Episode 65 Hotel Legends: James and Hayley Baillie of Australia’s Southern Ocean Lodge

James and Hayley Baillie are the creators of Baillie Lodges, a remarkable collection of seven luxury hotels located in diverse locations around the globe…from Australia’s last frontier to the wild west coast of Canada to the serene landscapes of New Zealand. Their journey began in 2003 when the husband and wife duo opened Lord Howe Island’s Capella Lodge. From these roots grew a portfolio centered in the spirit of generosity where guests feel instantly at home. And this year, two decades later, Baillie Lodges celebrates its 20th anniversary where the brand continues to redefine the meaning of nature based tourism. 

Southern Ocean Lodge is the focus of Melissa’s conversation with James and Hayley in today’s episode. Known as the flagship of the portfolio, the property opened in 2008 and quickly emerged as an architectural “pin up” on the remote southwest coast of Kangaroo Island…the lodge is set against the untamed ocean and towering cliffs, an area known as the Galapagos of Australia. The Southern Ocean Lodge story, however, took a turn in 2020 when the original property burned down in the Kangaroo Island wildfires that devastated the island and also swept across mainland Australia in the same year. Yet, from this difficult moment arose an opportunity for rebirth, a chance for James and Hayley to reimagine and rebuild with careful attention to detail honoring the super lodge’s legacy.

In today’s episode, the Baillies share their journey with Melissa, one of passion for nature, sustainability, and premier hospitality. The new Southern Ocean Lodge, which opened on December 6th this year, combines its renowned contemporary design with wilderness and relaxed luxury featuring a view that James describes as just “like a moving painting.” The lodge now holds the largest privately-owned renewable energy system of any Australian hotel, which is just one of the ways the lodge gives back to the environment that it inhabits. The couple’s commitment also extends beyond their portfolio, fostering community partnerships with special local offerings which James and Hayley detail in today’s episode. Tune in to hear the Baillie’s story of resilience and dedication to preserving the natural world that inspires them.

Lighting Round with James and Hayley:

• Favorite view at Southern Ocean Lodge? We love the view from the new Osprey Suite. It’s the suite at the very end of the line of guest suites, and is both very expansive with panoramic views and completely private for guests. The plunge pool and terrace on the lounge offer a chance to guests to really feel at one with this spectacular, wild landscape.    
• Favorite meal at Southern Ocean Lodge? There’s an abundance of fresh seafood on Kangaroo Island so we usually opt for these dishes that pair oysters, fresh fish and shellfish with local ingredients for a real taste of Kangaroo Island. Some local favourites are King George Whiting and also the marron – or freshwater crayfish – that are sustainably farmed by a couple of local producers, one of them Scott Wilson who also created our 125-metre limestone feature wall that’s the backbone of the lodge.
• Most memorable wildlife encounter? There are so many incredible wildlife encounters on Kangaroo Island it’s impossible to name just one! I’m always in awe when I see a kestrel hovering on the ocean air currents outside the lodge, or seeing the Osprey with her chicks in her nest along the Coastal Cliff Top Walk. Seeing sea lion pups seeking out their mums at Seal Bay is always heartwarming and in mating season we sometimes spot an echidna train as the males court their would-be mate.  
• Best season to visit Kangaroo Island? We love the winter, when the Southern Ocean is at its most dramatic and makes for great viewing from the warmth of the Great Room, set in front of the suspended open fireplace with a glass of fine South Australian red wine
• Favorite activity on Kangaroo Island? We love the hikes – especially along a section of the KI Wilderness Trail that stretches from the Remarkable Rocks along the coastline, past Cape Younghusband to Southern Ocean Lodge. It’s a half day walk and with lunch enjoyed along the way it’s a wonderful way to experience the island’s rugged wilderness and stretch your legs!  
• Favorite Australian phrase? She’ll be right, mate!