Perth is on the rise as one of Australia’s most exciting cities, and now Rottnest Island is set to match its energy with the upcoming launch of The Lodge Wadjemup—a $40 million transformation of the beloved former Karma Rottnest site. Led by Social Grounds Hospitality partners Miles Hull and Graeme Dick, brings a new experience to one of Western Australia’s most iconic destinations.
The Lodge Wadjemup takes a refreshing direction. The entrance, located on Digby Drive, opens into a stunning retreat centred around the natural beauty of Rotto’s western horizon. With most of its 100+ hotel rooms and a cutting-edge conference centre facing west, guests will be treated to breathtaking sunsets over Garden Lake, framed by the historic Wadjemup Lighthouse.
Photo by https://www.ria.wa.gov.au/
Dining with a Local Flavour
At Sunsets Bar and Dining, head chef Mat Powell (formerly of Il Lido and Little Creatures) is crafting a Mediterranean-inspired menu, designed to feed up to 500 diners efficiently while maintaining the freshest, most vibrant flavours. Meanwhile, Pelicans Café and Ice Creamery, a grab-and-go concept, offers casual bites and much-anticipated soft-serve ice cream for adventurers on the move.
Beers on tap will celebrate the best of WA alongside Italian favourites like Peroni, while the wine list will highlight offerings from Fogarty Wine Group, a major investor, and other local producers.
Photo by perthisok
Design
Architectural vision from Space Collective Architects balances history with modernity. The heritage-listed former boys’ reformatory and 1970s motel-style rooms have been reimagined in a clean, timeless aesthetic. Think crisp Santorini whites replacing “Rotto orange,” compact yet luxurious layouts, and high-quality finishes befitting the island’s pristine environment.
Photo by perthisok
Rottnest Hospitality
The Lodge Wadjemup marks the beginning of a new chapter for Rottnest Island, this is an entirely new vision—one that’s ambitious, elegant, and sure to be a game-changer for tourism in Western Australia.
As Rottnest continues to grow, The Lodge Wadjemup sets a standard for hospitality. With its innovative design, local partnerships, this development promises to attract not just visitors, but admirers of Western Australia’s bold and progressive spirit.
Photo by perthisok
Perth and WA residents, get ready—this is your next must-visit location.
For booking details and updates, visit thelodgewadjemup.com
Credits: A heartfelt congratulations to Miles Hull, Graeme Dick, Mat Powell, Space Collective Architects, Fogarty Wine Group, and all the incredible collaborators bringing this vision to life.
