Guided by a bold new vision, this heritage-listed retreat has written its next chapter.
Long considered one of the most prestigious addresses in the Blue Mountains, Lilianfels has always maintained its rank among the region’s top stays. But even icons must evolve with the times.
In a move that will ensure its future is as impressive as its past, the hotel has undergone a multimillion-dollar refurbishment and reopened as part of the prestigious Ardour Hotels & Estates portfolio.
The transformation of Lilianfels
Originally built in 1889 as a summer residence for NSW Chief of Justice Sir Frederick Darley, Lilianfels carries a fascinating history. Found on the outskirts of Katoomba, the property once served as a rural retreat for high society, welcoming guests like the Duchess of York and Australia’s first prime minister, Sir Edmund Barton.
Like most private estates of the time, Lilianfels was eventually sold to hoteliers in 1992, who transformed it into accommodation, adding an 85-room wing. Now, the resort has evolved once again; its second refurbishment in over 130 years.
Due to this enduring legacy, Ardour wasn’t interested in reinventing Lilianfels when it took over the property in 2025. Instead, the luxury accommodation brand, owned by Salter Brothers Hospitality, has maintained the hotel’s storied past while shifting it into the present.
“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," says Tash Tobias, CEO of Salter Brothers Hospitality.
“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."
The transformation of Lilianfels isn’t a first for Ardour, either. Earlier this year, the Australian-based brand unveiled Ardour Milton Park Bowral to widespread acclaim, setting the benchmark for its next chapter.
Where is Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains?
Perched above the Jamison Valley in the town of Katoomba, Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains is just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, with free parking available onsite. Ideal as a weekend or short-break destination, it also acts as a convenient luxury base or access point for exploring the Grand Cliff Top Walk, which passes right by the property.
Style and character
While Ardour’s vision was guided by preservation rather than reinvention, guests will notice plenty of changes throughout the property. The redesign was delivered in collaboration with Sydney-based firm Luchetti Krelle, which drew inspiration from England’s eccentric garden estates to honour Lilianfels’ heritage.
All 89 guest rooms and suites have been reimagined through a contemporary lens and this refreshed feel extends into the hotel’s common areas, where a modern wine wall and revamped reception create a sophisticated look.
We are greeted by a warm welcome from staff, who seem happy to show off the hotel’s shiny new look and help us make the most of our time in the mountains.
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What facilities are on offer?
Between its spectacular setting and state-of-the-art spa, Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains delivers a stay naturally grounded in wellness.
The property has an indoor and outdoor pool, a fully equipped gym, tennis court and complimentary bike hire.
And it can connect guests to some of the Blue Mountains’ best experiences – from walking the Grand Cliff Top Walk, which winds right past your doorstep, to adventures at nearby Scenic World.
But the hotel’s pièce de resistance is a contemporary luxury day spa opened in August 2026 from contemporary spa brand Èliva, modelled on the wellness experiences at Ardour Milton Park and InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. It offers immersive wellness journey anchored by tailored treatments and luxurious amenities.
A softly lit welcome area in a soothing palette sets the tone for the experience that follows, which might unfold across treatment rooms, a recovery lounge with vibroacoustic bed, traditional saunas, steam rooms and mineral pools.
Choose from a range of treatments divided between the brand’s three core pillars – Rest, Recovery and Invigorate.
Botanical blends featuring native ingredients and aromas inspired by the region are incorporated into the treatment; we select the eucalyptus-infused Blue Mountains oil, which our therapist mixes with arnica to aid with hike-weary muscles.
Èliva Blue Mountains is open to both in-house guests and day visitors.
What are the rooms like?
All 89 guest rooms and suites have been given a Luchetti Krelle makeover, offering a bold, contemporary take on the English garden estate aesthetic that underpins the property’s heritage. Arranged across three distinct colour palettes, each features bespoke bedheads, custom textiles, statement furniture, marble-topped joinery and Grown Alchemist amenities.
Room types include classic Estate Rooms, Signature Rooms with a bushland aspect, Greenhouse Rooms and a Greenhouse Suite set apart from the main accommodation wing for increased seclusion and privacy. Ardour Suites offer a separate lounge and bedroom while a standalone two-bedroom accommodation, The Cottage, is also available to book for up to four guests, making it a perfect choice for families and small groups.
Our Signature Room looks out over the Blue Mountains and presents an enviable dilemma: stay into make the most of the chic and comfortable room (a colour combo of crimson, teal and eucalyptus green with an eclectic array of botanical prints on the wall) or get outside and explore the best of the Blue Mountains. Luckily, a weekend here allows for both.
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