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The secret pink cliffs of Victoria you need to see to believe

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
A little slice of paradise – but make it pink.

Victoria’s gold rush left plenty behind – an economic boom, population growth and a rich history that lives on today. But perhaps its most surprising legacy is the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve. Carved out by mining and reclaimed by nature, these pastel-hued formations are one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

A quick history of the Pink Cliffs

Back in the 1880s, gold miners descended on the rural Victorian town of Heathcote, following news of an untapped alluvial goldfield. To access its riches, hydraulic sluicing was carried out across the site, a mining technique that uses high-pressure jets of water to blast away large chunks of earth.

The Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve in Heathcote, Vic
Extensive hydraulic sluicing resulted in a carved-out landscape. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Hydraulic sluicing has since been recognised as a method that wreaks serious environmental havoc. But it’s also the reason this land looks the way it does today – a 30-hectare vista of mini gorges and cliffs, dotted with native flora that has found life in its ravaged crevices. Now known as the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve, the site is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and identified as a Terrestrial and Inland Waters Protected Area by the state government.

Why is it called the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve?

As humans often do, we managed to find beauty in the midst of destruction. And while many tourists visit the reserve to learn about its gold-rush history, it’s become popular for another reason entirely.

The Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve in Heathcote, Vic
The site has since become popular for its pink-hued cliffs. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Yes, plenty of gold was found here. But the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve is also rich in smooth ironstone and a naturally occurring pink clay. The powder-like texture of the clay, combined with the distinctive volcanic appearance of the ironstone, creates a lunar-like landscape reminiscent of a sunrise in summer.

Similar to places like Uluṟu and Mungo National Park, the formations reflect the sun’s rays to create a constantly changing canvas of colour – shades of orange and pink that dance and dip across the site. The cliffs and gorges seem otherworldly, more like the blushing canyons of Mars than country Victoria.

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A day-tripper’s guide to the Pink Cliffs

The Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve is easy to experience within a day, making it the perfect pit stop on a classic Victorian road trip. For those coming from Melbourne, it’ll take you roughly 1.5 hours, while nearby Bendigo is only a 35-minute drive away.

Once you’ve arrived, take the easy 30-minute loop from the car park, which weaves through eucalypt forests and past educational information signs. There are multiple viewing platforms along the way that showcase the pink peaks and volcanic-like gorges from different perspectives, so don’t forget your camera!

The Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve in Heathcote, Vic
Admire the geological wonder from multiple viewing platforms. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the reserve is an absolute highlight, this picturesque pocket of Victoria has plenty more to offer visitors. Oenophiles should head to one of the region’s vineyards, like Silver Spoon Estate, for an afternoon tipple. If you’re more of a hophead, check out nearby Tooborac Brewery. For more natural beauty, hit the walking trails of Heathcote-Graytown National Park or make the 20-minute drive to Lake Eppalock for a refreshing dip. Craving more colour? Be sure to add Australia’s pink lakes to your bucket list too!

If you’re short on time, don’t sweat it – the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve is worth the trip alone. Just remember to stick to all designated pathways and avoid touching anything beyond the fences. This fragile landscape has endured enough – let’s protect it for generations yet to come.

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Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to check out places like Scotland and North America, her favourite place to explore will always be her homeland.
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8 reasons locals will tell you the Mornington Peninsula is incredible in winter

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa
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    The Mornington Peninsula might be synonymous with summer, but winter offers equally compelling reasons to visit.

    Come winter, the Mornington Peninsula transforms into a relaxing and rejuvenating escape. Think misty trails and dramatic ocean views along the rugged coastline, drinking and dining by crackling firesides, fewer crowds and a more small-town feel – the perfect ingredients for a slow and restorative weekend.

    If you want a truly local winter experience, here’s where you need to go.

    1. Sample spirits at local distilleries

    JimmyRum distillery on the mornington peninsula
    Sample small-batch rums and cane spirits at JimmyRum. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    No matter your tipple, you’re bound to find a Peninsula distillery to suit. Chief’s Son is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its award-winning range of single malt whiskies. Make sure to try the Black Forge – a heady combination of whisky and coffee.

    JimmyRum is the Mornington Peninsula’s first and only craft rum distillery. Enjoy a tasting to sample small-batch rums and cane spirits, or book a table to feast on generous share plates and creative cocktails.

    Bass & Flinders is another must-visit, and something of a local icon. It was the Peninsula’s first distillery and remains a favourite for craft gins, brandies and fruity liqueurs. Pick up a bottle (or two) to take home and toast your winter getaway.

    2. Warm up in the hot springs

    man in pool at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa
    Dive into Alba Thermal Springs & Spa.

    Locals know winter is the best time to visit the famous hot springs. With the air cool and crisp and the springs reaching temperatures up to 43 degrees, the experience is akin to a warm embrace.

