When you think of a dreamy resort holiday, Darwin might not be the first place that springs to mind – let alone an airport resort. But Australia’s first airport resort in the Northern Territory capital is about to change that, with a major makeover featuring new luxe villas and suites, upgraded rooms and the launch of a boho-inspired poolside restaurant.
Darwin Airport Resorts is a first-of-its-kind airport hotel in Australia, bringing together three major hotels – Novotel, Mercure and ibis – into one incredible resort destination. This $41 million project connects the properties around a centralised hub, featuring a 65-metre lagoon-style pool – one of Australia’s largest hotel pools – a consolidated reception and lounge area, and the alfresco Splash Café.
As part of the refurbishment, eight new Rapid Creek Villas have been built at the Mercure, overlooking lush tropical bushland in the Rapid Creek Conservation Reserve – home to Darwin’s only natural freshwater creek. The spacious, contemporary villas feature king beds, a lounge area, kitchen facilities and a large deck with a daybed to relax and enjoy the tropical evenings. Adding to the experience, a self-guided walking trail within the reserve provides information about bush tucker, medicinal plants and the area’s cultural significance.
At the Novotel, five stylish Executive Suites have been unveiled, blending classic hotel comforts with a relaxed resort vibe. Each suite features a spacious lounge and entertaining area, plush king beds, a 55” Chromecast TV, double-glazed windows, and views overlooking either the lagoon-style pool or plane terminals. Airport stays don’t get much better than this.
No resort is complete without a standout spot to dine, and Darwin Airport Resort’s new Poolhouse Bar and Kitchen delivers exactly that. Bringing a relaxed California boho vibe to the Top End’s tropical climate, the 170-seat restaurant offers a mix of indoor and outdoor seating with views of the lagoon pool, playground, beer garden and striking murals by Larrakia artists.
French-born chef Laurence Lochouarn – who’s worked in Michelin-starred restaurants around the world and most recently as head chef of Darwin’s legendary Char Restaurant – has crafted a menu spotlighting local seafood with a Californian twist. Picture yourself at sunset, savouring Humpty Doo barramundi with corn mash, fresh slaw and smoked tomato picante, alongside a local Darwin beer or tropical-inspired cocktails.