Salter Brothers Hospitality has officially unveiled Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains following a rebrand and a multi-million-dollar transformation, ushering in a new era of contemporary luxury. 

Located in NSW’s Blue Mountains, the 89-room landmark property was previously Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort and Spa and is the second heritage estate in SBH’s Ardour Hotels and Estates collection, following the launch of Ardour Milton Park Bowral earlier this year.

Originally built in 1889 as the grand summer residence of Sir Frederick Darley, the estate holds a storied history as a high-society icon, long celebrated for its late Victorian-early Federation architecture, English gardens and views overlooking the famous Jamison Valley.

“Lilianfels embodies the very essence of Australian mountain luxury. For decades, it has welcomed generations of families, dignitaries, socialites, and celebrities, whilst standing as a beloved icon for the Blue Mountains region. This spectacular legacy is exactly what makes the estate so deserving of this thoughtful transformation,” Salter Brothers Hospitality CEO, Tash Tobias said.

“Our vision for this project was guided by a profound responsibility to honour Lilianfels’ history and preserve its original character, whilst introducing world-class luxury hospitality,” she said. “It is far more than a redesign – it’s an evolution to continue the legacy of this landmark property with a vibrant new chapter.”

Award-winning Australian firm Luchetti Krelle led the property’s design, drawing inspiration from eccentric English garden estates. The refresh includes new colours, striking details and statement furniture to enhance the property’s original character.

The hotel’s rooms and suites feature three unique colour palettes, each embracing a different mood. At the same time, the newly designed reception and common areas include a striking wine wall, new bar, The Lounge, and experiential dining inclusions such as Caviar Service, all of which will offer guests an intimate dining experience. 

Newly appointed Executive Chef, Kam McManamey said the culinary experience and surrounding atmosphere will define much of Lilianfels’ transformation to an Ardour estate. 

“Second to the visual transformation, our refined culinary experience is where Ardour luxury will really be felt by guests. The Lounge has been created to become the heartbeat of the hotel. It’s an entirely new  atmosphere designed to flow between pre-dinner cocktails, a three-course sit-down meal, or a late-night whiskey. Our new menu offers a much more elevated, contemporary take on classics, to blend old and new.”

The hotel’s wellness spa will soon be unveiled as an Èliva luxury day spa and wellness destination, following its launch in both Ardour Milton Park Bowral and InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach.

The estate’s popular dining destinations – Darley’s Restaurant and Miss Lilian – remain untouched.