Peppers returns home: Iconic brand reclaims its roots in the Hunter Valley
In a moment that feels like destiny, Peppers has returned to the Hunter Valley – the very place where the brand’s story began.
Following a multi-million dollar transformation, Grand Mercure The Vintage has been reimagined as Peppers Hunter Valley, marking a celebrated homecoming for one of Australia’s most recognisable boutique hotel brands.
Owned by long-standing partners Stevens Group and Accor Vacation Club, along with a group of additional owners, the newly rebranded hotel has undergone a stunning refurbishment.
Read the latest AccomNews print edition HERE
The collection of one, two, and three-bedroom villas now reflect a contemporary wine country aesthetic, with full ceiling-to-floor upgrades that include elegant lighting, modern kitchens, sophisticated furnishings, and refined textures inspired by the natural tones of the region.
A redesigned reception space further enhances the sense of place, merging Peppers’ signature style with the laid-back warmth of the Hunter Valley.
Nestled within the acclaimed The Vintage precinct, home to rolling vineyards, panoramic countryside, and a Greg Norman-designed 18-hole golf course, Peppers Hunter Valley is once again at the heart of one of Australia’s most beloved holiday destinations.
And the precinct’s evolution doesn’t stop there. The team behind NINETEEN is preparing to unveil Mezze, a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar set to elevate the local culinary scene.
This revitalisation speaks not only to the strength of Peppers as a brand, but also to the ongoing demand for premium escapes that blend thoughtful design, personalised service, and immersive local experiences.
“The return of Peppers to the Hunter Valley is a proud and symbolic moment for us,” said Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Accor Pacific.
“This is where the Peppers story began, and to see the brand come full circle – now elevated, refreshed, and reconnected to its roots – is incredibly special. The transformation of this property reflects the strength of our partnerships and the continued demand for meaningful, premium escapes that balance charm with sophistication. Peppers Hunter Valley is not just a beautiful place to stay – it is a return to what makes travel personal, local, and unforgettable.”
As the Peppers brand steps into a new chapter in the Hunter, it does so with a fresh identity, but a familiar soul – still offering the curated, boutique experience that first captured travellers’ hearts all those years ago.
