The Property
Southern Ocean Lodge is Australia’s first true luxury lodge. Located on the South Western corner of Kangaroo Island, its 21 impressive suites curve along the limestone cliffs, with uninterrupted views of the ocean. The setting is both dramatic and evocative and you would struggle to find another hotel on earth that is quite as unique.
Who Is It perfect For
Southern Ocean Lodge is perfect for couples or families with older children, as their policy is to allow children of 10 years and over. Those of all ages who have a love of wildlife and conservation will find this their dream destination, as the lodge offers some signature experiences. These include a guided tour of Flinders Chase National Park, a trip to Seal Bay, home of Australia’s third largest colony of Australian Sea Lions and a sunset ‘Kanga’s and Canapés’ evening amongst many other experiences.
Food and wine lovers will also feel at home here as the lodge’s culinary philosophy is to source local produce, to give guests a sense of place. The walk in cellar allows guests to peruse the selection of premium South Australian wines and take them to your table.
What Makes The Property Unique
The two most unique elements about Southern Ocean Lodge are its location and design.
Kangaroo Island is often described as the ‘Australia’s Galapagos’, as it is known for its prolific wildlife and natural beauty, offering a rich concentration of iconic Australian experiences, in a relatively compact area. Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third largest island and just 15km from the mainland, where native kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and echidnas can be found in abundance as well as marine mammals such as sea lions, whales and dolphins, in the surrounding waters.
Southern Ocean Lodge opened in 2008 and was designed by island born architect Max Pritchard. From a distance it resembles the waves of the ocean or layers of the limestone cliffs. All rooms are glass fronted and look out onto the Southern Ocean, giving you a totally immersive feeling.
Our Own Experience
Please note: Very sadly, Southern Ocean Lodge was badly affected by the bushfires in January 2020 and is currently closed for a full renovation. They expect to be open again in late 2022 / early 2023.
Ray stayed at Southern Ocean Lodge in May 2019 and was utterly blown away by the experience. ‘When you arrive at the property you are welcomed into the Great Room, with its breath taking, panoramic views of the rugged coastline, suspended fire place, help yourself bar and walk in cellar. You feel immediately at home. You can’t help but have your breath taken away by the view. As you look out to sea, you know that there is nothing else between you and Antarctica, except for thousands of miles of ocean…….the feeling of solitude is overwhelming.
