A Magical Night At Peppers Convent Hunter Valley

Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, just two hours from Sydney, Peppers Convent is a luxurious and striking venue that looks like something out of a fairytale. Set at the end of tree-lined driveway, the colonial blue palatial convent is a unique offering in the Hunter Valley and sets a very special tone for all your occasions.

As you enter the convent, the lounge area is finished with black, gold and cream art deco accents while the 17 guest rooms are contemporary in a light colour palette. Recently refurbished with striking Art Deco pieces, the convent now shows off a prestigious ‘European Luxe meets Hamptons Long Island’ vibe that is stunning for any romantic getaway or wedding.

Image via Peppers Convent Hunter Valley

Dining & the Experience

There are two restaurants at Peppers Convent, ‘Circa 1876’ and ‘Restaurant Eighty Eight’. Circa 1876 is an award-winning restaurant set on the far end of the property and overlooks a large scale kitchen garden as well as the vineyard. I had the pleasure of being shown through the kitchen garden, which is home to seasonal vegetables and vibrant flavours, by the Executive Chef Trent Barrett. It was so wonderful hearing Trent’s passion for sustainable and beautifully fresh produce.

Images via Peppers Convent Hunter Valley

Dinner at Circa 1876 is a wonderful experience which I could gush over for weeks (actually I have been!) The night started with a glass of champagne in the lounge sitting by the open fire and looking through the wedding photography books that are placed upon the side table. Moving into the main restaurant room, the whole experience is exceptional and it is easy to see why this is one of the Hunter Valley’s most iconic restaurants. With options for a two, three or five course chef’s menu, each meal is artfully presented with exquisite flavours. I would not hesitate to recommend this restaurant to anyone – it is perfect from the moment you first walk through the door.

Image via Peppers Convent Hunter Valley

Back at the Convent, Restaurant Eighty Eight is on the ground floor and opens out onto the Wisteria Terrace which is flooded with natural light. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and High Tea, most of which have a strong focus on organic and local produce. This space is perfect for a group breakfast the morning after your wedding or for a rehearsal afternoon celebration. If you’re choosing the Hunter Valley for a destination girl’s weekend, the High Tea in the convent lounge is also a truly decadent experience all year round.

I had the pleasure of experiencing Peppers Convent in the Autumn and while the Hunter Valley is renowned for its Spring time leafy greenery, there is an old world beauty to the stark vineyards and trees. This allows the natural beauty of the area and your wedding styling to shine through.

Image via Peppers Convent Hunter Valley

Your wedding at Peppers Convent

Peppers Convent is home to two restaurants and six different areas for your ceremony or reception. Whether you choose for your ceremony to be held around the fountain with the convent as a backdrop, in the White Chapel or under the tree canopy on the grounds of Circa 1876, there is something to suit every style and ceremony size. Then when it comes to your reception, there is the beautiful Circa 1876 restaurant, Restaurant Eighty Eight in the convent, the Chapel or the permanent marquee. Each space is rich in character and creates a stunning backdrop for your special day.

Image by Jac and Heath Photography

The inclusions at Peppers Convent go above and beyond standard with options to personalise every aspect of your stay and special day. Throughout the planning process, you have meetings with the Chef and wedding co-ordinator to ensure your day will be everything you want. You will also have a functions coordinator on the day to make sure everything runs like clockwork. The team at Peppers Convent are highly experienced and will create an exceptional once in a lifetime occasion for you and your guests. With all the stresses that can come with planning a wedding, you can rest assured knowing that the team and their recommended vendors will transform your dreams into a picturesque reality.

Image by Popcorn Photography

Complete your wedding by staying at Peppers Convent for the night after your special day. If you’re looking for pre or post wedding celebrations as well, the 17 rooms at the convent can be booked for your bridal party, friends and family (pending availability). This is perfect for those wedding parties wanting to have some time to explore all that the estate offers or the surrounding Hunter Valley area. On the estate nestled between the convent and Circa 1876, you’ll also find the Pepper Tree Wines Cellar Door which is perfect for an afternoon wine tasting while overlooking the beautiful grounds. There really is something for everyone!

Two Night Escape

If you’re wanting to experience the beautiful luxury of Peppers Convent yourself, enjoy a Two Night Escape from in a Deluxe Room. The offer includes daily breakfast for two and delightful afternoon canapés for you and your partner. This is a wonderful opportunity for you and your partner to experience all that the estate offers before you finalise your wedding plans or it is also a wonderful chance for you to get away for a relaxing short stay in the lead up to your big day.

This little piece of heaven is a magical place that will set the tone for an elegant and glamorous wedding. If you’re a romantic at heart, I know you will enjoy it as much as I did!