Australia’s iconic boutique travel destination, Raes on Wategos in Byron Bay, is expanding, adding 10 suites on a second property which is set to open in late 2024.
The new suites on the former Victoria’s at Wategos site will increase the accommodation options from an existing seven suites at the original site and will now offer the ability for more guests to experience Raes’ world-class hospitality and style as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.
The 10 generously sized suites also feature several indoor common areas with open log fireplaces, tropical landscape gardens and two pools. There is a 16×3-metre pool with a waterfall on the western side and a 12-metre solar-heated pool on the eastern side, complete with cabana and lounge areas.
Guests can also make use of the extensive nearby facilities that include the two-hatted Raes Dining Room led by executive chef Jason Saxby with its alfresco Cellar Bar with views of Wategos Beach. Or the indulgent Raes Spa with its range of RATIONALE treatments. Raes’ ongoing partnerships with prestige brands such as Perrier-Jouët further bolster the luxurious in-room experience they offer.
“We have long considered the possibility of extending our offering at Raes on Wategos, and so the opportunity to procure a property as iconic as Victoria’s was one we embraced wholeheartedly,” Raes managing director, Jordy Catalano, said.
“As we celebrate 30 years of Raes, we’re thrilled to offer guests a wider opportunity to experience the elegance, warmth and unparalleled hospitality Raes on Wategos is renowned for.”
The property mirrors the minimalistic and unpretentious coastal look synonymous with Raes on Wategos, with a fit-out by lauded interior designer Tamsin Johnson, who refurbished Raes on Wategos original site in 2016, and has also worked on other Catalano personal properties. The fitout features a neutral colour palette and luxe yet natural touches throughout.
Johnson’s design fuses Mediterranean influences with an understated coastal elegance, akin to that of Raes on Wategos original site. It breathes new life into the property, imbuing it with her signature refined yet relaxed aesthetic, fusing eclectic, one-of-a-kind pieces that complement the property’s rich history and original architecture, while harmonising with its peaceful, beachside surrounds.
“In designing Raes on Wategos new property, I’ve strived to compliment the design I did on the original Raes, whilst considering the building’s modern substrate,” Johnson said. “At the same time, I wanted to translate some of that lighter-hearted, playful and coastal language that has sensations of the Mediterranean islands and the breezy feel of Byron. I also introduced another newer layer with some notable, iconic vintage design pieces mixed against a collection of my own newly custom designed furniture.”
A resounding testament to Raes unwavering commitment to providing a luxurious guest experience, guests of Raes on Wategos’ second property enjoy the same premium additions as the current venue. This includes in-house chauffeur, with drop-offs in and out of town as well as complimentary arrival and departure transfers in Lexus vehicles.
Raes’ expansion plans are led by Jordy Catalano, alongside general manager Marty McCaig, who has led significant developments for Raes since joining the brand in 2021. Bookings for Raes on Wategos’ second property open in October 2024, with further details to be announced in the coming months.
PROFILE: Read our feature profile piece on Jordy Catalano this Friday in Travel Weekly.
