Laval Hunter Valley: Major New Luxury Resort Announced for Historic Lindeman Estate
A landmark tourism development is set to reshape the Hunter Valley, with private hotel owner and developer HVL Hotels announcing Laval Hunter Valley—a new 65‑key luxury resort to be built on the historic 165‑acre Lindeman Estate in Pokolbin. Scheduled to open in the second half of 2027, Laval represents the most significant new-build luxury accommodation project in the region in more than two decades.
Positioned as “an international hotel, made in Australia,” Laval aims to elevate the Hunter Valley’s profile on the global tourism stage by attracting a new segment of high‑end domestic and international travellers. The resort is expected to generate approximately $49 million per year in economic activity and create up to 479 jobs across construction and ongoing operations—marking a major economic boost for the region.
A Vision for a New Era of Luxury Tourism
HVL Hotels Managing Director Dominic Lambrinos said the project fills a long‑identified gap in the region’s luxury accommodation offering while setting a new benchmark for experiential travel.
“Laval is more than the answer to a longstanding gap in the Hunter Valley’s luxury accommodation segment. It represents an ambition to do something that hasn’t been done before, on the most magical piece of land within the valley,” Lambrinos said.
He added that building the resort from the ground up allows the team “complete freedom to shape our vision… designed so our guests can experience the joy of feeling something new.”
A Resort Shaped by Landscape and Legacy
Located on the former Lindeman’s Estate and Ben Ean Estate, Laval will sit atop a serpentine ridgeline offering 360‑degree views across vineyards, valleys and rolling rural terrain. A private helicopter landing facility will provide fly‑in access and sweeping aerial perspectives of the region’s iconic viticultural landscape.
The guest experience is designed as a journey along the natural contours of the site. Landscape architect Lisa Howard of TCL has created a series of immersive outdoor spaces that transition from structured gardens to increasingly abstract, dreamlike formations. Visitors will encounter meadows, meditation areas, a Wollemi pine grove, immersive art installations, and a striking 25‑metre red‑tiled pool positioned beside the Shiraz vineyard.
A major ecological regeneration program will see 6,782 vines and 21,000 plants—including 300 species—introduced across the estate to restore its agricultural character and enhance biodiversity.
Bold Architecture, Sculptural Interiors and Seamless Technology
Laval will feature 65 pavilion‑style villas, including a Wabi Sabi‑inspired Presidential Villa by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, each designed to frame uninterrupted views from the moment guests enter. Architecture by EJE Architects and interiors by Some Studio will blend sculptural forms with the warmth and personality of residential design.
Technology will be integrated throughout the resort in partnership with Bang & Olufsen, marking the brand’s only resort collaboration in the southern hemisphere. A fluid arrival system supported by “Everywhere People” will allow guests to check in anywhere on the property and access personalised butler service.
One of the World’s Largest Gillie & Marc Collections
Laval will house one of the world’s largest collections of works by renowned artists Gillie & Marc, including 13 major outdoor sculptures, more than 130 in‑room pieces, and digital artworks. Guests can explore the collection independently or join curated art tours guided by the artists’ signature characters, Rabbitwoman and Dogman.
A monumental bronze installation, The Wild Banquet of Love, will sit beneath a 175‑year‑old fig tree, inviting guests to join Rabbitwoman, Dogman and a gathering of endangered animals at an interactive dining experience.
A Culinary Program Led by Justin North
Celebrated chef Justin North will lead Laval’s culinary direction, emphasising regional provenance, intentional contrasts and generous hospitality.
The resort’s signature restaurant, Vallery, will offer an evolving à la carte menu inspired by Mediterranean expressions of Provence, coastal Spain and Southern Italy, with subtle Japanese influences. An onsite kitchen garden will supply heirloom produce and botanicals for both the restaurant and immersive communal dining events.
Poolside venue La Vida will deliver a vibrant Cali‑Mex dining experience, transitioning from relaxed daytime meals to sunset drinks, DJ‑led afternoons and lively evening gatherings. The Lobby Bar will serve as the resort’s social hub, offering curated beverages and share plates.
Honouring a 185‑Year Winemaking Legacy
Situated in Australia’s oldest viticultural landscape, Laval will continue the site’s 185‑year winemaking heritage with a wine program curated by Jon Osbeiston. The offering spans a 10,000‑bottle cellar and a 1,000‑strong wine list, featuring rare collections, Coravin by‑the‑glass access and a strong focus on Hunter Valley Shiraz and Semillon.
A World‑Class Wellness Sanctuary
The resort’s Veraia Spa will be a 1,000‑square‑metre, two‑level wellness sanctuary featuring 15 treatment rooms, thermal circuits, regenerative therapies and medical‑grade treatments not previously available in Australia. Designed by Nikki Lambrinos, the spa will offer panoramic vineyard views, sensory gardens, meditation meadows and yoga platforms.
A 100‑square‑metre NOHRD‑equipped gym will provide functional training with expansive views connecting movement to landscape.
A Transformational Project for the Hunter Valley
With its ambitious scale, global design partnerships and deep connection to place, Laval Hunter Valley is set to redefine luxury tourism in the region—ushering in a new era for one of Australia’s most celebrated wine destinations.
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Tourism Leader Welcomes New Investment in the Hunter Valley
Tourist Australia Managing Director Vincent Borg has welcomed renewed investment in the Hunter Valley, describing it as a significant step forward for the region’s long‑term tourism growth.
Borg said the commitment from developers and industry partners reflects a strong belief in the Hunter Valley’s future as one of Australia’s premier visitor destinations. He expressed “absolute gratitude” for the confidence shown in the region, noting that new projects will help strengthen the local economy, create jobs and enhance the visitor experience.
According to Borg, sustained investment is essential for ensuring the Hunter Valley remains competitive in both domestic and international markets. He said the region’s blend of natural beauty, wine heritage and emerging luxury offerings positions it for continued success.
Borg emphasised that the latest developments mark an exciting new chapter for the Hunter Valley, signalling long‑term benefits for local communities and the broader tourism sector.