A $30 million development application has been filed to South Australian government officials for the construction of a wellness resort at the Wirra Wirra Winery in the state’s McLaren Vale wine region.
The resort will see 33 luxurious rooms laid out across 10 buildings – nine of which will be two storeys in height and offer 3-4 rooms, each settling in harmoniously with the native tree lines and offering views over the winery. A property once used by Wirra Wirra Founder, Robert Wigley, will be transformed into a Bridal Suite for wedding parties, while the existing Sparrow’s Lodge, which currently sits vacant at the property’s entrance, will be turned into a reception building for guests.
Construction at the resort is due to commence in November next year with a view to completion in July 2022.
Central to the project is property firm Greaton – the same organisation chiefly involved with the development of the W Sydney ‘Ribbon’ project at Darling Harbour. Blink Design Group has also been engaged to help with design, a firm whose portfolio includes luxury Asian developments including the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay and Six Senses Uluwatu.
Greaton management are also in advanced negotiations with a spa and wellness resort operator “with no currently presence in Australia” to manage the new property, the company said.
“The Wirra Wirra resort will be like nothing else in South Australia. We are proud to bring the expertise of an internationally-acclaimed architectural firm that specialises in luxury accommodation to this location. This is their first project in Australia, and I’m honoured to bring them to my home state.”
Wirra Wirra Managing Director, Andrew Kay, said the winery was pleased with the direction the project was taking so far.
“The design is well integrated into the winery site and shows great empathy with our surroundings.
“To introduce the first five-star resort operation in McLaren Vale is not just a coup for us, but a catalyst for job creation, upskilling and growth in the region.”