Raes on Wategos Expands with the Launch of Raes Guesthouses

Australia’s premier boutique travel destination, Raes on Wategos, is thrilled to announce the official opening of its highly anticipated second property, Raes Guesthouses. Located just steps away from the original hotel, the new property expands Raes’ offering with ten luxurious suites, indoor common areas with open log fireplaces, two lap pools, and tropical landscaped gardens. As Raes celebrates its 30th birthday, the launch of Raes Guesthouses marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the brand.

“Raes Guesthouses have allowed us to build on what we know guests love about Raes: warmth, elegance, and generous hospitality,” says Raes managing director Jordy Catalano. “We’re excited to introduce a fresh yet familiar take on luxury, just in time to celebrate our 30th birthday. This expansion allows us to meet growing demand while preserving the boutique, intimate nature of Raes, with a continued commitment to providing personalised service and an exceptional guest experience.”

A Mediterranean-Inspired Retreat

Raes Guesthouses consist of two adjacent buildings, together housing ten spacious suites. Each suite features a luxurious king-sized bed with a custom-designed bedhead, offering sweeping views of Wategos Beach or the serene garden surroundings. Many suites feature private balconies with sun lounges, while others showcase custom French linen canopies.

Designed by renowned interior designer Tamsin Johnson, the property radiates a relaxed Mediterranean feel. The design incorporates earthen pastels in blues and greens, hand-painted joinery, and vintage-inspired pieces throughout. True to Johnson’s signature style, the space includes custom furnishings, organically molded plasterwork, and mid-century lighting. A mix of carefully chosen materials, from vintage glazed tiles to linen and cane, ensures every detail feels perfectly at home within Byron Bay’s coastal surrounds.

“I wanted to build on the soul of the original Raes property, while thoughtfully adapting to the unique architecture of this space,” says Tamsin Johnson. “The style hints at Spanish-Hollywood and Balearic influences, with added color and a playful coastal aesthetic to set the property apart from the original hotel. Strong materials like marble tie the two properties together, reinforcing a sense of shared personality. Maintaining Raes’ communal spirit was essential, creating a space that feels inviting and familiar to guests.”

Relaxation and Luxury in Every Detail

The property also features two impressive lap pools set amidst lush tropical gardens, offering guests an ideal year-round escape. The western side of the property boasts a 16 x 3-meter pool with a waterfall, while the eastern side includes a solar-heated 12-meter pool, complete with a cabana and lounge area.

Culinary Delights by Executive Chef Jason Saxby

Culinary offerings at Raes Guesthouses further enhance the guest experience, with a new menu created by Raes executive chef Jason Saxby. The menu, available throughout the property, offers a range of snacks, plates, and sweets, with regular updates to showcase seasonal ingredients. Highlights from the opening menu include:

Chilled oysters with Raes signature Australiana dressing
Swordfish katsu sandwich
Spanner crab tagliolini
A creative twist on the classic prawn cocktail, featuring locally-sourced prawns

For dessert, Saxby’s negroni-soaked frozen watermelon promises a refreshing treat best enjoyed poolside.

Exclusive Venue Bookings and Partnerships

Raes Guesthouses will also be available for exclusive venue-wide bookings, with Raes’ dedicated team ensuring every detail is seamlessly executed. Ongoing partnerships with prestigious brands such as Perrier-Jouët will further enhance the luxurious guest experience.

Guests will enjoy direct access to Raes Dining Room, a renowned 2-hatted restaurant located in the original Raes hotel, as well as the alfresco Cellar Bar and the serene Raes Spa, offering a luxurious range of RATIONALE treatments. A dedicated in-house chauffeur service provides complimentary Lexus transfers for arrivals, departures, and local excursions, ensuring a seamless experience throughout their stay.

The opening of Raes Guesthouses marks an exciting new chapter for the iconic brand, offering guests an even more luxurious, intimate, and unforgettable experience at one of Australia’s most sought-after travel destinations.

Check out Raes Guesthouses here.

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