Baillie Lodges snaps up luxe Barossa Valley property

By Alexandra Coulton

Baillie Lodges has taken the reigns at South Australian luxury lodge The Louise.

Located in the heart of the Barossa Valley’s world-renowned wine region, The Louise is well known for its culinary focus and is credited as the birthplace of Luxury Lodges of Australia.

The property was transformed from a country motel into a 15-suite luxury lodge by Jim and Helen Carreker when they acquired it 16 years ago.

The Carrekers vision for The Louise was to provide a genuine food- and wine-paired dining experience showcasing the Barossa community’s most exceptional wines – from world-renowned wine houses to boutique cellar doors.

James Baillie, founder of Baillie Lodges, said: “We’re delighted that Jim and Helen have entrusted us to continue their legacy and vision for creating exceptional culinary tourism in the Barossa.

“In 2009, my wife Hayley and I stayed at The Louise at the invitation of Jim and Helen to participate in the genesis planning for the Luxury Lodges of Australia cooperative.

“In the decade since, we have welcomed domestic and international guests travelling to South Australia, whose itineraries included stays at both The Louise and Southern Ocean Lodge.

“Our teams are already great mates, and our respective lodges’ ‘hospitality DNA’ is profoundly matched.”

The Louise’s owner and managing director, Jim Carreker, said he couldn’t have imagined a better fit for the property.

“In 2005, Helen and I had a vision to help develop the global appeal for culinary stays in the Barossa to match that of other iconic wine regions such as Napa, Bordeaux and Tuscany,” he said.

“That goal is largely achieved, and it’s now time for The Louise to join an internationally significant brand with all the resources to further develop both the reputation and the facilities of this very unique property.

“This acquisition will be vitally important to the economy of the Barossa and South Australia.

“Our personal mission in the hospitality industry here will soon be complete, and we look forward to returning frequently as guests at The Louise to share in the growth of brand Barossa as a drawcard for international premium visitors to Australia.”

Baillie Lodges’ portfolio of upscale lodges also includes Longitude 131° at Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island and Silky Oaks Lodge in the Daintree, which is currently under renovation ahead of reopening in spring this year.

Featured image source: South Australian Tourism Commission

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