The iconic Wolgan Valley Resort in New South Wales, Australia, is set to reopen in mid-2026 following a new partnership between Emirates and Marriott International. The ultra-luxury property, located within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, will relaunch as Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge—the first Ritz-Carlton Lodge globally.
Marriott International will operate the resort under the Ritz-Carlton brand, while Emirates retains ownership. The redevelopment will include 40 private villas and upgraded central facilities, with a strong focus on conservation, wellness, and immersive nature-based experiences.
The resort has been closed since 2023 due to severe weather and landslides that damaged access roads. Initial access on reopening will be via four-wheel-drive transfers or helicopter, with longer-term solutions under review.
Emirates is investing an additional $50 million into the project, which is expected to create around 150 local jobs and boost regional tourism.
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About the author
Juergen T Steinmetz
Juergen Thomas Steinmetz has continuously worked in the travel and tourism industry since he was a teenager in Germany (1977).
He founded eTurboNews in 1999 as the first online newsletter for the global travel tourism industry.