What is a jackalope, anyway? In this instalment of our luxury escape series, Suite Spot, John Guanzon takes us inside Jackalope Hotel, the decadent and enchanting venue that is as opulent as it is obscure.
Nestled among the peaceful vineyards of the Mornington Peninsula, a world apart from Melbourne’s espresso-fuelled buzz and graffiti-clad laneways, awaits an invitation to experience the art of true luxury. This award-winning boutique retreat might be just 90 minutes from the Victorian capital, but Jackalope Hotel feels like a tranquil countryside escape, seamlessly blending modern design, comfort, and quiet indulgence—it’s unlike any place I’ve ever stayed. The resort’s reputation precedes it, but this visit was a reminder of why it continues to stand out in Australia’s luxury travel landscape.
First Impressions
From the moment my airport hotel transfer turned off the road and through the Jackalope gates I felt an immediate shift—the kind of feeling when you enter a space, and the entire atmosphere transforms around you. A large and striking seven-metre-tall sculpture of a jackalope—a mythical creature that is part jackrabbit, part antelope—greets me as I step out of the car.
The dark sculpture by Australian artist Emily Floyd commands your gaze before your eyes marvel at the scale of the property. At first glance, it gives off a vineyard charm yet remains boldly contemporary. The hotel’s dark, modern architecture stands out dramatically against the vibrant landscape, setting the tone for an experience that’s as edgy as it is luxurious.
Inside the Jackalope Hotel Suites
Checking in and walking to my room felt like stepping inside a living art installation. The lobby is dimly lit, with minimalist furnishing and sleek accents that draw attention to the pièce de résistance of the room—a glass-encased wine cellar that stretches from floor to ceiling- placed right in the centre of the entry. Bottles of rich reds and crisp whites are artfully displayed, catching the light just enough to reveal their deep hues.
Upstairs, the mood changes ever-so-slightly once again. The long hallway is bathed in coloured ambient light, with LED strips casting a vibrant glow along the walls and ceiling. The vibrant yet soft illumination creates an almost cinematic feel that directs me to my room and sets the tone for the playful luxury that awaits inside. Sure, it was a small detail, but it added a sense of excitement and anticipation, making the journey to the suite as memorable as the stay itself. It made for some great symmetrical photos too.
Inside, the suites are a beautifully furnished sanctuary of sleek, contemporary design that perfectly balances comfort and style. The king-sized bed that faces a breathtaking endless field of vineyards is draped in luxury linen that ensures the comfiest of sleeps. Directly behind it is a spacious bathroom area that almost feels like you’re in a luxurious hotel spa.
A deep-soak Japanese bath divides the room at the centre, positioned perfectly to take in the sweeping vineyard views through floor-to-ceiling windows. But the true show-stopper of the room for me. Two words: heated flooring. It’s the kind of detail that turns a cozy suite into a sanctuary—pure bliss every time your feet touch the ground.
And as if heated floors weren’t enough, the room’s service device takes indulgence to the next level with free unlimited popcorn and choc tops on demand. Late-night snack runs? Not here—luxury means your cravings come straight to you.
A Feast for the Senses
The dining experiences at Jackalope are as memorable as the setting itself, with two premium dining choices on site – Doot Doot Doot, the hotel’s signature hatted restaurant, and Rare Hare, offering more of a casual, cellar-door inspired style dining.
During my stay, I booked a wine and cheese tasting, which was held in the stunning glass-encased central wine cellar—a striking focal point of the property. Surrounded by rows of premium vintages, the tasting paired locally sourced cheeses with expertly selected wines, creating a sensory experience that showcased the region’s best. Led by the in-house sommeliers, the activity is best experienced with a companion or small group.
Speaking of indulgent culinary offerings, I also had the pleasure of experiencing Jackalope’s famed Yum Cha at Doot Doot Doot. Usually, I’m more accustomed to chasing down trolleys piloted by stern Chinese ladies at a bustling yum cha joint in Eastwood, but this experience was a whole new level. Part of the Total Alchemy series, this unique take on the traditional banquet elevated classic Chinese dishes with a luxurious twist.
My highlights included Black & Gold Prawn Dumplings, Roast Duck Dumplings, and Pork & Prawn Shu Mai topped with caviar, all paired with fragrant Chinese teas. The reimagined menu was a celebration of founder Louis Li’s heritage, offering a dining experience that was as refined as it was innovative.
Around the Grounds
Jackalope’s grounds are brimming with opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and indulgence—just hope the weather gods spare you from one of Melbourne’s infamous torrential storms. Tucked to the side of the property, the Kitchen Garden overflows with seasonal produce, and the hotel offers guided tours led by the estate’s chefs, giving guests a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how these fresh ingredients inspire the culinary masterpieces served on-site.
The Cellar Door, part of the Rare Hare Wine & Food Store, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Guests can choose from a variety of tasting experiences, ranging from classic samplings of current-release wines to premium and immersive sessions that include vineyard tours, exclusive vintages, and curated cheese plates—all celebrating the Mornington Peninsula’s finest offerings.
For those seeking pure relaxation, the vineyard-facing infinity pool and infrared sauna provide tranquil escapes, each perfectly positioned to make the most of the sweeping vineyard views. And if you prefer to simply wander, the estate offers peaceful walks punctuated by sculptural art installations and thoughtfully designed spaces. Every corner of Jackalope feels like a discovery, turning even a casual stroll into an indulgent adventure.
Is Jackalope Hotel for you?
Who Will Love Jackalope:
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- Wine Lovers – It goes without saying but with a stunning on-site cellar and curated wine experiences, this is a haven for oenophiles looking to indulge in Mornington Peninsula’s renowned vintages.
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- Couples – The suites are romantic, and luxurious and feel quite private. The intimate dining options make it the perfect retreat for couples seeking a getaway or even a great option for a local honeymoon.
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- Foodies – From the fine-dining experience at the acclaimed Doot Doot Doot to the locally sourced cheese and wine pairings, this is a destination for travelers who appreciate premium food and beverage.
Who Might Want to Pass:
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- Families with Young Children – As the hotel is only for guests aged 12 and up, the serene, adult-oriented atmosphere and focus on fine dining are better suited for older children and adults seeking a refined getaway.
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- Budget Travellers – One thing’s for sure, Jackalope is NOT cheap. It’s a high-end boutique retreat, so it’s best suited for those ready to splurge on a premium experience.
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- Action-Seekers – Maybe skip if you’re after a jam-packed, adrenaline-filled holiday. The vibe here is calm and reflective, without a laundry list of guided activities to do on-site.
Final Thoughts
Jackalope Hotel stands in a league of its own, offering an elevated luxury experience that combines the natural beauty of the Mornington Peninsula with bold, innovative design. It’s a place where every detail feels intentional and positioned for indulgence.
No wonder it boasts a long list of accolades and awards since its opening, solidifying its place as a standout in Australia’s boutique hotel scene. As the inaugural editorial feature for Suite Spot’s quarterly review series, Jackalope sets a dazzling standard—not just for the Peninsula, but for luxury stays across the country.
Disclaimer: The author of this post, John Guanzon, was invited to stay as a guest of Jackalope for the purposes of this review.
