Berkeley River Lodge has reopened for the 2026 season just five months after Tropical Cyclone Fina damaged part of the luxury Kimberley property, forcing a major rebuilding effort at the remote Australian resort.
The cyclone destroyed five of the lodge’s 20 luxury villas while the property was nearing completion of a three-year refurbishment programme.
Despite the setback, the lodge has now reopened with upgraded facilities, expanded guest experiences and what management describes as a more exclusive and luxurious offering.
Five-Month Rebuild Completed Ahead Of New Season
Following the cyclone, builders, electricians and contractors from across Australia worked to restore the property in time for the new tourism season.
According to General Manager Hannah Wark, most of the resort’s villas and the central lodge area suffered only superficial damage and were able to be repaired.
“This is the most remarkable milestone for my team and I, including the dozens of people from around Australia who have helped out on the ground and behind-the-scenes,” Wark said.
She added that some visible signs of the cyclone remain and will become part of the property’s ongoing story.
Luxury Refurbishment Continues After Cyclone Recovery
The reopening also marks the completion of the refurbishment programme that had already been underway before the storm struck.
Berkeley River Lodge said the redesigned interiors combine “rugged authenticity with sophisticated comfort” through a collaboration with Perth-based design company Empire Home.
The resort’s upgrades include new custom-made furniture, redesigned interiors and carefully curated decorative details throughout the property.
Dunes Restaurant and the pool deck have also been fully refurbished as part of the reopening.
New Dining And Wellness Experiences Introduced
The lodge has additionally expanded its guest experience programme for the 2026 season.
New culinary additions include the Barefoot Barbecue experience, the Kimberley Pantry concept and upgraded in-room mini bars.
Kimberley Spa is returning for a second season in a new mobile format, while Morning Movement Sessions have been introduced as an additional wellness-focused offering.
Wark described the rebuilding process as emotionally challenging due to the lodge’s isolated location and logistical complexity.
“It has been an emotional rollercoaster with lots of tears and challenges along the way, which is all part of operating – and rebuilding – a premium product that is only accessible by air or sea,” she said.
Located in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia, Berkeley River Lodge is accessible only by boat or aircraft and is known for its luxury wilderness tourism experiences.
