Winter Road Trip Itinerary: Mornington Peninsula
The boots are on, the umbrella is out, and the scarf is wrapped tightly around your neck. It’s winter time in Melbourne, and you can't face another rainy day at the MCG. If you want to escape the city and hit the open road, the Mornington Peninsula is a fantastic winter destination. Situated on the southeastern outskirts of Melbourne, this beautiful part of Victoria is full of stunning landscapes, exciting attractions, and amazing food and wine experiences.
Things to Do in the Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula is a big, beautiful region just over 700 square kilometres in size. It's popular for day trips and holidays among Melbournians, and it's also loved by country Victorians and interstate visitors. While weather in the Mornington Peninsula can definitely be cold this time of year, quality food and wine are the best way to heat yourself up. Surrounded by sea and surf, with warm restaurants in every direction, the Mornington Peninsula is the perfect winter destination.
The natural beauty of this region is probably its biggest drawcard. Point Nepean National Park offers rugged coastal scenery, Mornington Peninsula National Park features stunning beaches, and Arthur's Seat State Park provides breathtaking panoramic views. Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve and French Island National Park are also worth a visit, and there are beautiful beaches dotted across the entire coastline.
If you want a more cultured natural experience, you can also visit Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens, or the Enchanted Adventure Park in the Arthur's Seat hinterland. Along with majestic natural attractions, the Mornington Peninsula is also famous for its magnificent food and wine. If you want to experience the many tastes of the region, check out the Wine Food Farmgate Trail and Beer, Cider + Spirits Trail.
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It's perfect for farm to table long lunches and private celebrations where you can get lost in the views.You need to try a grazing-style feast before taking to Australia’s first vineyard-set pickleball court.Look out for the olive grove that powers it all - olives in every form, from food to self-care.Read moreGreen Olive at Red Hill features a winery, an olive grove, and a fabulous all-day farm restaurant. This beautiful property grows many of its own ingredients, from grapes and hops to herbs, veggies, and bush food. The menu is designed to accompany the wine collection, with nearby vineyards producing pinot grigio, chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz, and more. Green Olive at Red Hill also features Australia’s first winery-based pickleball court – the perfect winter activity.
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Read moreThe Cups Estate is a Mornington Peninsula institution. This stunning property features beautiful rolling vineyards, and it also has a great cellar door and restaurant. You get to enjoy a modern Australian menu with a Sicilian flair, including ingredients from the nearby organic vegetable garden. The restaurant offers spectacular views over the vineyard, so you can soak up the scenery and see exactly where your wine came from.
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Read moreTedesca Osteria delivers one of the best dining experiences in the Mornington Peninsula. You get to enjoy a traditional country-style kitchen, built around a wood-fired oven and grill. Local produce is supplied by Transition Farm and Torello Farm, with food also coming from local private market gardens. Set menus are available, with typical options including antipasto and handmade pasta along with seafood and meat courses. Yum!
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Read moreStillwater is a restaurant and cellar door at Crittenden Estate, one of the best wineries in the Mornington Peninsula. The carefully curated menu reflects local seasonal produce, with many ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Organic food is a big focus for the Stillwater team, along with wine selections from the surrounding vineyard. The modern dining room is light and airy, and it features outstanding views over the property perfect for cosy afternoons.
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Read moreTen Minutes by Tractor is another Mornington restaurant in a stunning vineyard setting. With a contemporary menu and spectacular wine list, you can be assured of a memorable culinary experience. Located in Main Ridge, Ten Minutes by Tractor features a sophisticated restaurant space with huge windows and an open kitchen. The wine and food tastes even better when you sit back and take in views of the surrounding countryside.
What are you waiting for? Choose a restaurant, pack the car, and enjoy a memorable winter road trip to this special part of Victoria.