Landmark underwater rooms now a reality as GURNER™ achieves planning approval for $250 million Port Douglas Resort

Multi-billion-dollar developer and lifestyle brand GURNER™ has achieved a planning permit for its second Port Douglas project, a 26,000sqm site at 91 – 113 Davidson Road, that is set to become a landmark “destination” resort and private residences.

With an end value of $250 million, the now-approved resort will bring together 112 hotel rooms across a three-storey building, including the six “underwater” aquarium rooms with a glassed wall creating an underwater visage into the lagoon.

The GURNER™ team worked closely with Douglas Shire over the past 18 months to re-imagine a new level of luxury accommodation for the area, with the developer engaging Port Douglas-based Hunt Design as lead architect to elevate the offering beyond the traditional to create something completely unique to the market.

The result is a landmark resort that’s been inspired by Europe’s best beach clubs, including Saint Tropez and the Greek islands, that centres around its distinctive blue lagoon and features bars and restaurants, a day spa and gymnasium facilities.

The design principles prioritise the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting the opening of the buildings and activation of sheltered external areas for comfortable outdoor living.

The resort will also feature a residential component, consisting of 44 ultra-luxury homes and town homes, with seven different villa types and the ability to provide both short-term and permanent accommodation. Purchasers will have the option of incorporating advanced wellness options that have been curated to promote physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Maintaining a key focus on wellness, which is becoming a hallmark of the Gurner Group brand, the resort is designed as a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul, and is situated amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, offering guests a tranquil escape from the stresses of modern life.

Further wellness inclusions include classes, spa and relaxation amenities, wellness concierge services, fitness facilities, air and water purification and sustainable green spaces that are ecofriendly and energy efficient, which enhances residents’ connection to nature.

The ultra-luxe private residents are set to be priced between $2.5m – $10m, surrounded by over 5,500sqm of private landscaped areas and bookable facilities. Over 30 percent of the 26,000sqm site will be covered in tropical landscaping, with 3,000sqm of shared outdoor amenity.

With a planning permit now in place, the GURNER™ team is expecting to break ground in 2025.

Quotes attributable to Gurner Group CEO, Tim Gurner

“We see this as a huge opportunity for the future of Port Douglas – the incredible area is crying out for some amazing accommodation that highlights its natural beauty, which is what inspired the design of our luxury wellness experience that locals will be proud of.

“Port Douglas is one of my favourite parts of the world – I love holidaying there with my family, and I’m looking forward to seeing this family friendly resort experience come to life and bring more visitors to the area.

“As with all our lifestyle and property projects, we always try to push the boundaries of what is possible – at Davidson Street in Port Douglas there’ll be lagoon-facing underwater rooms, wellness facilities and our signature brand of high-end residences, culminating in a new experience that you won’t be able to get anywhere else in far north Queensland.

“We believe in creating spaces that inspire and elevate the human experience, with this project, we are setting a new standard for luxury hospitality, where wellness is woven into every aspect of the guest experience.

Quotes attributable to Hunt Design Principal, Gary Hunt:

“To be developed and operated by GURNER™ to the group’s exceptional standards, the project will set a new benchmark for Port Douglas while bringing new energy to local industries. We believe it will put the town back on the map as the pre-eminent destination for tourism.

“We have worked closely with the GURNER™ and Douglas Shire Council teams to ensure the finished product aligns with council preferences, and we believe this project will set a new benchmark for luxury accommodation in the region.

“By working closely with the council within the planning scheme and incorporating feedback from stakeholders, GURNER has created a well-rounded application that not only meets regulatory requirements but also addresses the specific wellness needs of the community in a thoughtful and meaningful way.