Sequoia Lodge, on the grounds of Mount Lofty House, officially opens with one-of-a-kind experiences for visitors
A six-star luxury lodge on Mt Lofty will officially open on Wednesday with a signature range of experiences revealed for the first time. See inside and what’s on offer.
Adelaide Hills
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A private tour of the RM Williams factory and exclusive tasting sessions with SA’s best winemakers are among the one-of-a-kind experiences on offer at the new $20 million Sequoia Lodge.
The six-star luxury accommodation in the Adelaide Hills will officially launch on Wednesday after more than a year of delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Located on the grounds of Mount Lofty House, the 14 high-end suites overlooking the Piccadilly Valley were completed last year and now the finishing touches have been placed on public areas including the reception area, dining room, spring-fed hot pools, lounge and bar.
A series of signature experiences available only to lodge guests will be unveiled on Wednesday.
These range from a behind-the-scenes tour of RM Williams’ Adelaide workshop complete with a pair of custom-fitted boots, to VIP visits via helicopter to iconic wineries such as Penfolds and Henschke Wines.
There’s also a luxury driving session where guests can take a Ferrari or Lamborghini for a spin around the Hills. The unique offerings range in price from $1500 to almost $3800.
Three new spring-fed hot pools including an infinity pool with 180-degree valley views, an on-site day spa and guided nature walks are among the complimentary experiences available.
Owner David Horbelt said the lodge was initially aimed at luring wealthy international and interstate travellers, but given border restrictions, has been strongly supported by the SA community.
“We thought it would be really tough times but it’s been hugely popular with the local market,” he said.
“It's all about experiencing the best SA has to offer. Adelaidians have really wanted to come up and experience it - it’s been amazing.”
Mr Horbelt said guests have been raving about the new escarpment suites, which range in price from $1000 to $1200 a night per couple.
“The feedback ... has been that we now set the benchmark,” he said.
“Even the previous owners of Great Southern Ocean Lodge (on Kangaroo Island) came through and they were blown away by what we’ve done.”
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