Minor Hotels Launches Avani Cypress Lakes Resort with Golf in Hunter Valley

Resort Transformation in Hunter Valley

Minor Hotels announced the Avani Cypress Lakes Resort, a significant tourism development in New South Wales’ Hunter Valley, scheduled for a phased opening this October. This ambitious master plan, spanning 340 acres, integrates the existing Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort with the adjoining Elysia Wellness Retreat.

Minor Hotels reveals this extensive project will establish Australia’s largest integrated resort wellness precinct. The development aims to reshape regional tourism offerings within the Hunter Valley. Central to the resort’s lifestyle offerings is its 18-hole championship golf course.

This course ensures the property maintains its appeal as a primary destination for golf travellers. The resort also targets corporate retreats and leisure getaways, with bookings opening this October. The property will feature 204 rooms and suites across two distinct accommodation options. Full completion of the resort is anticipated in the third quarter of 2027.

Golf Course at the Core of the Experience

The 18-hole championship golf course remains a primary draw for the Avani Cypress Lakes Resort. It is set against the scenic backdrop of the Broken Back Mountain Range and local vineyards. Minor Hotels indicates the course will continue to play a pivotal role in driving visitor numbers to the Hunter Valley region.

This golf facility helps maintain the property’s status as a premier hub for golf travel. Corporate retreats and leisure getaways will also benefit from its presence. Golf travellers will be able to combine rounds of play with recovery-focused wellness packages. High-end culinary experiences and luxury lodging options are also available.

This integrated approach encourages longer stays and aims for higher regional expenditure by visitors. The course integrates directly into the resort’s broader lifestyle ecosystem.

Introducing AvaniWell and Accommodation

A key addition to the resort is the Australian debut of AvaniWell, Minor Hotels’ flexible health and wellness programme. This programme, first launched at Avani+ Hua Hin Resort in Thailand, focuses on integrating wellness activities into general resort stays. It avoids the rigid structure of traditional retreats.

The AvaniWell precinct includes 70 dedicated wellness suites, designed for restorative visits. It also features 26 treatment rooms, infrared saunas, and spaces for group seminars. Recovery facilities comprise a magnesium pool, ten Pilates reformers, and outdoor cold-plunge pools. Access to these facilities is available for resort guests, day visitors, and local residents.

The resort will feature 204 rooms and suites across two distinct accommodation types, becoming the largest Avani-branded property in Australasia upon full completion.

Expanded Amenities and Corporate Focus

Beyond golf and spa therapies, the Avani Cypress Lakes Resort will introduce further leisure options. The development includes three new pickleball courts and an outdoor cinema for recreation. A vibrant pool bar featuring a live DJ booth will serve as a social venue. New dining concepts are planned, including Chakraya, a restaurant highlighting modern Sri Lankan flavours.

Family-oriented activities, such as movement, outdoor, and creative programmes, will operate via the AvaniKids brand. The resort also targets business and corporate golf retreats. It offers 24 dedicated meeting and event spaces. These facilities allow event organisers to combine business sessions with golf tournaments, yoga, and wellness workshops. This approach capitalises on the growing corporate ‘bleisure’ trend.

Implications for Golfers and Regional Impact

Bookings for the Avani Cypress Lakes Resort will open on 1 October 2026. The initial phase of transformed facilities will open later this October. This development provides a new, comprehensive golf and wellness destination in Australia’s Hunter Valley. For Asian golfers, this offers another high-quality option within a popular Asia-Pacific golf travel region.

The integrated approach, combining golf, wellness, and diverse amenities, may appeal to those seeking extended stays. Minor Hotels shows this project as its third Avani property in Australasia. This follows the Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel launch in Queensland earlier this year and the upcoming debut of Avani Queenstown in New Zealand. This expansion demonstrates Minor Hotels’ continued investment in the region's hospitality and golf tourism sectors.