Darwin Airport Resorts, Australia’s first airport resort, is entering a new phase with the addition of villas, executive suites and a Californian boho-inspired dining venue.
Owned by Airport Development Group (ADG)and managed by Accor, Australia’s largest hotel operator, the $41 million transformation integrates the Novotel, Mercure and ibis properties into a single, resort-style destination. A 65-metre lagoon pool (one of the country’s largest) now sits at the heart of the property, alongside a consolidated reception, lounge area and alfresco Splash Café. Indigenous artwork, design elements and an on-site Indigenous Training Academy honour the resort’s connection to Larrakia Country.
Darwin Airport Resort
Villas and suites with a Top End feel
Eight new Rapid Creek Villas have been built, including three two-bedroom and five one-bedroom options. Each contemporary villa offers up to 49sqm of space with a king bed (that can convert to twin), a lounge and kitchen area, and a covered deck with a daybed overlooking the bush. They face the Rapid Creek Conservation Reserve (Gurumbai in the Larrakia language), Darwin’s only natural freshwater creek, where a self-guided trail introduces visitors to bush tucker, medicinal plants and local culture.
The Novotel has also debuted five executive suites as part of a full accommodation refresh. These 55sqm suites feature a king bed, large lounge and entertaining area, 55-inch Chromecast TV, double glazing and views of either the lagoon pool or the airport.
A major new attraction for both travellers and locals is the Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen, a 170-seat Californian boho-themed restaurant with Top End flair. Overlooking the lagoon pool, beer gardens and Larrakia murals.
Laurence “Loulou” Lochouarn
The venue is led by French-born chef Laurence “Loulou” Lochouarn, previously head chef at Darwin’s renowned Char Restaurant.
The menu blends Northern Territory produce and Californian influence — think Humpty Doo barramundi with corn mash, fresh slaw and smoked tomato picante — complemented by local beers, tropical cocktails and a climate-friendly wine list.
Graduates from the Indigenous Training Academy will play key roles in the restaurant’s operations.
General Manager Raymond Bragg said the upgrades respond to strong visitor demand and increased air services to Darwin.
“We have enjoyed one of the strongest peak seasons in many years. The creation of an airport resort has captured the imagination of travellers and locals alike,” Mr Bragg said. “Our new restaurant will bring something fresh and vibrant to Darwin’s dining scene, while our expanded and refreshed accommodation gives guests a world-class experience without leaving the airport.”
Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer Adrian Williams added:
“Darwin Airport Resorts is transforming the way people experience the Top End. These properties are not just places to stay, they are launch pads for adventure, culture and discovery. This investment helps position Darwin as a world-class destination.”
Novotel Excecutive Suite
NT tourism outlook strong
The upgrades come as the Northern Territory leads the nation in visitor spend growth. Tourism Research Australia reported $1.7 billion in expenditure from more than 1.2 million overnight trips in the year to June 2025, up 13 per cent on spending and 19 per cent on overnight stays compared with the previous year. Domestic overnight visitation surged 21 per cent, while international visitors rose to 227,000, spending $487 million and surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
