KIRKTON PARK HUNTER VALLEY
hotel spotlight
THE Kirkton Park Hunter Valley is nothing short of charming.
From the moment delegates enter the tree-lined driveway, it’s clear this boutique hotel, set on 70 acres in the Hunter Valley, offers a very different experience to the hustle-and-bustle of a city location.
“We attract companies looking for a bit more of a relaxed retreat,” Patrick Swain, rooms division manager, Kirkton Park Hunter Valley told Business Events News.
“Groups that want to escape the city and enjoy a bit more of the country and not just have to focus on work for eight hours of the day.”
The hotel intertwines country manor charm with the natural beauty of the Hunter Valley and is speckled with water fountains and serene nooks which rise out of perfectly manicured grounds.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the property is seeing a trend towards events which are designed to reward delegates, encourage their growth and bond as a team.
A typical conference will be a mix of work and play, with smaller companies often opting for a half-day delegate package followed by an onsite group bonding activity run by Pinnacle such as an Amazing Race.
Groups have the option to pop out for a tour of a winery, including Winwood Estate, conveniently located next door, or bigger groups can go for the larger McGuiguin Wines or Tyrell’s Wines, both less than a 10-minute drive away.
Those who opt for a full-day delegate package don’t have to miss out on tasting the Hunter Valley as the hotel can bring the cellar door experience onsite, most commonly for a pre-dinner tasting.
Swain said the hotel’s event size “sweet spot” was a hotel buyout of between 70140 people, but noted there were extra bedding options available which allowed the hotel to cater for up to 160 guests.
The hotel is fresh from a refurbishment last year and its largest space is The Hunter Rothbury Room, at 255m2, which can be split into two rooms.
It is followed by the James Busby room (inset), which can comfortably seat up to 120 and offers a break-out space with its own courtyard and fountain.
The Kirkton also features smaller break-out rooms and private dining options, complete with delightful perks like the option for a bonfire.
The hotel also plays host to its resident pigs and chickens, which are tucked away a short walk from the pool, tennis court, basketball court, gym and sauna.
The former Sebel property was snapped up by the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) last month (BEN 03 Jul) and the property has since been making the most of the Group’s network.
Swain said the move opened up new avenues for business to come through and had put the hotel on the radar for PCOs considering other IHG properties in the region, demonstrated by “a lot of leads” which had come through since.
“We bring that country charm into a premium environment,” he explained.
Whether it’s the rural feel, gorgeous boutique design, or friendly staff, it comes as no surprise that many delegates are drawn back to this endearing manor for a repeat getaway.