Multi-million-dollar hotel refurbishment makes a splash as Adelaide accommodation hits record-high

The newly transformed Hotel Alba is the latest in a strong pipeline of investment in Adelaide’s accommodation offering, which is helping drive demand and boost hotel occupancy rates. 

The strong demand for accommodation in Adelaide and South Australia throughout the year proved extremely beneficial for the state encouraging hotel investors to look to South Australia now more than ever before. 

The Hotel Alba investment complements a strong pipeline of new hotels having opened or commenced construction in Adelaide since 2020, worth nearly $1.2 billion.
 
Located on South Terrace, the multi-million-dollar hotel transformation includes 99 rooms with private balconies, a swimming pool and a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, ela.
 
Today’s official launch of the pool and restaurant marks completion of the final stage of the redevelopment, managed as part of the Independent Collection by EVT, an Australian entertainment and travel company.
 
EVT operates other Adelaide hotels including The Terrace Hotel and HotelMOTEL which are part of the South Terrace Precinct together with Hotel Alba, as well as the Oval Hotel, Rydges South Park Adelaide, and Atura Adelaide Airport.
 
Hotel Alba is a stylish urban retreat which offers a sanctuary for both business and leisure visitors. The new city eatery, ela, is a drawcard for both hotel guests and locals, with a focus on South Australian produce. It is led by celebrated Adelaide chef Nigel Rich as Executive Chef, and Head Chef Ashleigh Lindner.
 
The completed refurbishment comes as latest data from hotel data analytics firm STR shows Adelaide accommodation had a record month in August.
 
With an average of 7,489 room nights occupied each night of August, it is the best August in Adelaide on record.
 
Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said the new stunning offering at Hotel Alba is a fantastic addition to Adelaide’s accommodation supply, which is sure to entice visitors to linger longer in the heart of thevCBD.
 
"With demand for hotel rooms in August at a record-high, this is exactly what gives interstate and international hotel brands the confidence to invest in our state," Minister Bettison said. 
 
"Adelaide’s suite of new and upgraded hotels, like Hotel Alba, allows us to welcome more visitors and provides flow-on benefits across the economy, supporting local jobs and boosting business in industries like hospitality and retail.  
 
"With a pipeline of new and under-construction hotels across Adelaide worth $1.2 billion, in addition to major refurbishments like Hotel Alba, it is clear there is confidence in the future of our state’s tourism industry." 
 
A part of EVT, Hotel Alba General Manager, Samantha Farrington said it is thrilling to officially open Hotel Alba and set a new benchmark for hotels in Adelaide. 
 
"Our vision was to redefine the concept of a relaxed urban hotel, offering the perfect blend of style, urban charm and genuine hospitality," Ms Farrington said. 
 
"Hotel Alba is the final instalment of a significant South Terrace Precinct redevelopment project. This complements HotelMOTEL which opened after extensive renovation in 2021, and The Terrace Hotel, all part of the Independent Collection by EVT."