Emirates Wolgan Valley To Reopen As The World’s First Ritz-Carlton Lodge

Emirates and Marriott made a splash in Sydney today, unveiling plans to reopen Emirates Wolgan Valley as the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge. The all-inclusive eco-luxury retreat, set within a 7,000-acre conservation reserve in the Blue Mountains, is gearing up to welcome guests by mid-2026. Located around three hours’ drive from Sydney, the property will mark a new chapter in high-end, nature-based hospitality.

Emirates confirmed it will invest a further AU$50 million into an extensive renovation program, in consultation with Marriott. This comes on top of AU$150 million already invested since the resort’s original opening in 2006.

The luxury resort has sat idle for more than two-and-a-half years, following a 2022 landslide that resulted in the closure of the main access road. Once reopened, guests won’t be able to drive to the property themselves, but will instead access the resort through a four-wheel drive service via a steeper, windy road known as the Donkey Steps. Emirates says that guests can also arrive by helicopter for an additional fee.

"It's all part of the immersive experience," says Emirates Australasia Divisional Vice President Barry Brown.

“Demand for authentic purpose-led luxury experiences has never been stronger…Wolgan Valley is uniquely positioned to meet that demand and to strengthen Australia’s and New South Wales’ position on the global tourism stage,” said Mr Brown.

Emirates President Sir Tim Clark described the renovated property as another way the airline seeks to deliver value to its customers, and to Australia.

“We are proud of our long-term investment into the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort which launched one of Australia’s first conservation-based luxury resorts. Our unwavering commitment to the resort leads us to today’s announcement of an exciting agreement with Marriott International to open the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge.”

A New Chapter For Emirates Wolgan Valley

When it reopens as Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge, the resort will feature 40 elegantly appointed villas, each offering private pools and bespoke amenities. Guests will also enjoy an outdoor infinity pool, tennis courts, equestrian stables, a fitness centre, and a Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Plans show the original homestead lovingly restored to serve as an arrival lounge and social hub, complete with a restaurant, lounge bar, and wine room.

For those seeking a closer connection to nature, the lodge will introduce a guided wilderness sleep-out (in other words: camping) under the stars.

Summing Up

From what we’ve seen, the resort will be undeniably stunning. The surrounds are obviously cinematic, while the rooms themselves look every bit as considered. It’s the kind of property that speaks to travellers who want serious comfort without losing that sense of being tucked away in the wilderness.

The lodge will complement The Ritz-Carlton’s existing presence in Australia, with renowned luxury properties in Perth and Melbourne.