The historic Lilianfels estate in the Blue Mountains, a landmark since its construction in 1889 as a summer residence, has emerged from a significant multi-million dollar renovation as Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains. The revitalized property, located 90 minutes from Sydney, aims to blend its heritage charm with contemporary luxury.
The redesign, managed by interiors studio Luchetti Krelle, has introduced a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic, drawing inspiration from English garden estates. The renovations feature bold color palettes, distinctive details, statement furnishings, and updated accommodations.
Culinary Evolution
A central element of the transformation is the enhanced dining experience, overseen by newly appointed Executive Chef Kam McManamey. The hotel's new central bar and lounge, The Lounge, is designed to be a dynamic space serving cocktails, wines, and elevated comfort food. Menu highlights include four-cheese and truffle sliders, grilled prawns, steak frites, Queensland spanner crab brioche, and a chef's charcuterie board. The Lounge also offers a refreshed high tea and new indulgences such as caviar service and a roving cheese experience.
"Second to the visual transformation, our refined culinary experience is where Ardour luxury will really be felt by guests," McManamey stated. "The Lounge has been created to become the heartbeat of the hotel."
The property's existing restaurants, Miss Lilian and Darley's Restaurant, continue to operate. Darley's remains the signature fine-dining destination, focusing on seasonal, local produce and an extensive wine list.
The breakfast service has also been reimagined, with a new dining space offering a buffet featuring fresh produce, yogurts, fruits, and breakfast treats. À la carte options include health bowls, avocado pretzels, and moringa pancakes.
Wellness and Spa Enhancements
Lilianfels' wellness facilities have been rebranded as Èliva, a luxury day spa and wellness destination. This new offering includes mineral whirlpools, private saunas, steam rooms, premium teas, and a range of treatments.
Notable Local Dining
Beyond the Lilianfels property, the Blue Mountains region offers other notable culinary destinations. Megalong Restaurant at LOT101, situated in the Megalong Valley, provides a farm-to-table experience. Executive Chef and owner Colin Barker leads a team that utilizes produce grown on-site for its six-course tasting menu. The restaurant overlooks the valley's escarpments and bushland.
In Leura, Little Sista, a new venture from the family behind Café Leura, focuses on handmade focaccia sandwiches, coffee, and fresh juices. Popular sandwich options include the "Everything She Wants" and "The Grecko."
Park St. Diner, a Sydney establishment with American diner-style influences, has also gained attention. Known for its brunch and dinner menus, standout dishes include the sausage and egg burger, hash browns, and a notable Filet-O-Fish sandwich. The diner is operated by The Grounds of Alexandria.