Southern Highlands hotel reinvents culinary offering ahead of 2026 reopening
by Ruth Hogan
Oct 16, 2025
Ardour Milton Park Bowral has unveiled a revamped food and beverage offering as part of a major transformation currently underway led by Salter Brothers Hospitality.
The estate’s signature restaurant, Horderns, has been relocated to a more expansive light-filled setting looking out onto the historic gardens.
A focal point of the restaurant will be The Chef’s Pass, where guests can watch on as chefs artfully assemble each dish.
The move more than doubles the restaurant’s seating capacity from 38 to 102.
Horderns Restaurant
The refreshed culinary offering will see the introduction of a refined pan-European cuisine, designed for seasonal, shared dining, with select dishes set to be served family-style and finished in front of guests to create a sense of connection and ceremony.
The restaurant will feature two distinct sections – one with vibrant greenery and jewel-toned seating and the other defined by botanical motifs, terracotta and ochre accents, and plush chocolate leather banquettes.
Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Mark Holland (ex-Nomad, Paddington Inn, Box Tree UK), who joined the team in late 2024 with this culinary evolution in mind.
Alastair Beach, Food & Beverage Manager, and Mark Holland, Executive Chef
“Cooking has always been about connection for me – from growing up in my father’s restaurant in Yorkshire, to training under culinary luminaries including Simon Gueller and Marco Pierre White in Europe, or now working with the incredible producers of the Southern Highlands such as Snake Creek Beef, Bunny Galore Lamb and Pecora Dairy,” said Holland.
“At Horderns, my goal is to create food that feels both comforting and memorable. I want every guest to leave with a memory that stays with them long after they’ve gone.”
The Polo Bar has been reinvented as a relaxed yet sophisticated all-day venue offering small plates, a curated drinks list as well as a dedicated charcuterie room, where guests can enjoy cured meats and artisan cheeses from local producers.
The Polo Bar
The new-look bar features soft blush tones, sculptural timber detailing and intimate seating.
“Together, Horderns and The Polo Bar embody Milton Park’s vision for boutique regional hospitality,” said Ardour Milton Park Bowral General Manager, David McDonald.
“We want to redefine what luxury means in Australia; it’s about slowing down, connection, craft and character.
“The evolution of this storied estate marks the beginning of a new era for regional hospitality, and we look forward to welcoming return guests and first-time visitors.”
Ardour Milton Park Bowral’s multimillion-dollar refurbishment is being led by boutique Sydney design firm Mac Design Studio. Relaunching in early 2026 as Ardour Milton Park Bowral, the property will serve as the flagship Ardour Hotels and Estates – a new collection of immersive luxury retreats in regional destinations.