Josh Cavallo, Adelaide United midfielder and trailblazer as the first openly gay top-flight male footballer, is taking on a new challenge—hospitality. His upcoming hotel, Cavallo Hideaway, is set to open in December 2025 in the serene Cepaka Village, Bali, and aims to redefine inclusivity in tourism.
From the pitch to hotelier: Josh Cavallo’s vision for inclusivity
Cavallo’s move into hotels comes from a deeply personal mission to create safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ travellers. During his travels, he observed a lack of inclusive options, which inspired him to make a difference.
“After years of dreaming, planning, and imagining, the moment is finally here. I can’t wait to take you along on this journey from blueprints to keys. It’s a place I wanted to create for people travelling to feel safe. Presenting Cavallo Hideaway, a community where everyone belongs,” Cavallo shared on Instagram.
The hotel’s design blends contemporary stone architecture with traditional Balinese charm. Developed in partnership with ALAM Villas Cepaka, Cavallo Hideaway will offer stylish rooms, an infinity pool, wellness spaces, and vibrant community areas—all aimed at fostering connections and relaxation.
A look inside Cavallo Hideaway
The hotel is planned to be a peaceful and welcoming retreat, seamlessly blending contemporary stone architecture with the natural beauty of Bali.
Its design highlights bamboo structures, earthy tones, and open spaces, fostering a serene yet luxurious environment where guests can feel completely at ease and free to be themselves, Cavallo posted.
The rooms exude a soft, natural aesthetic, featuring organic curves and abundant natural light. Cavallo Hideaway describes the kitchen as a “curved design space surrounded by floor-to-ceiling curved windows and warm tones”, offering a setting ideal for cooking, connection, and relaxation.
The large curved windows are designed to bring the essence of Bali indoors, creating a harmonious connection between the kitchen and the surrounding nature.
Why Bali?
Bali, a favourite destination for Australian tourists, is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, for LGBTQIA+ travellers, finding truly inclusive spaces can still be a challenge. By opening Cavallo Hideaway in Cepaka Village, Cavallo aims to create a sanctuary that combines Balinese tranquillity with modern inclusivity.
For travel professionals
Travel professionals should keep an eye on Cavallo Hideaway. It offers:
- A fresh option for clients seeking inclusive experiences.
- Alignment with trends in diversity-focused and personalised travel.
- A model for change that could inspire other properties in the region.
As the countdown to its December 2025 opening continues, Cavallo Hideaway promises to be a game-changer for Bali’s hospitality scene.
