Upmarket Balé Port Douglas Opens in Port Douglas

In a bid to raise the bar for high-end accommodation in tropical north Queensland, Balé Port Douglas has opened its doors to astute families, discerning honeymooners as well as the corporate market.

“The 6-star premium property set within15 ha. of natural rainforest vegetation offers just 38 exclusive villas – called sanctuaries – that feature Balinese stylings in total harmony with the environment”, said Alan Porteous, General Manger.

Balé Port Douglas is a new model for the Stella Hospitality Group because of its open living concept and innovative styling, he said.

[Pictured right: All sanctuaries feature massive living areas with the latest audio and video equipment.]

The sanctuaries which have names like Sundaram, Niramaya and Amanitva were prefabricated in Bali of teakwood and stone and sent to Australia in container ships. 

Furnishings like handmade cabinets as well as door frames and window frames are also from Bali and even the distinctive roof shingles were shipped from the Indonesia isle.

The Balinese styled pavilions have open courtyards, outdoor living areas, two BBQ areas and private plunge pools.  The poolside pavilions are attached to a stylish lounge that features LCD TVs, DVD players and sound systems.   

There’s a full kitchen for those wishing self catering arrangements though the luxury resort also has Sassi at Balé, a fine dining restaurant. 

The flagship property for the Stella Hospitality Group was blueprinted by Grounds Kent Architects.  Their other signature works include the Four Season Jimbaran Bay, Bali, Four Seasons Maldives Day Spa, Tanuova Bay Resort Fiji and the Royal Resorts in Koh Samui and Bali.

[Pictured left: The 38 Balinese styled pavilions were built of teak and stone.]

Special opening rates applicable from August 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008 begin at $900 per night for a 1 bedroom sanctuary and rise to $1800 for a 4 bedroom sanctuary. 

Rates include accommodation, full breakfast, a daily mini spa treatment per adult and VIP children’s amenities.  Details and photos of the property can be obtained through the Peppers Group website: www.peppers.com.au/bale-resort  

Branded as a premium product within the Peppers portfolio, this is the first Balé property in Australia with Balé Mt Hotham due to be the second.

This is the second Peppers branded property in Port Douglas following the acquisition of The Beach Club in February.  Reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa, this 85 room garden surrounded property is centred around a large lagoon pool. 

Exclusive Report by Thomas E. King, TravelMole’s Travel and Lifestyle Editor