Surging Luxury Investment and Ultra-High-Net-Worth Demand Drive Competition for Trophy Island Assets
Savills ANZ has been appointed to sell Rumi on Louth, a luxury eco-resort located on one of Australia’s few freehold private islands, with approval in place for a significant expansion to a total of 49 accommodation keys and associated tourism infrastructure.
The appointment comes amid strong global investor demand for luxury hospitality assets, driven by rising capital allocation and constrained new supply. MSCI Real Capital Analytics reports that global luxury, upscale and resort hotel investment reached nearly A$9.2 billion over the year to Q2 2026, 26 per cent above the decade average. Portfolio investment increased 45 per cent year-on-year to A$5.0 billion and represented 54 per cent of total volume.
Against this backdrop, competition among ultra-high-net-worth individuals for trophy lifestyle and hospitality assets is intensifying, particularly for private islands in Australia.
Nicholas Lower, Managing Director, Hotel Capital Markets, Savills ANZ, said the local market remains tightly held.
“Most assets are structured as leasehold, making Louth Island distinct in offering freehold title at scale and proximity to the mainland,” Mr Lower said.
Rumi on Louth has been purposefully developed into a premium luxury tourism destination, with established hospitality credentials and significant future growth potential.
The island is the vision of entrepreneur and Uniti Group co-founder Che Metcalfe and his wife Natasha Metcalfe, who acquired the property in 2021. Under their ownership, it has been transformed into a boutique luxury retreat comprising six premium guest suites, positioning the island among South Australia’s leading luxury tourism destinations.
The property benefits from development approval from the State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) for a significant expansion program, including 43 additional accommodation keys, a full-service day spa, expanded solar infrastructure and a range of ancillary recreational facilities.
“With approvals already secured, the incoming purchaser will have a clear pathway to scale the asset and unlock long-term value,” Mr Lower said.
A key pillar of the property’s appeal is the acclaimed two-hatted Samphire Restaurant, which operates as a standalone destination dining experience. Showcasing the Eyre Peninsula’s renowned produce and culinary identity, the restaurant attracts both visiting guests and external diners, strengthening Rumi on Louth’s position within Australia’s luxury food tourism sector.
The resort is supported by substantial off-grid infrastructure, including a 500kW solar power system, desalination plant, advanced waste management facilities and sewage treatment systems. The fully self-sufficient operating model aligns with growing global demand for sustainable, experience-led luxury tourism.
Louth Island spans 135.16 hectares and is located within Spencer Gulf, approximately three kilometres from the South Australian mainland at Louth Bay. The island is readily accessible from Port Lincoln, situated just 17.5 kilometres away and serviced by regular regional aviation connections for domestic and international visitors.
The property will be offered for sale via an Expressions of Interest campaign by agents Nicholas Lower and Niall Kumar.
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