Northern Queensland offers postcard-perfect Australian weather all year round. World Heritage-listed national parks, pristine beaches, islands and the Great Barrier Reef (to name a few) are all within its borders.
And Townsville, which has long been considered a launch pad to those attractions, upped its game with the reopening of The Ville in 2018. Owned by family-run Australian company Morris Group, The Ville underwent a two-year, $44 million face lift (a total investment worth $114 million).
"The two-year renovation project is a sign of our confidence in the area as a sought-after coastal holiday hotspot as well as a popular destination for corporate retreats,” says The Ville CEO Michael Jones. "We've always had great natural assets here and now we also have a high-quality accommodation offering."
The design, overseen by international firm Woods Bagot, captures the joie de vivre one expects from a tropical getaway. Centred on a raised infinity pool and landscaped gardens, the resort sits on the southern bay of Townsville, capturing views of the city, the Coral Sea and Magnetic Island.
The decor gives a nod to the traditional “Queenslander” (a large timber house on stilts), with painted timber and whitewashed walls in the rooms and suites. The leaf-print carpets, and velvet cushions impart a retro Californian vibe. In fact, The Ville has that kick-back-and-relax beach-shack feel that could just as easily be found in Palm Springs and Miami.
The Ville is nine storeys high, houses 194 guest rooms, five dining options, a pool precinct (with a swim-up bar) and The Pavilion – a 1200-capacity function space. Next door is The Ville casino.
"We're really proud," says Jones. "This really puts Townsville on the map."
The Ville
Sir Leslie Thiess Drive, Townsville
(07) 4722 2333
This article first appeared on Broadsheet on December 12, 2018. Some details may have changed since publication.
