Hotel in Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Victoria
Jackalope Hotel Mornington Peninsula
Jackalope Hotel is a striking design hotel set within the Willow Creek Vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula, winner of multiple architectural awards. The 45-room property features a striking black exterior, two restaurants, a rooftop infinity pool, and the Willow Stream Spa surrounded by 70 hectares of working vineyard.
Jackalope Hotel is one of Australia's most striking luxury design hotels, set within the Willow Creek Vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, approximately 90 minutes' drive south-east of Melbourne CBD. Located at 166 Balnarring Road in Merricks North, the property sits within 70 hectares of working pinot noir and chardonnay vineyard, immersing guests in the region's celebrated wine country landscape.
The hotel's bold architectural identity — a dramatic black steel-and-glass structure emerging from the surrounding vines — has earned international recognition, including multiple architectural and design awards. The building's dark exterior contrasts strikingly with the pale vineyard canopy and rolling pastoral landscape, creating a visual landmark that is distinctly visible from the surrounding Mornington Peninsula hills.
Jackalope's 45 rooms and suites are designed with a confident, art-forward aesthetic, featuring curated original artworks, bespoke furniture, and floor-to-ceiling glass opening to vineyard views. Room categories range from Vineyard Rooms and Deluxe Rooms through to suites with expanded living spaces and exclusive terrace access.
Dining is a central part of the Jackalope experience. The property operates two distinct restaurants: Doot Doot Doot, a fine-dining destination with a nationally recognised tasting menu showcasing Mornington Peninsula produce and wines, and Rare Hare, a more casual all-day bistro and wine bar embedded within the vineyard and open to non-staying visitors. Both venues draw extensively on the region's acclaimed pinot noir, chardonnay, and pinot gris producers.
The Willow Stream Spa provides a full wellness offering, with treatments drawing on local botanicals and vineyard-inspired ingredients. Guests have access to the rooftop infinity pool, which overlooks the vineyard canopy — a particularly dramatic experience at sunrise and sunset during autumn harvest. The hotel's concierge team can arrange private vineyard tours, cellar door visits across the Mornington Peninsula, and regional transport.
Amenities
- Spa
- Infinity pool
- Two restaurants
- Vineyard
- Bar
- Concierge
- Fitness centre
Visit / Book / Contact
- Official website
- Phone: +61 3 5931 2500
Location
166 Balnarring Road, Merricks North VIC 3926
-38.3833, 145.1833 — View on map
Highlights
- Award-winning architecture set within a 70-hectare working Mornington Peninsula pinot noir vineyard
- Willow Stream Spa offering vineyard-inspired wellness treatments in a purpose-built facility
- Doot Doot Doot fine-dining restaurant with nationally acclaimed seasonal tasting menu
- Rooftop infinity pool with panoramic vineyard views at sunrise and sunset
- 45 individually designed rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling vineyard vistas
Tips
- Book the Doot Doot Doot tasting menu well in advance — tables are limited and demand is high, especially during the Mornington Peninsula autumn harvest (March to May)
- Autumn is the most atmospheric season to visit, with vineyard foliage turning gold and red during the pinot noir harvest
- Arrange a private transfer from Melbourne rather than a hire car if planning to explore the Peninsula's wine trail — designated driver services are widely available in the region
- Reserve Willow Stream Spa treatments at the time of room booking, as weekend availability fills quickly
- Ask the concierge about early morning vineyard walks before breakfast — one of the quieter ways to experience the estate
FAQ
Is Jackalope Hotel suitable for children?
The hotel is primarily designed as an adults' retreat and the atmosphere is oriented toward couples and adult guests. Families with children should contact the hotel directly before booking to discuss suitability and any specific arrangements.
How far is Jackalope Hotel from Melbourne?
The hotel is located at Merricks North on the Mornington Peninsula, approximately 90 minutes' drive from Melbourne CBD via the Mornington Peninsula Freeway and Balnarring Road.
Does the hotel include breakfast?
Breakfast inclusions vary by room rate and package. Rare Hare serves breakfast and brunch daily. Guests should confirm whether their rate includes breakfast or a dining credit when making a reservation.
Can non-guests visit the restaurants at Jackalope?
Yes, both Doot Doot Doot and Rare Hare accept reservations from non-staying guests, making them popular destinations for Mornington Peninsula day visitors and wine-trail travellers.
Accessibility
The hotel provides accessible room configurations with adapted bathrooms and roll-in shower options on request. Primary areas including the restaurants and spa reception are accessible via level entry. Guests with specific mobility or accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact the hotel prior to arrival to confirm that their needs can be met.