Darwin Airport Resorts, Australia's first airport resort, is embarking on a massive upgrading program with new villas and executive suites, a refurbishment of existing rooms, and the launch of a Californian 'boho' style poolside restaurant.

Darwin Airport Resorts is owned by Airport Development Group (ADG) and managed by Accor, Australia's largest hotel operator.

ADG has invested $41 million to integrate the three hotels – Novotel, Mercure and Ibis – into a visionary resort destination that reimagines the concept of an airport hotel.

The massive transformation linked the three hotels around a centralised area that includes a 65-metre lagoon style pool – one of the largest hotel pools in Australia – a consolidated reception and lounge area and the alfresco Splash Café.

A feature of the hotel redevelopment has been the inclusion of extensive Indigenous artwork and theming, along with an Indigenous Training Academy, to reflect the property's connection to Larrakia Country.

New Rapid Creek Villas

Eight new Rapid Creek Villas have been constructed – three 2-bedroom and five 1-bedroom villas – with private parking.

The spacious, contemporary-style villas are up to 49sqm in size, with king size beds (than can be split into two singles), lounge area, kitchen facilities and a large, covered deck fronting the bush with a daybed to relax and enjoy the tropical evenings.

The villas overlook tropical bushland in the Rapid Creek Conservation Reserve (known as Gurumbai in the Larrakia language), which features Darwin's only natural freshwater creek. A self-guided walking trail has been established in the reserve that includes information about bush tucker and medicinal plants and the area's cultural and environmental significance.

New Executive Suites

As part of a full refurbishment of accommodation in the Novotel, five Executive Suites have been created offering all the comforts of a Novotel hotel with a resort-style vibe. The stylish suites offer 55sqm of space with king sized bed, a large lounge and entertaining area, 55" Chromecast TV, double glazing, and either views of the lagoon pool or the airport.

Launch of Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen

Darwin Airport Resorts' popularity with both guests and Darwin locals has seen the creation of the Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen, with Californian 'boho' theming and Top End Northern Territory influences to complement the tropical climate.

The restaurant can seat up to 170 diners, inside and outside (under shelter), overlooking the lagoon pool, children's playground, beer gardens and dramatic murals by Larrakia artists.

The menu has been curated by head chef Laurence Lochouarn (aka Loulou), a French born chef who has worked around world, including in Michelin star restaurants and most recently as head chef of Darwin's legendary Char Restaurant.

The Californian-style concept was created to capture the essence of Darwin's tropical lifestyle. Dishes emphasise local seafood with Californian twists such as Humpty Doo barramundi with Corn Mash, Fresh Slaw and Smoked tomato picante.

Local Darwin beers, tropical-inspired cocktails and a wine list designed to complement the food and climate will make the venue a favourite for sundowners.

Graduates and trainees from ADG's Indigenous academy will work extensively in front and back of house roles in the Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen.

General Manager of Darwin Airport Resorts, Raymond Bragg, said the latest additions to the property reflected a growth in demand for quality accommodation and facilities in the Northern Territory's Top End.

“We have enjoyed one of the strongest peak seasons in many years, and with further expansion of direct air services to Darwin Airport, ADG believes there is significant potential to enhance both our accommodation and hospitality offerings,” said Mr Bragg.

“The creation of an airport 'resort' has not only captured the imagination of visitors, but also locals who are utilising the restaurants and leisure facilities because of the resort-style ambience and convenience of our location.

“The new accommodation launched is part of a more extensive refurbishment project that will see all existing rooms refreshed and upgraded, along with new facilities for the conference and events market, which has grown strongly in the past year.

“Our new restaurant will launch of 29 September, and we are very excited about the product. With an outstanding chef, an adventurous menu, and warm tropical ambience, we will be able to offer something fresh and vibrant that both reflects Darwin's lifestyle and differentiates ourselves from other restaurants. It will be an exciting addition to Darwin's dining scene.

“Our goal is to offer a world-class accommodation experience without having to leave the airport!”

Chief Operating Officer of Accor in the Pacific region, Adrian Williams, said he's incredibly excited about what Darwin Airport Resorts is bringing to the Top End.

“Darwin Airport Resorts - home to our Novotel, Mercure and ibis brands - is transforming the way people experience the Top End. These three resorts aren't just places to stay, they're launch pads for adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences. It's about giving travellers a reason to fall in love with Darwin and explore everything the Northern Territory has to offer.

“These new and enhanced offerings will attract more visitors to this incredible part of the world, connecting them to its natural beauty and rich culture. This investment isn't just about rooms and restaurants, it's about creating moments that inspire journeys, spark discoveries, and help Darwin shine as a world-class destination.”

Official Website: https://www.darwinairporthotels.com.au/

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