Inside the million-dollar renovations at the luxury Baird Bay Experience

The former executive chef of Yotam Ottolenghi’s London dining empire has joined a SA luxury tourism operator as part of a million-dollar upgrade to its offering.

A South Australian tourism operator has relaunched following a million-dollar facelift to its accommodation offering and the addition of an internationally-acclaimed head chef.

The Baird Bay Experience, on the Eyre Peninsula, has completed extensive renovations to its luxurious seaside villas, plus a full revamp of the main facility including a new professional kitchen, as part of an overhaul of the property.

Famed for its wildlife tours which allow visitors to swim with sea lions and dolphins, guests can now also enjoy lunch by South African Calvin Von Niebel, the former executive chef of Yotam Ottolenghi’s London dining empire.

Luxury tour operator The Tailor bought the business, 50km south of Streaky Bay, last year and its managing director Drew Kluska said the renovations would enhance its appeal as a “destination for discerning travellers”.

Baird Bay Experience on Eyre Peninsula has renovated its villas and main facility. Pics: Supplied

Managing director Drew Kluska said the renovations would enhance its appeal as a “destination for discerning travellers.” Pics: Supplied

“I cannot wait to connect our guests with the untouched beauty and rich biodiversity of the Eyre Peninsula,” said Mr Kluska.

“The renovated villas and the elevated sea lion and dolphin tours, complete with a regionally

inspired culinary offering, mark a significant moment for Baird Bay and cements it as a bucket list experience in Australia’s tourism landscape.”

The two self-contained villas include a two story four-bedroom offering, starting at $750 a night, and a single story three-bedroom option for $700 a night. Redesigned by SA’s Jacqui Dunn, the villas are joined by a communal outdoor lounge, BBQ area and pool.

Mr Von Niebel said his dishes would highlight the “rich culinary heritage” of the Eyre Peninsula.

Baird Bay will have beautiful cuisine on offer. Pics: Supplied

Famed for its wildlife tours which allow visitors to swim with sea lions and dolphins. Pics: Supplied

The villas will be available for an all-inclusive experience which include dedicated guides, and private chef. Pics: Supplied

Bookings are now available at bairdbay.com. Pics: Supplied

“Dining at Baird Bay is an experience set against the backdrop of stunning natural locations with an approach to food that remains simple yet exceptional,” said Mr Niebel, was previously in charge of the Ottolenghi group’s seven dining venues in Britain.

“We focus on informal dining where the quality of produce and the purity of flavours shine through.”

The villas are also available for an all-inclusive experience which include dedicated guides, a private chef, and a tailored tour program.

Bookings are now open at bairdbay.com