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A new 9-suite luxury lodge with plunge pools is coming to Uluṟu

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
Front-row views have never looked so magical.

One of Australia’s most iconic landscapes is set to gain another extraordinary vantage point, as Beckons reveals plans for an exclusive new stay on the edge of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Expected to open in early 2028, it’ll be the closest luxury property to Uluṟu yet, pairing its enviable location with the jaw-dropping views to match.

The stay

Launched in March of 2026, Beckons unites a handpicked collection of existing luxury lodges with a growing pipeline of future developments across the globe. Formed through the merger of previously independent brands Baillie Lodges and Tierra Hotels, it now oversees some of Australia’s most exclusive stays.

New luxury lodge by Beckons coming to Uluru, NT
An exclusive new lodge is coming to Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park in 2028.

The newly announced lodge in the Northern Territory marks the first new build for Beckons, joining a portfolio that includes Southern Ocean Lodge, nearby Longitude 131° and Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island, as well as Huka Lodge in New Zealand and Chile’s Tierra Patagonia.

Built in consultation with Traditional Custodians, it will feature just nine guestrooms – eight Desert Suites and one Desert Pavilion – for an intimate and highly personalised experience. Once open, the property will be the closest of its kind to Uluṟu, offering uninterrupted views from a completely new perspective.

Designed by JAWS Architects, the lodge sits low among the dunes adjacent to the national park, with an architectural approach that treads lightly on Country. Colour palettes, tones, textures and materials are all inspired by the Red Centre, further immersing guests in the surrounding landscape.

Longitude 131° in the Northern Territory
Beckons is responsible for many of Australia’s luxury lodges, including Longitude 131°. (Credit: George Apostolidis)

Inside, communal spaces include a restaurant, bar and lounge, while suites will feature a private plunge pool and outdoor day beds. Due to its position among one of the country’s best stargazing locations, Beckons will also provide each guestroom with a luxury swag for private celestial viewing.

The setting

Located roughly 450 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park spans more than 130,000 hectares across the Northern Territory. The protected area is home to a host of natural wonders, including Kata Tjuṯa (The Olgas), Mutitjulu Waterhole and of course, Uluṟu, an ancient sandstone monolith estimated to be over 500 million years old.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT
The landscape carries an enduring sense of magic. (Credit: Tourism NT/Lola and Jira/Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park)

Long considered a bucket-list destination for both Aussie and international travellers, there’s no shortage of ways to experience this iconic landscape. From scenic helicopter flights and intimate sunset dinners to a new multi-day guided hike, visitors can admire the site from almost every angle.

But while the location is spectacular, it also demands profound responsibility and respect. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is a deeply sacred place for the Aṉangu people, the land’s Traditional Owners. More than just a landmark, it’s a living cultural landscape that is intrinsically connected to Tjukurpa (Aṉangu law), ancestral stories and daily life.

Uluṟu Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk, NT
Gain a new perspective on the multi-day Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk. (Credit: Michael Peters)

Recognising this significance, Beckons has been working in close consultation with Traditional Custodians, conducting ecological, heritage and sacred site assessments ahead of construction. According to Beckon’s chief executive officer, Michael Crawford, it’s a collaboration that will extend well beyond the build.

“One of the world’s most powerful and spiritually significant landscapes, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa is an extraordinary place to deepen our presence in Australia and grow our global footprint," says Crawford.

“At Beckons, the most memorable journeys create a genuine connection to place. Here, that means personally guided experiences that reveal the ancient stories of Country and sky, and the living heritage of this remarkable landscape."

New luxury lodge by Beckons coming to Uluru, NT
Each suite will feature First Nations art, a private plunge pool and unrivalled views across the landscape.

Artwork commissioned from First Nations artists will feature heavily throughout the property, while ongoing partnerships with local arts centres encourage meaningful cultural exchange. Beyond the lodge, expert guides will lead outdoor activities like walks and hikes, sharing stories of Country and community along the way.

As construction timelines finalise, prospective guests can expect more details to emerge over the coming months, including the lodge’s official name and opening date. In the meantime, it might be worth keeping the first half of 2028 free.

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Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to check out places like Scotland and North America, her favourite place to explore will always be her homeland.
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8 experiences to restart and inspire your senses for 2026

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
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    Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

    If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

    As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

    1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

    Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory
    Watch the stars come out over five courses.

    Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

    It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

    Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

    2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

    Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience
    Learn stories of the Red Centre at Karrke. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ 75vibes)

    The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

    On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

    3. Kungkas Can Cook

    Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap
    Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

    The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

    Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

    4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

    woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)
    See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

    Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

    Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

    5. Pudakul

    Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours
    Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

    Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

    This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

    6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

    Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise
    Spot the wildlife of the billabong. (Image: Tourism & Events NT)

    Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

    Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

    7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

    artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin
    Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

    A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

    Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

    8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

    woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls)
    Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

    There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

    On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

    Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.