Darwin Airport in Australia’s Northern Territory has launched as Australia's first-ever airport resort following a AU$30 million (US$19.6 million) reimagination and integration of the adjoining Novotel and Mercure hotels.
The hotels – owned by the Airport Development Group (ADG), which also owns Darwin Airport – have been refurbished and upgraded with the creation of new pool villas, suites and bungalows.
Previously, the two hotels had separate reception foyers, but now a combined reception area has been opened, along with a new Olympic-plus sized swimming pool, poolside cabanas, children's aquatic playground, and new poolside dining, set in tropical landscaping.
As part of the 423-room inventory. guests can choose family suites, freestanding bungalows, and new 5-star tropical villas with their own plunge pools. Resort Bungalows are ideal for longer stays, with a veranda and additional space, while two-bedroom apartments are available for family stays.
The new Splash café and bar joins the Cossies Poolside Bar & Bistro, which is situated in tropical gardens and showcases the Territory's famous barramundi as well as grills, salads, pizzas and burgers.
As part of the hotel redevelopment, extensive Indigenous art has been incorporated into the design, including two massive murals on the Novotel exterior, while the 41-metre water tower in front of the hotels has been decorated with an Indigenous mural designed to give visitors their first connection to the Indigenous Larrakia people and tell their story.
The resort is a short drive to Darwin city centre and just over an hour's drive to Litchfield National Park, one of the Top End's most popular attractions.