These Are the Top Things to Do on the Mornington Peninsula

This outstanding region offers a long list of experiences you’ll want to write home about.

Melbourne’s own version of the Hamptons boasts incredible food producers, wineries, top-of-the-line restaurants, walking trails and so much more.

Sadly, many Victorians – let alone interstaters – are yet to discover the many gems hidden among the dunes and bushland of the pretty peninsula. This relaxed region stretches from Frankston to Portsea, and here’s how to get acquainted with the best things to do on the Mornington Peninsula.

1. Take a hatted restaurant tour

the Doot Doot Doot restaurant interior with a glamorous ceiling — Doot Doot Doot is located within the iconic Jackalope Hotel. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you consider yourself a gourmand, you’ll be impressed the Mornington Peninsula delivers enough world-class restaurants to keep you fed for more than a few weekends.

The first, Laura at Pt. Leo Estate, offers exquisite modern Australian cuisine championing local producers. Brigitte Hafner’s Tedesca Osteria is the very definition of a restaurant practising the principles of slow food. She serves four set-course lunches a week, each with only one sitting, changing the menu every day to account for what is best and freshest.

Celebrate incredible produce and wine from the region at Main Ridge’s Ten Minutes By Tractor. Kiwi-born chef Hayden Ellis has worked at some of the best restaurants in the world, including the Fat Duck, and makes good use of the produce from the estate’s kitchen garden.

a spread of food and wine at Rare Hare — Enjoy delicious share-style plates at Rare Hare. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Audrey’s , with its seafood tasting menu, is an homage to chef Scott Pickett’s grandma, who instilled his passion for cooking. Doot Doot Doot is Jackalope’s fine-dining restaurant. On offer is a three-course menu served with a selection of snacks (and upgrades if you’re celebrating) that make the most of the plentiful local produce.

The hotel’s more casual bistro (and food and wine store), Rare Hare , has a wood-fired oven at its heart and offers indoor and outdoor dining options. Over at Flinders, the Moke crew offers a relaxed, shared dining experience, with chef Michael Cole changing the menu each week. If you’re looking for something a little different, chef Gayan Pieris is serving a modern Asian menu inspired by Sri Lanka at Many Little Bar & Dining .

the vineyard at The Restaurant at Montalto — The Restaurant at Montalto features a menu that champions estate-grown heirloom produce. (Image: Supplied)

Chef Gayan Pieris works, this time, with Polperro ’s farmer Nick to create dishes overflowing with organic and biodynamic produce that’s picked at the perfect moment and paired with the finest proteins. Each of the four courses served during a shared meal at The Restaurant at Montalto is designed to highlight a connection between the estate gardens, the kitchen and the property’s award-winning wines.

Inspiration for the menu at Port Phillip Estate comes from Europe, but the ingredients that go into it are much more local than that. On a sunny day, ask for a table on the deck and enjoy the views of the vineyard and Western Port Bay.

Discover more great places to eat and drink on the Mornington Peninsula.

2. Mornington Peninsula hot springs

an aerial view of the Peninsula Hot Springs — A visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs is the ultimate indulgent experience. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Consistently voted as the best luxury mineral spa in the world, Peninsula Hot Springs is the real deal. Located on a 17-hectare property, it offers more than 50 hot spring pools and geothermal bathing experiences, from cave pools to Turkish steam baths, all in a natural bushland setting. There’s also a beautiful hilltop bath with an incredible view. The naturally heated, mineral-packed water is pumped from 637 metres below ground, ready to soak tired muscles.

As well as soaking, you can book a treatment, have lunch and even stay overnight. Here’s a tip: if you’re staying close by, get up early and enjoy bathing from 7am before the crowds arrive.

A newer option is Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, where you can immerse yourself in the healing waters from early morning until well after the sun sets. There are 22 pools, each beautifully designed, as well as private bathing experiences, body treatments and rituals, and lunch or high tea at the onsite restaurant.

