Take a trip down the Mornington Peninsula, the lands of the Bunurong People, and be dazzled by charming coastal villages and hinterland hamlets full of acclaimed wineries and restaurants, art galleries, gardens, geothermal springs and golf courses.
Soak in the rugged coastal scenery and sheltered beaches during the drive down the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay. Remember to stop along the way for coffee, wine or the freshest local produce, and discover the laid-back village charm that is so quintessentially Victorian.
The Mornington microcosm
The Mornington Peninsula is an easy day trip – you can drive the whole region from top to toe in just 30 minutes. Everything is in easy reach, and it's just a short drive from one town to the next. Start by passing rainbow bathing boxes strung along the beachfronts of Dromana, Rosebud and Mornington, and then head inland through verdant hinterlands to orchards, market gardens and wineries.
Alternatively, spend a morning shopping amid Sorrento's historic limestone buildings, check out the antique hub of Tyabb, and then tee off from the cliff top golf course at Flinders on Westernport Bay. Treat yourself to a soak in Rye's thermal mineral pools, see works of art at Mornington's renowned gallery, or head to the top of Arthurs Seat for panoramic coastal views. For fresh berries, gourmet cheeses and local wine head off to gastronomic Red Hill.
Coastal pace
Slow down, unwind and be rewarded. The rugged Westernport Bay villages of Flinders and Balnarring are perfect for restoring balance and perspective. Visit the old Keeper's Cottage at the Cape Schanck Lightstation and be soothed by the sounds of waves crashing on the shore.
Linger over languorous feasts at seaside restaurants in Portsea and Mornington, or tuck in among the vines at any of the 'chef's hat' winery eateries around Red Hill and Main Ridge.
Beach life
Discover life on and underwater around Mornington Peninsula's beautiful sandy beaches. Catch a wave at surf beaches, scuba dive around the Portsea pier reef system, encounter stunning sea dragons as you snorkel the underwater trail around Rye pier, and frolic with the seals and dolphins in the waters off Sorrento.
In the lap of luxury
Set off on the Millionaire's Walk atop the cliffs between Portsea and Sorrento for bird's eye views of the multi-million dollar properties. Soak in thermal waters at the Peninsula's famed spas and continue the rejuvenation in the quiet gardens of your B&B or historic homesteads. Roam galleries, craft markets or artisan workshops around Red Hill and Main Ridge to find that perfect keepsake.
