One of Australia’s most celebrated heritage hotels has been reborn, with Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa officially unveiling its transformation into Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains and welcoming its first guests under the new banner.
The rebrand marks a significant milestone for Salter Brothers Hospitality, positioning the 137-year-old estate as the second property in its growing Ardour Hotels & Estates collection, alongside Ardour Milton Park Bowral.
Perched above the Jamison Valley and originally built in 1889 as the summer residence of Sir Frederick Darley, the heritage-listed property has long been regarded as one of the Blue Mountains’ most prestigious addresses. Known for its late Victorian-early Federation architecture, manicured English gardens and storied history, the estate has welcomed generations of travellers, dignitaries and high-profile guests over the decades.
Now, following a multimillion-dollar refurbishment, the landmark hotel is entering a new era designed to elevate its luxury credentials while preserving the character that has made it a regional icon.
Heritage preservation, contemporary experience
Salter Brothers Hospitality CEO Tash Tobias said the project was centred on balancing heritage preservation with a contemporary guest experience.
“Lilianfels embodies the very essence of Australian mountain luxury,” Tobias said. “For decades, it has welcomed generations of families, dignitaries, socialites, and celebrities, whilst standing as a beloved icon for the Blue Mountains region. This spectacular legacy is exactly what makes the estate so deserving of this thoughtful transformation.
“Our vision for this project was guided by a profound responsibility to honour Lilianfels’ history and preserve its original character, whilst introducing world-class luxury hospitality,” she said. “It is far more than a redesign – it’s an evolution to continue the legacy of this landmark property with a vibrant new chapter.”
The extensive refurbishment has been led by award-winning Australian design studio Luchetti Krelle, whose vision draws inspiration from eccentric English garden estates. The redesign introduces bold colours, statement furnishings and distinctive detailing intended to celebrate the property’s heritage while creating a more contemporary luxury experience.
Refreshed accommodation
Among the most significant changes is the complete redesign of all 89 guest rooms and suites. The refreshed accommodation features three distinct colour palettes and incorporates bespoke bedheads, custom textiles, unique patterns and marble-topped joinery.
Public spaces have also received a substantial makeover, including a refreshed reception area, redesigned common spaces and a striking new wine wall that doubles as an intimate dining experience.
A centrepiece of the transformation is The Lounge, a new bar concept positioned at the heart of the hotel. Designed to offer a sophisticated after-hours atmosphere, the venue will serve signature cocktails, curated wines and an elevated food menu featuring dishes such as Four-Cheese & Truffle Sliders, Steak Frites, QLD Spanner Crab Brioche and a Chef’s Charcuterie selection.
The property is also expanding its experiential dining offering with new inclusions including Caviar Service, a roaming Cheese Experience featuring seasonal local cheeses, and an enhanced High Tea featuring luxury touches such as gold-leaf accents and caviar-topped dishes.
Newly appointed executive chef Kam McManamey said food and beverage would play a central role in defining the property’s new identity.
“Second to the visual transformation, our refined culinary experience is where Ardour luxury will really be felt by guests,” he said. “The Lounge has been created to become the heartbeat of the hotel. It’s an entirely new atmosphere designed to flow between pre-dinner cocktails, a three-course sit-down meal, or a late-night whiskey. Our new menu offers a much more elevated, contemporary take on classics, to blend old and new.”
The transformation extends beyond accommodation and dining. Lilianfels’ spa facilities are set to be relaunched under the Èliva luxury wellness brand, following similar developments at Ardour Milton Park Bowral and InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach.
Importantly, two of the estate’s most popular venues remain unchanged. Darley’s Restaurant will continue operating as the region’s signature fine dining destination, while Miss Lilian will maintain its casual Southeast Asian-inspired offering for both locals and visitors.
Bookings for Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains are now open, with guests staying before 30 September 2026 eligible for launch offers including complimentary Taittinger Champagne, a $100 dining credit, breakfast for two and late checkout.