3. Hike to your heart’s content

The Mornington Peninsula is home to a selection of trails that will give your legs a good stretch while you’re visiting.

THE BAY TRAIL

To get a true sense of the peninsula in its entirety, the 30-kilometre Bay Trail extends along the Port Phillip coast from Safety Beach to Portsea.

POINT NEPEAN NATIONAL PARK

A natural beauty at the tip of the peninsula, this walk will see you pass the historical quarantine station and WWII housing.

TWO BAYS WALKING TRACK

Trek 26 kilometres from one side of the peninsula (Dromana) to the other (Cape Schanck).

MORNINGTON PENINSULA WALK

Keen ramblers can tackle the 100-kilometre Mornington Peninsula Walk, which combines all the above. There are plenty of shorter sections if your preference is for a stroll.

4. Play a round of golf

an aerial view of the RACV Cape Schanck Resort — RACV Cape Schanck Resort features an 18-hole, par 70 championship golf course by the ocean. (Image: Supplied)

The peninsula draws comparisons to Scotland’s Fife district due to the concentration of clubs here. Go for a swing at a mix of traditional and links courses. Natural dunes create sweeping hills and natural sand traps, plus most courses offer amazing sea views while you play.

RACV Cape Schanck Resort has excellent accommodation, a lovely restaurant and stunning views. But for the keen golfer, the 18-hole, par-70 championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr is the big drawcard. Portsea Golf Club , with its links course set amid sand dunes and Moonah forest, hosts state and national events, complemented by its own prestigious Portsea Pro-Am.

With two 18-hole championship courses, Moonah Links has become one of the destinations for aficionados of the great game. It’s even hosted the Victorian PGA Championship. Built along a stunning stretch of clifftop land overlooking Bass Strait and Western Port Bay, The Flinders Golf Club is more than a hundred years old and a great place to get into the swing of things.

5. Enchanted Adventure

a man conquering the adventure course at Enchanted Adventure — Tackle the high ropes adventure courses and mazes. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you have kids, make a beeline for Enchanted Adventure at Arthurs Seat. Alongside manicured garden mazes as far as the eye can see, this playful paradise houses a tube slide ride, sculpture park, indoor maze and lolly shop. Add an extra couple of hours to your visit and go tree surfing on one of two high ropes adventure courses. There are zip lines, swinging rope bridges, suspended tunnels and a giant Tarzan swing set in the native trees of this ancient woodland. Choose from two courses: the Grand course for adults/teens and the Nippers course for kids. Make sure you check out the bookings website for additional information before you visit.

6. Mornington Peninsula beaches

the waves at Sorrento Back Beach — Sorrento Back Beach is famed for its epic surf breaks. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The sandy shores of Port Phillip Bay offer boating, fishing, safe swimming and beachfront camping aplenty. The west coast faces Bass Strait, so there are amazing surf beaches. On the Western Port side, there are more surf beaches and views across to Phillip and French Islands.

Avoid the crowds at Mothers Beach in Mornington. Take a swim, walk the shores and get out a picnic if you’re so inclined. Nearby Shire Hall Beach is home to colourful huts, along with plentiful benches, picnic tables and toilets.

Fossil Beach offers budding geologists a picturesque limestone cliff walk. There’s a signposted trail that indicates sites of significance regarding the original First Nations inhabitants of the region and the first European settlers.

Further south, between Mount Martha and Dromana, Safety Beach is another calm spot. In between Portsea’s mansions – at the end of Point King Road – a hidden path leads down wooden stairs to Point King Beach.

Surfers should head to Portsea Surf Beach, Sorrento Back Beach, Rye Ocean Beach, Saint Andrews and Gunnamatta Surf Beach.

7. Arthurs Seat Eagle

a cable car overlooking Port Phillip Bay at Arthurs Seat Eagle — Take in the views of Port Phillip Bay from a cable car. (Image: Visit Victoria)

When the ground just isn’t cutting it anymore, make your way to Arthurs Seat Eagle , which gives you the chance to soar in a cable car through the forest canopy over Arthurs Seat State Park.

