Aussie lodge named ‘world’s most promising hotel’

Words by Simone Mitchel for Escape.com.au

On a windswept stretch of limestone cliffs on Kangaroo Island’s southern coast, one of Australia’s most celebrated luxury lodges has just been recognised on the world stage. Southern Ocean Lodge has been named the winner of the American Express Travel One To Watch Award 2025, ahead of The World’s 50 Best Hotels announcement later this month in London.

This award is reserved for a rising-star property that has captivated industry insiders and is seen as having the potential to break into the coveted Top 50 in future years.

Rising from the wildfires

Five years ago, Southern Ocean Lodge was reduced to rubble when bushfires tore through Kangaroo Island. For many travellers, the loss of the property was a big blow – it had long been regarded as a pioneer of experiential luxury in Australia, a place where rugged wilderness and refined design met in harmony.

Owners James and Hayley Baillie turned to architect Max Pritchard – a Kangaroo Island native who had designed the original lodge – to lead its resurrection. What followed was a sensitive and extensive rebuild that honoured the lodge’s original footprint while pushing sustainability and guest experiences forward.

Today, the new Southern Ocean Lodge looks both familiar and fresh. The dramatic “Great Room” once again anchors the property, its floor-to-ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views of the wild Southern Ocean. Organic finishes, curved lines and natural stone echo the island’s landscapes, ensuring the lodge still feels deeply embedded in its setting.

Sustainability at its core

The rebuild provided an opportunity to integrate forward-thinking environmental initiatives. Rainwater capture, solar power, sprinkler systems, smart building materials and the planting of 45,000 biodiverse native plants all form part of its renewed commitment to sustainability.

A sense of place

Beyond the architecture, the lodge celebrates Kangaroo Island itself. Dining highlights the island’s terroir, with local ingredients taking pride of place on the plate. A walk-in wine cellar champions South Australian labels, while spa treatments showcase homegrown ingredients like eucalyptus, lavender and honey.

Industry praise

The award has been met with enthusiasm from global travel leaders. Emma Sleight, Head of Content at The World’s 50 Best Hotels, praised the lodge’s “inspiring and heartfelt story,” noting that it not only celebrates its original spirit but also looks to the future through sustainable design and collaboration with local talent.

Michael Crawford, CEO of Baillie Lodges, said the recognition was a testament to resilience. “From world-class design to heartfelt hospitality, Southern Ocean Lodge embodies creativity and the spirit of place. From ashes can rise something truly remarkable,” he said.

American Express Travel President Audrey Hendley echoed the sentiment, calling the lodge “a truly unique experience rooted in the local culture and environment of Kangaroo Island.”

Looking ahead

The property will officially receive its award on October 30 at London’s Old Billingsgate, when the 2025 edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels is unveiled.

For now, the recognition confirms what many Australian travellers already knew: Southern Ocean Lodge is not just back – it’s better than ever, and ready to inspire a new generation of visitors to fall in love with Kangaroo Island’s wild beauty.

This article originally appeared on Escape.com.au as Aussie lodge named ‘world’s most promising hotel’