Jackalope, Mornington Peninsula

Just like the mythical creature from which it takes its name, Jackalope represents a rare and wonderful hybrid that we’re all dying to catch sight of. A delicate interplay between design and destination, between idealism and surrealism and between country vineyards and contemporary style. Sultry and seductive, the 45 designer dens are an aesthete’s delight while the two gourmet restaurants will jostle for position as any gourmand’s favourite. A haven of creativity, Jackalope is a whole new breed of luxury on the Mornington Peninsula.

Location

A 90-minute drive south of Melbourne International Airport and Emily Floyd’s 7-metre tall Jackalope sculpture awaits to greet you at the door. Set within the world-renowned Mornington Peninsula wine region and among the rolling vines of Willow Creek Vineyard, the wining and dining here is nothing short of exquisite. Signature Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blancs paired with produce fresh from the kitchen garden are poured and plated to encourage indulgence. A little further afield and you can tee off on world-class golf courses, catch a wave off nearby beaches and walk the wild trails of Bushranger Bay.

Your Room

The corridor sets the tone for the 45 brooding rooms at Jackalope. Evoking sentiments of a retro arcade with dark walls underlit by a golden glow and neon lighting swirled overhead; it’s a bold design that makes you take notice. Behind the bedroom door, discover stormy colour palettes and contemporary furnishings offset by floor to ceiling windows that bring the golden light of the vineyard flooding in. We loved the signature suites which double as your very own Bond villain-esque lair with their charcoaled walls, deep black stone soaking tub and daring crystal and copper light installation. Complete with a daily champagne and caviar service, this is a lair you’ll never want to leave.

Why we like it

Jackalope is an all-out sensual stimulation. From its sultry appearance to its juxtaposition of fabrics and tones, we could scarcely bring ourselves to leave. And that’s without mentioning the food. We would quite happily eat in a constant cycle between Jackalope’s two restaurants for the rest of our lives if we could. First, there’s the hatted Doot Doot Doot with its ever-evolving tasting menu of sheer delight. Then, there’s Rare Hare with its vineyard led menu and its self-proclaimed devil may care attitude which we couldn’t get enough of. Wash it all down with one of the bold concoctions at Falggerdoot cocktail lounge and you’ll be similarly won over.