The summit is 314 metres high, granting great views across Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne. Each ‘eagle’ is all-inclusive and caters to people with disabilities, as well as the elderly, frail and toddlers. It is also wheelchair and pram-friendly.

8. Bask in a brew

pizza, beer and more served by the fire at St Andrews Beach Brewery — Pop by St Andrews Beach Brewery for pizza and beers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Take a detour from Mornington Peninsula’s various vinous highlights and bask in the talent of a growing crop of artisanal brewers, distillers and cider makers.

Tar Barrel Brewery and Distillery , Red Hill Brewery and St Andrews Beach Brewery are three venues leading the charge. Each space has taps of refreshing ales and their regularly changing specialty brews, matched with no-nonsense favourites like woodfired pizza, nachos, smoked meats and burgers and fries.

There are some newer places to try too: Jetty Road , Banks and a local favourite TWØBAYS Brewing Co . It makes gluten-free beer in a variety of styles, including an IPA, stout and sour, and excellent gluten-free pizza comes from the kitchen.

a couple inside JimmyRum Distillery — JimmyRum Distillery is proudly Victoria’s first dedicated craft rum distillery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

In Red Hill, Bass and Flinders Distillery produces a range of grape-based gins, brandy and other spirits. Visitors can taste a gin paddle, order a signature cocktail or participate in a gin masterclass to make their very own batch. Single-malt whisky is the specialty of Chief’s Son Distillery , while rum and all the creations you can make from it are the drawcard at JimmyRum Distillery . The garden is dog-friendly, too. In Rye, you’ll find Penni Ave Distillery , where the makers are dedicated to vodka. Cocktails and tasting paddles are available, and there’s often a food truck parked outside for those feeling hungry.

A fifth generation of sisters is now in charge of Mock Red Hill , which brews biodynamic ciders created from dessert apples grown in a single orchard. Visitors can try a pint in the Cider Lounge with a platter of local cheeses or check out the Farmgate store.

9. Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park

a head sculpture at Pt. Leo Estate — The sculpture park features large-scale installations. (Image: ©CMcConville)

Pt. Leo Estate wears many hats. Owned by the Gandel family, the property consists of a 20-hectare vineyard, a cellar door, restaurants and, possibly the crowning glory of the whole project, a meandering sculpture garden.

Covering an extensive 135 hectares, the sculpture park is an outdoor gallery displaying 60 large-scale installations. The collection is made up of pieces by Australian and international artists, and this is the first time all these pieces have been brought together – in the past, they’ve either been stored or loaned out. One work was relocated from a paddock where some of the property’s hundred or so heads of Angus cattle used it as a scratching post.

Thirty and 60-minute walks see you meander through the exhibition and adjacent vines. Pieces are rendered in various mediums, from slate to wood to metal, and laid out so you can view them from every angle.

10. Mornington Peninsula Markets

There are many aspects that make the Mornington Peninsula special, and one of them is the produce and the people who grow it. The best way to find out about the food you’re eating is to have a chat with the farmer, fisherman or cheesemaker at a local market.

Farmers’ markets take place at different locations each week. A favourite is the Red Hill Community Market , which takes place on the first Saturday of the month. The more than 300 stalls are chock-full of the freshest seasonal produce, as well as plenty of value-added items, from fresh bread to condiments, as well as crafts, plants and tasty treats to eat right there. Another favourite is the Point Nepean Portsea Market , and not just for its picturesque bayside setting. Meet the bakers, makers and growers, who are ready to share their produce and passion. There are lots of crafts to check out, too.

Try something completely different at the end of the disused Mornington Railway Station. This is where you can find Food Yard , held on the fourth Friday night of each month. Grab something to eat from the food trucks serving delicacies from around the world then find a spot to sit. There’s also a bar and kids’ game area.

Now discover the ultimate Mornington Peninsula road trip.

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

These are the top things to do on the Mornington Peninsula