    If you’re travelling with kids or want something more laid-back, Peninsula Hot Springs is your best bet. Spanning 42 acres and with an organic vibe, the complex has hillside pools, saunas, bath houses and family-friendly spaces perfect for all ages.

    Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is slightly more luxe, with 25 thermal pools amid architectural surrounds. The on-site restaurant, Thyme, is a highlight, featuring seasonal lunch dishes, high teas and picnics, and a beautifully designed interior.

    3. Coastal walks feel more dramatic

    Millionaire's Walk in sorrento
    Take in gorgeous seaside scenery on Millionaire’s Walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    The Peninsula is situated between Port Phillip Bay and the wide expanse of the Southern Ocean, giving it front-row access to stunning sea vistas. In winter, and especially on rainy days, the outlook is incredibly dramatic, with waves crashing against the clifftops and a steely hue. The trails hugging the ocean are also much quieter and mostly filled with locals.

    Make sure to drop by Cape Schanck Lighthouse on your coastal walk – the lighthouse was built in 1859, making it one of Victoria’s oldest. Climb the stone stairs all the way to the top and take in panoramic, windswept views.

    Millionaire’s Walk in Sorrento is another local favourite. This easy 1.5-kilometre coastal trail takes you past gorgeous seaside scenery and some of the grand homes the town is famous for.

    4. Sip on world-class pinot noir

    green olive winery at red hill on the mornington peninsula
    Stop by Red Hill’s cellar doors, like Green Olive. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    If you’re a fan of the light-bodied and elegant red, your winter escape should include a stop at one of the Peninsula’s many cellar doors.

    The hinterlands around the township of Red Hill are particularly renowned for pinot noir (and chardonnay) thanks to their cool maritime climate and red clay soils. There are more than 50 boutique cellar doors to choose from, where you can sample a selection or do as the locals do: take a bottle back to your accommodation to savour by the fireside.

    5. See misty rolling hills from above

    Arthurs Seat Eagle on mornington peninsula
    Get a bird’s-eye view on Arthurs Seat Eagle. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Peninsula winters bring with them a thick mist and fog, which make for atmospheric and dreamlike scenery. Shroud yourself in the clouds with a gondola ride at Arthurs Seat Eagle. The summit is 305 metres high, giving you a genuine bird’s-eye view of the entire Peninsula region and Port Phillip Bay in their moody and misty glory.

    6. Dine beside a roaring fire

    table full of dishes at Rare Hare Wine & Food Store
    Enjoy food and wine beside a roaring fireplace at Rare Hare Wine & Food Store. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    The Peninsula is an essential part of Melbourne’s “food bowl”, with 70 per cent of the region a designated Green Wedge zone. It’s little surprise, then, that there are so many opportunities to try its fresh produce. Visit farm gates like Torello Farm, Hawkes Farm and Tully’s Corner to sample the region’s winter harvest: apples, root vegetables, mushrooms and truffles.

    Nothing beats a fireside feast in winter, and several local dining venues offer exactly that. Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill is a two-hatted restaurant with a roaring fire, Crittenden Estate does seasonal dishes and estate wines amid a cosy indoor space, and Rare Hare Wine & Food Store has a double-sided fireplace that anchors the warm and welcoming dining room.

    If the sun is out, enjoy a picnic amid the sprawling grounds of Montalto Winery. You’ll kick off with a tasting before heading outdoors to a covered picnic table, where you’ll feast on starters, mains, desserts and more wine.

    7. Go whale watching at Cape Schanck

    whales in victoria australia
    Look for whales between May and October. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Beyond the spectacular lighthouse views, Cape Schanck is also an excellent place to watch whales migrating through the Bass Strait. Between May and October each year, particularly during June and July, Southern Right and Humpback whales make their way past the area, and can sometimes be spotted just 150 metres from the shoreline. Many locals watch for free from the cape’s boardwalks and viewing platforms, but you can also book a boat tour.

    8. Explore Point Nepean National Park

    Point Nepean National Park is on the Mornington Peninsula’s tip
    Follow over 80 walking and cycling tracks. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Point Nepean National Park is on the Mornington Peninsula’s tip, just outside Portsea. Set right beside the clifftops, it’s wild, windswept and defined by its rugged terrain.

    Locals love the national park for its more than 80 walking and cycling tracks, and you’ll often spot them getting a winter workout in. But if you’ve never been here, make sure to discover its rich history.

    It forms part of an Indigenous cultural landscape on the lands of the Bunurong People, and holds significance as a site for early settlement and military operations. Numerous historical buildings – including the heritage-listed Quarantine Station – still stand today.

    Start planning the ultimate winter escape at visitmorningtonpeninsula.org.