group a 99-year lease to continue operating the park as a tourism hub. This arrangement not only strengthens community bonds but ensures that El Questro remains accessible to visitors from around the world while respecting the heritage of its traditional owners.
Will Burrell’s Journey: From Eton to El Questro
Reflecting on his early days, Burrell, an Eton graduate, recalls the challenges of establishing El Questro as a luxury destination, a venture that often tested his mental resolve. “I remember thinking, ‘What have I done?’ But when you see 500 guests enjoying themselves, there’s nothing better.” Burrell, who now owns Australia’s largest herd of Red Angus cattle, still finds satisfaction in the legacy he helped build in the Kimberley.
Challenges of Running a Remote Luxury Destination
Operating a luxury retreat in the rugged Kimberley isn’t without its challenges. The wet season, stretching from November to April, requires El Questro to close due to unpredictable floods that can cut off access and halt supply chains. “It’s a beautiful yet demanding place to run,” Wilckens admits. Yet he remains undeterred, driven by his vision to further elevate El Questro’s allure.
Expansions and New Experiences Planned for El Questro
Wilckens has ambitious plans for the property, including expanding accommodation by 50% with new clifftop villas overlooking the Chamberlain River, possibly featuring private plunge pools. Renovations of the main pool and central lounge are also in the works to elevate guest comfort and relaxation.
In addition, Wilckens is exploring glamping experiences that could see guests airlifted by helicopter to secluded locations, where they can enjoy the wilderness and prepare their own meals. “There are incredible spots on ridges and clifftops where we could set up glamping tents,” he shares.
Future Visions: Embracing the Wet Season
Wilckens envisions extending El Questro’s offerings to attract visitors during the wet season, using helicopters to give guests a dramatic aerial tour of the lush, rain-soaked landscape. “In the Top End, choppers are as common as taxis, so we’d love to create a wet-season experience that showcases El Questro’s wild beauty from above,” he adds.
A Bright Future for El Questro
With its newly strengthened connection to traditional custodians and expansive plans to enhance guest experiences, El Questro is poised for a future that honours its storied past while embracing new opportunities for luxury tourism in Australia’s remote Kimberley.
