Award-winning eco-resort in north-west Sydney comes to market

23 March 2022

A private relaxation and nature eco-resort widely regarded as the best wellness retreat in NSW has come to market in Sydney’s north-west.

Billabong Retreat in Maraylya is spread across 4.4 hectares of bushland and features 26 rooms, cabins and deluxe villas as well as a restaurant, main yoga workshop, floating yoga pavilion, spa centre and magnesium pool.

The business has been trading for over 10 years with growth in revenue of 45 per cent over the past five years. It is well-maintained with a regular maintenance program and $1.6 million invested in capital and expansionary upgrades over the past three years.

The award-winning property is listed with the Colliers team of Karen Wales, Gus Moors and George Hudson, with pricing expected to exceed $25 million.

“Spanning nine accommodation styles, Billabong’s 26 rooms and suites are accessible for all guests ranging from the classic cottage to the deluxe villas situated high on the escarpment overlooking the Billabong,” Ms Wales said. “This includes seven new deluxe cabin and terrace rooms which opened in November 2021 and the income from which is yet to be fully realised.  This will provide the incoming purchaser with immediate upside in a strong demand environment.”

“Over the past few years, there has been a shift in consumer demand not only at the Property but also across the Wellness industry, resulting in strong growth in retreat rates,” Mr Moors said. “Total Revenue per Available Room has increased from $443 in FY19 to $551 in FY21 and is projected to increase to $590 in FY22 and $655 in FY23, with the addition of the new rooms.”

Billabong offers a variety of wellness programs and retreat packages are fully inclusive of organic vegetarian meals, accommodation, yoga and meditation classes and some spa treatments.  There is further scope to expand the retreat thereby providing opportunities for medium term development upside (STCA).

Its position just 45 minutes from the Sydney CBD makes it well placed to capture increased demand from corporate and day retreats and can accommodate up to 30 guests on these days within the current program framework. 

“While wellness tourism was already a growing sector of the tourism industry, new business opportunities are emerging in the post-COVID context. Wellness tourism post-COVID is expected to focus on holistic perspectives and activities (i.e., yoga, mindfulness and walking in nature) that help enhance the balance between body, mind and spirit,” Mr Hudson said. Billabong Retreat is for sale by expressions of interest closing Thursday, 28th of April at 3pm.