1. General Questions & Planning
What is the Mornington Peninsula famous for?
The Peninsula combines calm bay beaches with colourful bathing boxes, wild surf on the back beaches, rolling vineyard hills, hot springs and award-winning dining. It’s a place where you can begin with yoga by the sea, enjoy a long vineyard lunch, and finish with a soak under the stars.
How many days do I need?
You can visit in a day from Melbourne, but two to three nights allows you to slow down—vineyard tastings, hot springs at sunset, and coastal walks balanced with indulgent dining.
When is the best time to visit?
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- Summer (Dec–Feb): lively beaches, festivals, alfresco dining.
- Autumn (Mar–May): wine harvest, truffles, mild evenings.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): hot springs, cosy retreats, whales offshore.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): wildflowers, gardens, fresh produce.
Can I visit as a day trip from Melbourne?
Yes, many do. A private day tour can combine vineyard tastings, coastal walks, hot springs and a long lunch. For a deeper experience, two to three nights is ideal.
Do I need insider help?
Yes if you want more than the basics. With insider access you’ll enjoy private tastings, reserved spa sessions, and after-hours vineyard dining—experiences unavailable to the general public.
2. Food, Wine & Wellness
What are the best food and wine experiences?
- Pt. Leo Estate — wine, dining and a world-class sculpture park.
- Rare Hare at Jackalope — inventive vineyard dining.
- Ten Minutes by Tractor — benchmark winery restaurant.
- Montalto — wine, food and art in a vineyard estate.
- Polperro & Port Phillip Estate — bold architecture and seasonal menus.
- Trofeo Estate — organic wines in amphorae, estate dining.
- Farmgates & markets — truffles, olive oil, cheese, berries and seafood.
We arrange private tastings with winemakers, farmgate meals with chefs, and vineyard experiences beyond the public access.
What are your favourite wineries?
- Ten Minutes by Tractor — consistently among the best.
- Ocean Eight — boutique and elegant.
- Pt. Leo Estate — superb wine paired with art.
- Port Phillip Estate — striking design and refined pinot/chardonnay.
- Quealy — pioneers of alternative varietals with warmth and charm.
What are the best spa and wellness experiences?
- Peninsula Hot Springs — globally renowned bathing culture.
- Alba Thermal Springs & Spa — refined design, private pavilions.
- Aurora Spa at the Continental Sorrento — innovative therapies in a landmark hotel.
- Beachside yidaki meditation — sound healing with didgeridoo beside the sea.
3. Things to Do & See
What are the must-see attractions?
- Jackalope Hotel — design icon with art and fine dining.
- Barragunda Estate — historic coastal property offering rare private access.
- Port Phillip Bay beaches — calm waters and bathing boxes.
- Back beaches — rugged cliffs and surf.
- Sorrento & Portsea — boutique villages with galleries and history.
- Mornington Peninsula National Park — coastal walks, lookouts and wildlife.
What are the best active adventures?
- Golf at The National and Moonah Links.
- Surfing and paddle boarding from bays to back beaches.
- Diving and snorkelling among reefs and weedy sea dragons.
- Hiking in Mornington Peninsula National Park.
- Cycling & e-biking through vineyard trails.
- Horse riding on beach or bush trails.
What are the best lookouts, and how can I escape the crowds?
- Arthurs Seat — sweeping views across bay and city.
- Cape Schanck — dramatic cliffs and Southern Ocean.
- London Bridge (Portsea) — natural arch carved by waves.
- Bushrangers Bay — quieter coastal walk to a stunning beach.
We time visits outside peak hours, or arrange helicopter flights for a private perspective.
4. Nature & Wildlife
Where can I see wildlife?
- Dolphins & seals — swim or cruise in Port Phillip Bay.
- Kangaroos & wallabies — common in hinterland and golf courses.
- Birdlife — wetlands and reserves alive with species.
Are there exclusive nature experiences?
Yes. We arrange private wildlife encounters with conservationists, secluded coastal picnics, and fireside meals with local chefs—ways of experiencing the Peninsula that most visitors never find.
Plan Your Journey
The Mornington Peninsula is indulgent, restorative and deeply rewarding when done right. Speak to us about creating a private journey tailored to your passions and pace.
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