NewsBite

First five-star resort planned for Wirra Wirra in McLaren Vale

A five-star, $30 million luxury resort would be built among vineyards in the McLaren Vale under plans lodged with the council. SEE THE IMAGES

Plans for the first five-star luxury hotel in McLaren Vale have been lodged with Onkaparinga Council.

Australian developer Greaton, in partnership with Wirra Wirra, is proposing to build a $30 million resort at the Strout Rd winery.

The resort is planned to be built among the vineyards near the heritage property that once belonged to Wirra Wirra founder Robert Wigley, which would be used as a bridal suite.

An artist’s impression of the proposed $30m hotel at Wirra Wirra in McLaren Vale.
An artist’s impression of the proposed $30m hotel at Wirra Wirra in McLaren Vale.

There would be nine new double-storey buildings built and Sparrow’s Lodge, the vacant building at the winery entrance, turned into a reception area.

A pool, a wellness centre and a function hall would be included in the development.

Wirra Wirra managing director Andrew Kay said the design showed great empathy with existing surroundings.

“To introduce the first five-star resort operation in McLaren Vale is not just a coup for us, but a catalyst for job creation, upskilling and growth in the region,” Mr Kay said.

“The knock-on effect to local businesses and suppliers cannot be underestimated and I look forward to seeing the economic and community benefits from this investment in wine tourism.”

Wirra Wirra managing director Andrew Kay at the McLaren Vale winery. Picture: Tait Schmaal.
Wirra Wirra managing director Andrew Kay at the McLaren Vale winery. Picture: Tait Schmaal.

Greaton managing director Nicho Teng said the resort would be unique in South Australia.

“South Australia, and particularly the McLaren Vale region, well and truly deserves a high-end resort like this,” Mr Teng said.

“We are also very excited to be negotiating with an international wellness-oriented resort operator who also have no current presence in Australia.

“Whilst we are not in a position to reveal who they are just yet, we can say they operate some of the most renowned resorts and hotels around the world.”

In an Australian first, Bangkok/Singapore-based luxury resort architects Blink Design have designed the hotel.

McLaren Vale is located about 40km south of Adelaide and is world-famous for its wineries.

Construction of the resort is scheduled to begin in November 2020 and it is expected to be completed by July 2022.

The incredible d'Arenberg cube

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/messenger/south/first-fivestar-resort-planned-for-wirra-wirra-in-mclaren-vale/news-story/21c8a8efaa6514153155477c43e42835