Salter Brothers Hospitality (SBH) is proud to announce a transformative new chapter for Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa. The beloved Blue Mountains landmark resort will become the second heritage estate to join the prestigious Ardour Hotels & Estates collection, following the recent announcement of Ardour Milton Park Bowral.
Undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation, Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains will be unveiled in 2026 – honouring its legacy while embracing a contemporary vision under SBH, Australia’s leading operator of luxury regional retreat hotels.
A Bold Second Chapter for the Ardour Collection
Born from SBH’s vision to curate Australia’s most exceptional heritage-rich retreats, Ardour blends historic character with modern sophistication. The addition of Lilianfels reflects SBH’s ambition to redefine regional travel experiences and set a new benchmark for Australian hospitality.
CEO of Salter Brothers Hospitality, Tash Tobias, said, “The addition of Lilianfels to the Ardour Hotels & Estates collection is a powerful expression of our vision, it’s about crafting exceptional hotels and estates and a new guest experience in regional destinations that is a deeply meaningful and modern expression, honouring heritage and connection to place.”
Honouring a Blue Mountains Icon with a Rich Legacy
Originally built in 1889 as the summer residence of eminent Chief Justice, Sir Frederick Darley, Lilianfels became one of the Blue Mountains most celebrated retreats in the early 1990s. Its next chapter will be guided by acclaimed design firm, Luchetti Krelle who are drawing inspiration from eccentric English garden estates while sensitively honouring Lilianfels heritage.
The refurbishment will see:
- Reception and lounge area retaining their signature charm, with refreshed interiors and iconic fireplaces
- A reimagined bar, extended to include a striking wine wall and intimate private dining room
- 89 guest rooms and suites redesigned in three bold yet elegant palettes blending heritage tones and contemporary colour, custom print textiles and statement furniture for a playful sophistication.
Beyond the accommodation, the resort will offer elevated dining, refreshed event spaces and enhanced wellness facilities, reinforcing its status as a premier destination in the Blue Mountains.
“Lilianfels has a unique place in the heart of the Blue Mountains community and Australia’s hospitality heritage,” said Sandra Kloprogge, Regional General Manager overseeing the transformation. “The integration of this respected resort into the Ardour Hotels & Estates collection marks a pivotal moment — a thoughtful renewal that respects its history while setting a new standard for luxury, wellness, and immersive guest experiences in the region.”
A Growing Legacy of Luxury Regional Retreats
Lilianfels will remain open during the renovation period commencing August 22nd, with carefully staged work to ensure the resort continues to welcome guests with minimal disruption. Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains is slated for an official opening in mid-2026, further expanding Salter Brothers Hospitality’s visionary portfolio. The Ardour Hotels & Estates brand is set to become synonymous with immersive, heritage-rich luxury escapes in Australia’s most breathtaking regional destinations.
