Southern Ocean Lodge: Ranked Best in Oceania and Among the World’s Top 10 Luxury Hotels

21 Jan, 2025 | News

Rising from the ashes of the 2020 bushfires, Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island has reclaimed its place among the world’s finest luxury accommodations. At the inaugural Telegraph Hotel Awards, the lodge was crowned ‘Best in Oceania’ and secured the eighth spot globally on the list of the world’s top 50 hotels. This prestigious recognition reinforces its position as a benchmark for Australian luxury travel.

Southern Ocean Lodge: A Global Icon of Luxury

Perched on a clifftop overlooking the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean, the lodge offers an unparalleled blend of contemporary eco-luxury and immersion in nature. Its breathtaking location, complemented by curated guest experiences, sets it apart as a premier destination for travelers seeking exclusivity and connection to the natural world.

Guests at Southern Ocean Lodge can enjoy bespoke encounters with Kangaroo Island’s native wildlife, stunning coastal vistas, and gourmet cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients. These experiences create a sense of place that few other accommodations worldwide can match.

The Road to Recovery

The lodge’s reopening in 2024 marked a monumental milestone for Kangaroo Island’s recovery from the devastating 2020 bushfires. After nearly four years of meticulous planning, design, and reconstruction, Southern Ocean Lodge unveiled a reimagined luxury retreat, paying homage to its original spirit while embracing innovative design and sustainability.

Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison commended the achievement, stating:
“The reopening of Southern Ocean Lodge not only showcases the resilience of Kangaroo Island but also reinforces its position on the world stage. Having Australia’s top-rated hotel and the world’s second-best beach makes Kangaroo Island an unmissable destination.”

Recognition for Kangaroo Island’s Tourism Revival

Southern Ocean Lodge’s accolades are part of a broader resurgence for Kangaroo Island as a premier eco-tourism destination. The region earned a place on Lonely Planet’s 2024 Top Regions Hotlist, celebrated for its pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and exceptional local produce.

Adding to its appeal, Stokes Bay, located on the island’s north coast, was named the second-best beach in the world earlier this year. These recognitions have bolstered interest in the island, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination for global travelers.

Economic Impact and Future Outlook

Tourism remains vital to Kangaroo Island, providing one-third of local jobs and contributing significantly to the economy. In the year leading up to March 2024, international visitors injected $35 million into the region’s economy.

Minister Bettison emphasised the importance of the lodge’s reopening in driving further recovery:
“After almost four years in the planning, design, and construction since it was razed in the 2020 bushfires, the new-look luxury accommodation has already captured global attention. This renewed interest is boosting the region’s international recovery and drawing visitors from around the globe.”

The resilience of local operators and the broader community has been instrumental in revitalising Kangaroo Island’s tourism sector. Southern Ocean Lodge, with its global accolades, is poised to enhance the island’s international appeal further.

A Bright Future for Southern Ocean Lodge

With its breathtaking location, world-class luxury, and commitment to sustainability, Southern Ocean Lodge has redefined the standards for Australian hospitality. As it continues to draw global acclaim, the lodge is set to remain a shining star in Kangaroo Island’s tourism landscape.

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