Raes on Wategos, the hip Australian boutique accommodation in Byron Bay, has officially opened its highly anticipated second property, Raes Guesthouses.
Located just steps away from the original hotel, the new property expands the Raes offering with 10 luxurious suites, along with 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 start of an exciting new era for the brand.
“Raes Guesthouses have allowed us to build on what we know guests love about Raes: warmth, elegance, and generous hospitality,” says 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.”
Raes Guesthouses consist of two adjacent buildings, together housing 10 spacious suites. Each suite features a luxurious king-sized bed with a custom-designed bedhead, and offers sweeping views of Wategos Beach or the serene garden surrounds. Many of the 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, with earthen pastels in blues and greens, hand-painted joinery, and vintage-inspired pieces throughout. Synonymous with Tamsin’s design practice, the space features custom furnishings, organically moulded plasterwork, and mid-century lighting. This is complemented by a range of carefully chosen materials, from vintage glazed tiles to linen and cane, ensuring every detail feels 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. “The style hints at Spanish-Hollywood and Balearic influences, with added colour 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.”
The property also features two impressive lap pools set against tropical gardens, offering guests an ideal year-round escape. The western side offers a 16 x 3m pool with a waterfall, while the eastern side includes a solar-heated 12m pool, complete with a cabana and lounge area.
Culinary offerings by Raes’ executive chef Jason Saxby further enhance the guest experience, with a new menu available throughout the property, served in-room, in the communal dining room, or poolside. Inspired by the hotel’s oceanfront setting, the menu offers a selection of snacks, plates, and sweets, with regular updates to showcase seasonal ingredients.
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.
Raes Guesthouses opened today (7 November 2024) at 1 Marine Parade, Byron Bay NSW. Book online.
Raes has built a global reputation for its unparalleled style and uniquely Australian approach to high-end travel experiences. Owned and operated by the Catalano family, Raes is a premium hospitality company with a clear vision to deliver hotel, culinary, wellness and travel experiences that embody the essence of Byron Bay’s effortless sensibility.
