Nestled high above the misty valleys and ancient escarpments of the Blue Mountains, Lilianfels has long stood as a symbol of refined elegance and storied heritage. Now, this beloved landmark is preparing for an extraordinary new chapter.
Salter Brothers Hospitality (SBH) has announced the iconic estate will become the second property to join the prestigious Ardour Hotels & Estates collection, following the celebrated addition of Ardour Milton Park Bowral.
With a multi-million-dollar transformation underway, the reborn Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains is set to unveil its grandeur in 2026 - a seamless weaving of history, luxury and modern sophistication.
A Vision of Heritage Reimagined
At the heart of this transformation lies the Ardour philosophy, conceived by SBH to curate Australia’s most exceptional heritage-rich retreats. Ardour represents more than luxury accommodation; it is an invitation to experience history anew, where character-filled architecture meets contemporary artistry.
For SBH, this addition is not simply an expansion - it is a bold expression of intent:
"The addition of Lilianfels to the Ardour Hotels & Estates collection is a powerful expression of our vision,” says SBH CEO, Tash Tobias. "It’s about crafting deeply meaningful experiences that honour heritage, celebrate connection to place and offer modern luxury in regional Australia.”
Honouring the Legacy of Lilianfels
The story of Lilianfels began in 1889, built as the Summer residence of Sir Frederick Darley, an eminent Chief Justice of New South Wales. More than a century later, it became one of the region’s most cherished retreats, welcoming generations of travellers seeking both grandeur and tranquillity.
Its next chapter will be brought to life by acclaimed design firm Luchetti Krelle, whose vision draws upon the eccentricity and charm of English garden estates while remaining deeply respectful of Lilianfels’ heritage.
The reimagining will see reception and lounge areas retain their old-world charm, with glowing fireplaces and timeless interiors refreshed to embrace warmth and intimacy. A strikingly expanded bar will showcase a feature wine wall and private dining enclave, offering moments of connection over fine food and drink.
Across its 89 guest rooms and suites, three bold yet elegant palettes will blend heritage tones with contemporary colour, bespoke textiles and statement furniture - creating spaces that exude playful sophistication while remaining rooted in tradition.
Beyond its walls, guests will discover elevated dining, reinvigorated event spaces and enhanced wellness facilities - ensuring Lilianfels continues to hold its place as the premier destination in the Blue Mountains.
A Renewal for Generations to Come
For the Blue Mountains community, Lilianfels is more than a retreat - it is a landmark, woven into the region’s cultural and social fabric. Sandra Kloprogge, Regional General Manager, describes the transformation as "a pivotal moment - a thoughtful renewal that respects its history while setting a new standard for luxury, wellness, and immersive guest experiences.”
Renovations began on August 22, carefully staged to ensure guests can continue to enjoy the property throughout the process with minimal disruption.
The unveiling of Ardour Lilianfels in mid-2026 will mark not only the rebirth of a treasured estate but also the continued rise of SBH’s Ardour Hotels & Estates brand, destined to become synonymous with immersive, heritage-rich escapes across Australia’s most breathtaking regional landscapes.
Lilianfels, a place of elegance and memory, is preparing to write its most remarkable chapter yet - one that honours its past while illuminating the future of Australian hospitality.
