Peppers Craigieburn Bowral

This historic property offers a charming escape, renowned for its beautiful gardens and old-world ambiance that transports guests to a bygone era. Its signature feature is the blend of a graceful, historic building with expansive, well-maintained grounds, including a golf course, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a romantic and relaxing getaway, families looking for a peaceful retreat with activities, and pet owners due to its accommodating policies. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site course, while those attending weddings find it a convenient and scenic venue. To maximize your experience, consider exploring the various cozy lounge areas with fireplaces and be aware that some rooms are more recently updated than others.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of amenities that enhance the guest experience, with the lounge areas and their inviting fireplaces being a consistent highlight, offering warm and comfortable spaces for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the 9-hole golf course, which is often available for free use, and a billiards room for indoor entertainment. While a tennis court is present, some guests note it appears dated. Wi-Fi is available, though some reviews mention it can be slow or unreliable. Parking is generally plentiful, but the unsealed and sometimes potholed driveway can be challenging, and parking areas may be a walk from some rooms. A significant point for guests to note is the absence of a lift, requiring luggage to be carried up stairs, which can be difficult for those with mobility concerns.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed, with many guests describing rooms as small, tiny, or compact, especially the designated pet-friendly accommodations. A recurring theme is the dated and tired appearance of many rooms, featuring worn carpets, chipped furniture, and a general need for renovation. While some guests find the beds comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, others report them as too soft or old. Bathrooms are frequently noted as tiny, dated, and sometimes lacking in cleanliness, with issues like mold, rust, or poor lighting. Noise levels are a common concern, with thin walls allowing sounds from neighboring rooms and hallways to be easily heard. In-room amenities like small TVs with limited channels and sometimes hard-to-access mini-fridges are also mentioned.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers varied dining experiences, with breakfast receiving mixed reviews. Many guests praise the breakfast as great, tasty, or excellent, highlighting a good spread of options. However, some find it average, cold, or report issues with food replenishment during busy periods. The availability of barista-made coffee at breakfast is appreciated, though some guests mention additional charges or slow service. The restaurant for dinner generally receives positive feedback for its food quality, described as delicious, well-presented, and offering a good atmosphere. Some guests note that service can be slow, particularly when the restaurant is busy, and a few mention issues with specific dishes or limited menu options. The bar and lounge areas are popular for pre-dinner drinks.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is widely praised for its beauty and tranquility, set amidst magnificent gardens and picturesque surrounds. It offers a peaceful retreat while remaining conveniently close to Bowral town, typically a short drive away. The expansive gardens are consistently highlighted as a major draw, providing beautiful spaces for leisurely strolls. However, the driveway leading to the property is frequently criticized for being unsealed, potholed, and sometimes muddy, impacting the arrival experience. While parking is available, its distance from some rooms can be inconvenient. A significant accessibility challenge is the lack of a lift, meaning guests must navigate stairs to reach their rooms, which can be particularly difficult for those with luggage or mobility limitations.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Many guests highlight the team's professional and welcoming demeanor, noting their willingness to assist with requests and provide a pleasant experience. The check-in and check-out processes are often described as smooth and efficient, though some guests report occasional delays or confusion regarding bookings. Feedback on restaurant staff is mixed; while many appreciate their warmth and dedication, some note that staff can appear overwhelmed or less attentive during peak times, particularly at breakfast. Housekeeping service also receives varied comments, with some guests reporting excellent cleanliness, while others mention minor oversights like unemptied bins or unreplenished amenities.

Additional Information
The hotel is a popular wedding venue, with many guests attending events there, though some feedback suggests staff conduct during large events can be inconsistent. It maintains a pet-friendly policy, offering specific rooms and designated areas for guests traveling with animals. The property's rich historic building dates back to the 1880s, contributing significantly to its unique charm. Guests should be aware that the hotel operates a cashless policy. While generally positive, some guests have reported issues with heating or air conditioning in their rooms. Room service hours are noted to close relatively early, typically by 8 PM. The hotel does not feature a gym or an indoor pool.