Take a trip down the Mornington Peninsula and be dazzled by the vibrant coastal villages and charming hinterland hamlets full of boutique wineries and acclaimed restaurants, art galleries, manicured gardens, geothermal springs and renowned golf courses.
Wind around the eastern side of Port Phillip Bay taking in vast ocean views, rugged coastal scenery and sheltered beaches. Stop along the way for coffee, wine or the freshest local produce and discover the laid-back charm and the village welcomes that are quintessentially Victorian.
The Mornington microcosm
Travel the region from top to toe in just 30 minutes. Pass quaint bathing boxes strung along the beachfronts of Dromana, Rosebud and Mornington, and then head inland through the rolling hills of the verdant hinterland to orchards, market gardens and wineries.
With everything on the peninsula within easy reach, there's plenty of ways to fill your day. Spend a morning boutique shopping amid historic limestone buildings in Sorrento, 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.
