PEPPERS Manor House is undergoing a complete transformation that will make it more appealing to locals and tourists alike.
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Funded in part by the State Government's regional visitor economy fund, the $3.5 million refurbishment will result in a "regional boutique hotel that will stand at the front of the pack," according to general manager Jesse Kornoff.
Mr Kornoff said the renovations were needed because the standard of facilities and accommodation at the 134 year old property were slipping compared to new hotels being built in cities.
"The problem we face, and we are certainly not alone in this, is that the margins regional hotels make are not enough to allow reinvestment back into the business. The $500,000 grant is to help us upgrade," he said.
The heritage charm of the main building will be retained while all the public areas and guests rooms are revitalised, and a conference and wedding centre added.
There will be two changes to the property to appeal specifically to local trade.
First is a 250 seat conference and wedding area that will feature retractable glass doors which open onto a sandstone courtyard and out onto the gardens.
"This half-inside, half-outside venue will offer a point of difference in the Highlands - we are lucky we are very protected from the weather here so we can achieve this," Mr Kornoff said.
Another new feature will be a dining and bar area in the courtyard adjacent to the main building.
"This area will offer a more casual price-point and menu than our current offering. The menu will feature fresh, local food, different to the bar menu we currently have," Mr Kornoff said.
Katers will remain for fine dining.
The gardens will also receive a make-over, as well as most of the back-of-house facilities, including a new kitchen for the conference centre.
"The aim is to upgrade the property from its current four-star status into five-stars, while also providing purpose-built facilities for local use," Mr Kornoff said.
The first of the renovated guest suites will be ready by September, the conference centre and casual dining area will open in November and the whole project is expected to be complete by March next year.
