Australian Footballer Josh Cavallo to Open LGBTQ+ Inclusive Hotel in Bali

Australian footballer Josh Cavallo, one of the few openly gay players in the sport, has announced his latest venture—a boutique LGBTQ+ friendly hotel in Bali named “Cavallo Hideaway”. Scheduled to open in December 2025, the hotel aims to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for travelers from all walks of life.  

Sharing the news with his Instagram followers, Cavallo expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s happening! I’m building a hotel. Cavallo Hideaway. I still can’t believe it’s coming to life.” He described the project as a dream come true after years of planning and envisioning a place where people can feel safe while traveling.  

The hotel is being developed in collaboration with ALAM Villas Cepaka, a renowned company specializing in bespoke villas in Bali’s Tabanan Regency. Located in the peaceful Cepaka Village, near Seseh and just north of Canggu, the hideaway offers a serene escape that’s still close to Bali’s most vibrant attractions.  

The “Cavallo Hideaway”is being designed as a tranquil retreat that blends modern stone architecture with the natural beauty of Bali. Cavallo highlighted that the design will incorporate bamboo structures, earthy tones, and open spaces, creating a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. He emphasized that the property will be a place “where judgment is absent, and every guest can truly feel free to be themselves.”  

The interiors are crafted to enhance comfort and connection. Rooms feature soft, earthy tones and natural curves, with large windows to bring in plenty of light. A standout feature is the kitchen space, described by Cavallo as a curved room surrounded by large windows and warm tones, designed to foster a sense of comfort, relaxation, and community. The design of the floor-to-ceiling curved windows allows the beauty of Bali’s lush landscapes to seamlessly flow into the indoor spaces.  

Cavallo made history as the first openly gay male footballer actively playing professional soccer in Australia. Since coming out, he has become a beacon of representation and inclusivity in sports. His accolades include being named “GQ Magazine” and “Attitude Magazine’s” Man of the Year, and he continues to play for Adelaide United while serving as an ambassador for global brands such as Nike and Ralph Lauren.  

With the launch of “Cavallo Hideaway”, Cavallo is expanding his influence to the hospitality industry. While not exclusively a queer space, the hotel is designed to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies feel at home. It reflects Cavallo’s commitment to creating spaces where diversity and inclusivity are celebrated.  

Located in Cepaka Village, “Cavallo Hideaway” offers the perfect balance between tranquility and accessibility. Just 20 minutes from Pererenan Beach and 40 minutes from Ubud, the hotel is ideal for travelers seeking to explore Bali’s cultural and natural treasures while enjoying a peaceful retreat. Its proximity to Seseh, Bali’s next emerging destination, also positions the hotel as a forward-thinking addition to the island’s hospitality scene.  

The launch of “Cavallo Hideaway” comes as Bali’s tourism sector faces new regulations. The provincial government has proposed a ban on the development of new hotels, resorts, and similar properties in major tourist hubs such as Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Kuta. Initially set to take effect in October 2024, the policy has been delayed due to government transitions, allowing ongoing projects like Cavallo’s to proceed.  

While Bali is often seen as one of Indonesia’s more liberal provinces, LGBTQ+ individuals in the country face significant social and legal challenges. Homosexuality is not criminalized nationwide, except in Aceh Province, but the queer community has limited protections and often encounters prejudice.  

In this context, “Cavallo Hideaway” represents more than just a hotel; it’s a statement of support for inclusivity and safety. Cavallo’s vision for the property reflects his desire to create a space where guests can feel accepted and celebrated, regardless of their background.  

As December 2025 approaches, “Cavallo Hideaway” is poised to become a unique addition to Bali’s hospitality scene. Combining thoughtful design, a commitment to inclusivity, and a prime location, the hotel promises to offer travelers a luxurious, serene, and welcoming experience. Cavallo’s journey from professional athlete to hospitality pioneer underscores his dedication to creating positive change, both on and off the field.