We found this hotel to be a peaceful retreat in Australia’s famous Hunter Valley wine country.
It’s conveniently located, just a short drive from Newcastle and a couple of hours from Sydney. The rooms are comfy, each with its own balcony or terrace, perfect for sipping your newly discovered local wines. There’s a pool for cooling off, a gym for working off those wine calories, and a restaurant serving up tasty Aussie dishes.
On the downside, some guests might find the 72-room property a bit larger than the cozy B&Bs dotting the region.
Also, while it’s close to several wineries, you’ll need a car or organized tour to fully explore the area.
This place is ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a reliable, well-equipped base with modern amenities.
It’s also great for families or groups who prefer a full-service hotel over smaller guesthouses.
If you’re looking to learn about the Hunter Valley’s charm without sacrificing comfort, this hotel hits the spot.
About Your Stay
- The Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens hotel is located a 15-minute walk from 5 wineries, restaurants, shops, and the Hunter Valley Gardens.
- The hotel offers 72 rooms, each with a private balcony or terrace, and amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
- Accommodation options include Deluxe King Rooms, Superior King Rooms, King Studios, and Standard Twin Rooms, all featuring air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and refrigerators.
- The on-site restaurant, Elements Bar & Dining, serves Australian cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, as well as a continental or buffet breakfast.
- The hotel is located 45 minutes from Newcastle and 2 hours from Sydney, providing convenient access to the top attractions and activities in the Hunter Valley region.
Hotel Highlights
The Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens boasts an excellent location, situated just a 15-minute walk from 5 local wineries, restaurants, shops, and the renowned Hunter Valley Gardens.
The hotel is also conveniently located 45 minutes from Newcastle and 2 hours from Sydney.
With 72 rooms, each featuring a private balcony or terrace, the Mercure offers guests a comfortable stay.
Amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and free WiFi and parking.
The hotel’s rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and en-suite bathrooms.
Guests have praised the hotel’s comfortable beds, spacious rooms, friendly staff, and convenient proximity to local attractions.
Accommodation Options
Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens boasts a range of accommodation options to suit diverse guest preferences.
The hotel offers:
- Deluxe King Rooms, providing a luxurious experience with ample space and private balconies or terraces.
- Superior King Rooms, featuring similar amenities to the Deluxe rooms in a slightly smaller layout.
- King Studios, ideal for couples or solo travelers, offering a kitchenette and open-plan living area.
- Standard Twin Rooms, perfect for groups or families, with two separate beds and the same in-room features as the other room types.
All rooms come equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and tea/coffee making facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Elements Bar & Dining, the on-site restaurant at Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens, offers guests a delightful culinary experience.
The menu features Australian cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, catering to diverse dietary needs. Guests can start their day with a continental or buffet breakfast.
Throughout the day, the snack bar and wine/champagne selection provide additional dining options.
With its focus on fresh, local ingredients and attentive service, Elements Bar & Dining ensures that guests enjoy a memorable dining experience during their stay at the Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens.
Location and Accessibility
Located just 15 minutes’ walk from 5 local wineries, restaurants, shops, and the renowned Hunter Valley Gardens, the Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens enjoys an excellent position within the heart of this renowned wine region.
Situated just 45 minutes’ drive from Newcastle and 2 hours from Sydney, the hotel is easily accessible for both local and international travelers.
The property’s strategic location offers guests convenient access to the area’s top attractions and activities:
- Explore the picturesque Hunter Valley Gardens just steps away.
- Sample award-winning wines at nearby vineyards.
- Dine at the region’s renowned restaurants and cafes.
- Discover the charming shops and boutiques of the local area.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
According to the 1,642 guest reviews, the Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens has received an overall rating of 7.8 out of 10.
Guests praised the hotel’s convenient location, with an excellent 9.2/10 rating for accessibility. Visitors highlighted the comfortable beds, spacious rooms, and friendly staff.
The hotel’s proximity to local wineries, restaurants, shops, and the Hunter Valley Gardens was a popular aspect. Couples, in particular, appreciated the romantic setting for getaways.
While the majority of feedback was positive, some areas for improvement were noted, such as the potential for better value and more dining options.
Amenities and Facilities
The Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens offers a range of amenities and facilities to cater to guests’ needs.
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant called Elements Bar & Dining, which serves Australian cuisine with various dietary options. Guests can also enjoy the following:
- Free WiFi throughout the property
- Free on-site parking
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
In addition, each guest room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, tea/coffee making facilities, and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Policies and Restrictions
Typically, check-in at the Mercure Hunter Valley Gardens is available from 14:00 to 22:00, while check-out must be completed by 07:00 to 10:00. Cancellation policies vary, and special requests are subject to availability. The minimum age for check-in is 18, though children of all ages are welcome, with specific charges for extra beds and cots. Pets are not allowed, and groups of more than 7 rooms may incur different policies. Payments can be made in cash, with a 1.4% credit card surcharge applicable.
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 14:00 – 22:00 |
| Check-out | 07:00 – 10:00 |
| Cancellation | Varies |
| Special Requests | Subject to availability |
| Age Restrictions | Minimum 18 for check-in |
Additional Information
Guests with special needs or requirements are encouraged to contact the hotel in advance, as the availability of certain amenities or services may vary.
The hotel accommodates children of all ages, but charges may apply for extra beds and cribs. While pets aren’t allowed, groups of more than 7 rooms may be subject to different policies.
Payments can be made in cash, though a 1.4% credit card surcharge applies.
Key policies to note:
- Minimum check-in age is 18 years old.
- Check-in is from 2 PM to 10 PM, and check-out is from 7 AM to 10 AM.
- Cancellation policies may vary.
- Special requests are subject to availability.
Questions About Your Stay
Do the Rooms Have Blackout Curtains to Ensure a Good Night’s Sleep?
The rooms have blackout curtains that effectively block out light, ensuring a restful night’s sleep for guests. This feature is commonly found in high-quality accommodations to provide a comfortable and undisturbed sleeping environment.
Is There a Shuttle Service Available to Explore the Local Area?
There is no mention of a shuttle service available at the hotel. Guests will need to rely on their own transportation or taxis to explore the local wineries, restaurants, and attractions in the Hunter Valley area.
Can Guests Book Private Wine Tastings or Tours Through the Hotel?
The hotel can assist guests in booking private wine tastings or tours of local wineries. Guests can inquire at the front desk about available options and make arrangements through the hotel’s concierge service.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Extended Stays?
The hotel offers various stay packages and discounts for extended bookings, such as multi-night stays or longer vacations. Guests should inquire about current offers when making their reservation to take advantage of potential savings.
Can Guests Rent Bicycles From the Hotel to Explore the Surrounding Vineyards?
The hotel doesn’t offer bicycle rentals, but guests can easily access nearby vineyards on foot or by arranging transportation through the hotel’s concierge services to explore the scenic Hunter Valley region.
Booking Your Stay
We couldn’t help but fall in love with this cozy retreat nestled in the heart of Australia’s famed wine country. The comfortable rooms, mouthwatering meals, and top-notch amenities had us feeling right at home.
What really won us over was the location. Just a hop, skip, and a jump from local wineries and attractions, it’s perfect for those who want to explore but still have a peaceful home base. We found ourselves strolling to nearby tasting rooms, then retreating to the hotel’s tranquil grounds for a bit of R&R.
The staff here knows how to make guests feel welcome, and it shows in the glowing reviews. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a serene getaway, this place delivers an experience as rich and complex as the region’s best vintages.
Ready to uncork your own Hunter Valley adventure? Hit the button below to book through Booking.com. We use them ourselves and always find their prices competitive. Cheers to your upcoming wine country escape!