There’s a sense of magic to the Blue Mountains. While the region, just 90 minutes from Sydney, is often relegated to a quick day trip for a photo of the Three Sisters and perhaps a scone with jam and cream, those who linger a little longer know there’s something deeper at play here. There’s an ancientness to the landscape, where towering escarpments and eucalyptus bushland meet grand heritage buildings, and where old-world charm sits comfortably alongside a fresh crop of openings in towns like Leura and Blackheath.

And now, one of the region’s most iconic stays has unveiled a glamorous new look.

The heritage-listed Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa has officially reopened as Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains following a multimillion-dollar refurbishment.

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Perched above the Jamison Valley and just moments from Echo Point in Katoomba, the grand estate has been welcoming guests since the late 1800s. Originally built in 1889 as the summer residence of Sir Frederick Darley, the property is known for its elegant Victorian architecture, manicured English gardens and the kind of old-world atmosphere that feels increasingly rare.

And that character hasn’t disappeared. Instead, it has been carefully refreshed for a new generation of travellers.

The transformation sees all 89 guest rooms and suites reimagined by acclaimed Australian design studio Luchetti Krelle. Expect rich colour palettes, bespoke furnishings and playful nods to English garden estates, all designed to enhance the property’s original personality rather than compete with it.

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Beyond the rooms, there are refreshed common spaces and a new social hub at the heart of the hotel. ‘The Lounge’ is designed for everything from a pre-dinner cocktail to a late-night whisky by the fire, with a menu of elevated comfort food that includes Queensland spanner crab brioche, steak frites and four-cheese truffle sliders.

“Second to the visual transformation, our refined culinary experience is where Ardour luxury will really be felt by guests,” says wewly appointed Executive Chef, Kam McManamey.

“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.”

For those who like their getaways with a side of indulgence, there are also a host of luxe food experiences on offer. Think caviar service, a roaming cheese station showcasing seasonal local produce and an elevated take on the hotel’s much-loved high tea.

The transformation extends to wellness, too, with the property’s spa set to reopen as an Èliva luxury day spa in the coming months.

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There are some beloved Lilianfels institutions that remain untouched, too. Darley’s Restaurant continues as one of the Blue Mountains’ premier fine-dining destinations, while Miss Lilian will keep serving its popular menu of vibrant Southeast Asian flavours.

Combined with misty valley views, heritage grandeur and a renewed focus on food, wine and relaxation, and Ardour Lilianfels embodies the beauty of this part of the world.

Bookings are now open for the new Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains and can be made here.

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