Opulent Daylesford hotel hits the market after a multimillion-dollar facelift
Hotel Bellinzona, an elegant Daylesford landmark since the early 1900s, has been listed for sale following an extensive makeover and expansion to revive its old-world splendour.
The Houses Hotel Group acquired the hotel in 2019 and spent more than a year renovating it before reopening it as a 63-room deluxe destination in the heart of Victoria’s Spa Country, just 75 minutes’ drive north-west of Melbourne.
The tenanted property is now available as a rare investment on the region’s main strip, on the market for $16 million.
Listing agent Hugh Thomas of ResortBrokers said this is a “genuine turnkey opportunity” with all the hard work already done by the vendors.
“For investors, there’s simply nothing comparable in Daylesford. At 63 keys, Hotel Bellinzona is the largest hotel in the area,” Thomas said.
“In terms of quality, Hotel Bellinzona is a premium luxury offering that perfectly complements why people come to Daylesford in the first place — to relax and unwind, and luxuriate in its mineral springs. It is tailor-made for Melbourne’s sophisticated corporate and leisure travellers.
“We already has significant interest in this listing, so interested buyers should get in while they can. There’s nothing of this calibre at this scale in Daylesford.”
The facelift expanded Hotel Bellinzona’s offering to include accommodation, dining, events, and conference capacity.
High-end additions include a 160-seat gourmet restaurant, a lavish bar, and conference and event spaces that can accommodate as many as 650 guests.
Hotel Bellinzona’s combined event and catering functions make it ideal for weekenders, yoga retreats, corporate retreats, weddings and board meetings.
Thomas said the property is being sold as a freehold going concern, so the incoming purchaser can continue with the management team in place or bring in their own.
“The hotel is exceptionally well run by a general manager who leads a team of high-quality and loyal staff, who have indicated they would like to continue through a change of ownership. This will ensure a smooth transition for the new owner,” he added.
The property’s three complementary revenue streams – occupancy, fine dining and conferencing – delivered a net profit in excess of $1.81 million last financial year.
There is also the ability to add rooms to the significant land holding of around 1.2 hectares.
Hotel Bellinzona is located at 77 Main Road, between the historic spa towns of Hepburn Springs and Daylesford.
The stunning Wombat State Forest serves as a backdrop, and the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa – another destination for luxurious holidaymakers – is just a short walk away.
Daylesford is a popular choice for Melburnians seeking an escape to the country, drawn to its character, natural beauty and high-end amenities.
It is easily accessible by car or by train, with its own station in the centre of town.
