THE FANTASTIC JACKALOPE HOTEL

Sometimes I just feel like I need an escape. And if I could simply pick up and go anywhere in the world right now, I’d be whisked away to Australia’s Morningside Peninsula for a fantastical stay at the whimsical Jackalope Hotel.

Just an hour south of Melbourne, this newcomer to the region is certainly adding a new flare to the hospitality scene. The dark, moody interiors contrast sharply with the lush green rolling hills of the surrounding vineyards. But much like the hotel’s own namesake, that is precisely the kind of incongruity that makes this gem work. Louise Li credits his background in filmmaking with the vision to bring a new kind of narrative to the hotel experience.

All Photos Courtesy of The Jackalope Hotel

The rooms are decked out to the max with top of the line design elements, and the grounds are filled with art and installations, merging a sleek, cultural edge with this dreamy, bucolic landscape. The property, which dates back to the 1870s, still holds one of the original houses, along with new constructions by the Australian design firm Carr. The design honors the classic Aussie constructions, while updating it with a contemporary flare that compliments the art and design elements.

The interiors are also quite drool-worthy, with a number of rooms, dens, and lairs all suited to your every indulgence! How wonderful to cozy up inside with all of these dreamy, sleek interiors, and still have the jaw-dropping views of the vineyards just outside your window! There are also three amazing dining options on site: the main vineyard inspired restaurant, Doot Doot Doot; the more casual Rare Hare for lighter fare; and the chic Flaggerdoot for cocktails and wine selections from the vineyard.

Needless to say, this is now on my must-see list! I just have to plan my visit across the world from NYC to Melbourne… any other suggestions?