
An historic country house hotel in the NSW Southern Highlands is to get a multi-million dollar makeover and a re-branding.
Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa at Bowral will become the first property to open in the Ardour Hotels & Estates collection, Salter Brothers Hospitality announced today.
Milton House will be the inaugural flagship property under new-to-market hotel brand Ardour Hotels & Estates after a $10+ million transformation.
Ardour Hotels & Estates is set to become "a portfolio of immersive luxury retreats".
Originally established in 1910 as a grand country residence, Milton Park has long held its place as a Southern Highlands icon. The estate’s refurb will draw inspiration from the country manors of Europe, but with a modern sensibility.
Milton Park’s signature offerings will evolve with the introduction of a new dining concept, day spa and wellness program yet to be revealed.
Ardour Milton Park Bowral will re-open with 44 guest rooms and an interior transformation designed in two distinct palettes - one in sage greens and the other in cobalt blues.
There will be bespoke wool carpets, marble and walnut finishes, brushed brass accents, and custom-curated minibars. A mural feature wall in every room will pay homage to the estate’s famed weeping beech tree.
Tash Tobias, CEO of Salter Brothers Hospitality, describes the transformation as a statement of intent for what regional luxury in Australia should be.
“Milton Park has always held a special place in the hearts of so many," she said.
"With the Ardour brand, we’re creating something that’s not just luxurious, but deeply meaningful – a place people will come back to year after year. This is a destination where time slows down, and the extraordinary becomes part of the everyday.
“Ardour Milton Park Bowral is not just a new chapter for this estate -it’s a defining moment for regional hospitality.”
General manager David McDonald, who is overseeing the property transformation, said the re-branding will set the benchmark for regional boutique hotels.
“With a commitment to redefining Australian luxury, we’re excited to be transforming Milton Park into
a destination that blends its rich history with modern elegance to deliver an unforgettable guest experience,” McDonald said.
With works currently underway, the official opening of Ardour Milton Park Bowral is anticipated in early 2026.
Salter Brothers operates and manages a portfolio of exceptional, luxury hospitality brands across Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia, including Spicers Retreats and the Bannisters Group.