Visitors can now explore historic underground tunnels on the Mornington Peninsula.

At the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula sits a fascinating part of Australia’s history. Fort Nepean cuts a dramatic figure on the coastline of Point Nepean National Park, built to defend Melbourne in the First and Second World Wars. It was here that the first shot of the First World War was taken for the British Empire, and Australia’s opening shot of the Second. And now, for the first time since the wars, visitors can also head underground and explore the historic Fort Nepean tunnels.

What’s inside the tunnels?

Heading underground, visitors will be able to follow a web of narrow corridors carved into limestone, spreading out underneath Fort Nepean. Highlights underground include old ammunition stores and bomb-proof chambers, remnants of its military past.

Above ground, beyond dramatic vistas of the surrounding coastline, visitors can spot historic gun emplacements.

When were the tunnels sealed?

After the Second World War, in 1945, Fort Nepean was permanently sealed and closed to the public after the site’s coastal artillery was removed. The whole area remained closed to the public for another 40-plus years, being used as a restricted military training area.

Then, in 1988, it was opened back up as a public area, as part of Point Nepean National Park. But it’s only now that the labyrinth of underground tunnels has been part of that equation.

Why are they open now?

Work to “remedy structural issues, and conserve and repair concrete structures across the site" has been done as part of the Victorian Government’s Heritage Icons Project. So, essentially, the tunnels are now structurally safe to walk through. The work was aimed at both preserving the history and character of the site while safeguarding its future.

Getting to Fort Nepean

Getting to the Fort Nepean tunnels does require a walk, but it’s considered one of the most beautiful coastal trails in Victoria. And there are a couple of options.

For a shorter walk, follow the approximately 1.6-kilometre (one-way) Gunner’s Cottage route. Follow this sealed road from Gunners Car Park, passing the historic Point Nepean Cemetery along the way.

Those feeling more energetic can opt for the approximately 16-kilometre (return) pathway from Point Nepean Quarantine Station. From there, follow the signposted coastal and sealed road track through coastal scrub and rugged cliffside scenery. Look out over Phillip Bay, Bass Strait and The Rip, and even plan to stop at dedicated picnic areas along the way.

Don’t want to walk at all? Wait for the hop-on, hop-off shuttle running through the national park. It connects the park entrance with Quarantine Station and Fort Nepean. You can also opt for a combo of shuttle and hiking.

The details

Cost: Entry to Point Nepean National Park is free. Those opting for the shuttle will pay $12 adult, $8 child/concession holder or per person as part of a 15+ person group booking.
Shuttle details: For schedules, ticketing or group bookings, call 1300VENTURA or email bushire@venturabus.com.au
Location: Point Nepean National Park is about a 90-minute drive from Melbourne