Situated on the secluded Lord Howe Island, 600 kilometres off the New South Wales coast, Capella Lodge today celebrates twenty years as a trailblazer in Australia’s luxury experiential travel landscape. This intimate nine-suite lodge, perched at the base of the World Heritage-listed Mounts Gower and Lidgbird, offers commanding views of the Tasman Sea and has set an enduring standard for sophisticated, nature-immersed hospitality since its inception in 2004.

Capella Lodge was the inaugural creation of visionary hoteliers James and Hayley Baillie, the founders of Baillie Lodges. Their ambitious vision for redefining luxury in remote, pristine environments began here, on the island’s breathtaking shores, and evolved into what is now an industry benchmark in luxury eco-tourism. Capella’s 20th anniversary also marks the impressive two-decade leadership of lodge managers Libby Grant and Mark McKillop, whose commitment to excellence has made Capella Lodge a beacon of refined hospitality.

From its earliest days, Capella Lodge pioneered a set of core principles that would come to define the Baillie Lodges brand across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. These foundational values, such as ‘first name service,’ ‘barefoot luxury,’ and the ‘spirit of generosity’ created a new standard in guest experiences. These concepts reflect an effortless, yet meticulous, approach to service that invites guests to feel as though they are returning to their own sophisticated holiday retreat.

The lodge’s sleek, contemporary architecture, seamlessly integrated with its natural surroundings, also set a tone for Baillie Lodges’ future properties. By offering guests an easy connection to the outdoors, with expansive views from every suite, dining venue, and terrace, the lodge has mastered a style of understated elegance, what James Baillie aptly calls the “anti-resort.”

Its pioneering spirit, emphasis on place, and focus on delivering exceptional, nature-infused luxury has inspired the evolution of experiential travel both in Australia and beyond. As Capella Lodge celebrates two decades of innovation, it continues to set the stage for the next era of sustainable, luxury travel.

For more information or to make a reservation, click here.