Are you looking for something to do this weekend or during the upcoming school holidays with your family?
The Mornington Peninsula overflows with natural beauty, fresh local produce and exceptional beer and wine. Grab your nearest and dearest and follow our top stops for summer on the Peninsula.
1. Coastal trails
Set at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula, Point Nepean National Park is covered with interesting and rugged coastal trails. Explore on foot or by cycle for expansive bay views and fascinating history. Along the Fort Nepean Discovery Walk, you’ll find a maze of war tunnels that were used until the end of World War II, and pass Cheviot Beach, where Prime Minister Harold Holt disappeared in 1967.
Further south, Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve and the incredible Bushrangers Bay Nature Walk reward your efforts with some of Victoria’s best coastal scenery.
2. Rock pools to explore
Take a refreshing dip in natural rock pools along the southern coast between Sorrento and Flinders. Frolic as the sun glistens off the ever-changing rock formations at Bridgewater Bay, nab your own secluded rock pool to watch the ocean rage around you at Bushrangers Bay, or observe from a safe distance as the Flinders Blowhole spouts triumphantly over the rocks.
3. Wine Food Farm Gate Trail
Hit the Wine Food Farm Gate Trail and celebrate the Mornington Peninsula’s love affair with fine food, summer produce and the fruits of the vine.
In summer the fields burst with delicious treasures waiting to be picked. Pluck some plump sweet strawberries and fill your basket at the famous Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm, the largest producer in Australia.
4. Wineries and breweries
Celebrate summer at the Peninsula’s premier wine and beer producers. Stroll through acclaimed art in the sculpture garden at Pt Leo Estate before sitting down to world-class dining and wine. Take in rustic charm at Merricks General Wine Store – set between rolling hills and beautiful coastline, the store showcases a seasonal menu and fine regional wines.
5. Picnic and sculpture trail
Celebrate summer at Montalto, a Peninsula winery taking cellar doors to a new level. Indulge in a summer lunch menu by noted chef Matt Wilkinson – or grab a picnic pack (complete with a bottle of award-winning pinot noir) to enjoy in the sunshine with picturesque views across the property.
Take time to discover the 30 permanent sculptures set thoughtfully through the Montalto grounds – find larger, awe-inspiring works in open space, and more intimate pieces among wetlands and vines.
6. Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens
Get yourself blissfully lost among the Lavender Labyrinth, which explodes with colour and scent in summer. Wander along the beautiful circular rose maze or try to find the right pathway through the traditional hedge maze. If you have kids in tow, invite some magic with the gnome and fairy hunt.
7. Gordon Studio Glass Blowers
For a gift with a twist, browse the wonderful creations at Gordon Studio Glass Blowers. Admire the shop’s vases, bowls, platters, bottles and animals, then take a peek from the viewing balcony down into the blowing room to see how the pieces are made in searing furnaces.
8. Hot Springs
The Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs are both natural geothermal mineral springs and day spa facility. With a multitude of globally inspired bathing and wellness experiences all nestled harmoniously in the natural landscape of each facility. Pack your swimwear, towel and a water bottle and indulge in either of the offerings.
