The Best of the Mornington Peninsula: A C&G Guide

While we’re all too fond of our local Bayside region, every now and again we love to explore further afield. Just an hour out of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is home to great coffee, tasty local eateries, world-class wineries and bay views you just can’t beat. Here’s C&G’s guide to the very best of the Mornington Peninsula.

Mount Eliza

Just a short drive from Frankston sits Mount Eliza, which is home to some of Victoria’s finest real estate, and a sense of serenity that comes with falling outside of the metropolitan zone. Pick up a coffee for the road from Shop Ate or The Corner Pantry – and a sweet treat while you’re at it. Nearby Mornington is also a treat, where you’ll find plenty of cafés, restaurants and independent beachy shops to pick up some homewares.

Mount Martha

Historic park The Briars is a wonder for Francophiles and nature-lovers alike. The sprawling reserve features two significant walks, wetlands, and even occasion for spotting emus, koalas and wildlife! Onsite is also The Briars homestead, completed in 1851 by Alexander Balcombe. The Balcombe family were associated with Napoleon, and the homestead features a collection of unique Napoleonic memorabilia. Don’t forget to say hello to the friendly team at C&G Mount Martha, too!

Fingal

It’s Hot Springs time! You’ll be glad you packed your bathers once you arrive at Victoria’s most beautiful mineral pools, as you let your troubles melt away with a long soak in the selection of warm baths on offer.

Dromana

Stop in for a gander at the bathing boxes when you reach Dromana. Sure, Brighton’s are great, but there’s a whopping 1300 more of them lining the bay, so now’s your chance for another perspective on the classic bathing box. Then, unleash your inner curious child with a trip to the maze at Heronswood!

Rye

Stop for brekkie or brunch at Rye’s gorgeous selection of rustic eateries like Captain Picknics or Freaky Tiki. Enjoy a nice flat walk along the shores and up to the end of the pier – look closely and you’ll see Melbourne!

Sorrento

You’ve earned a tasty lunch by this point, so stop for fish and chips in Sorrento while you gaze over the water. Fish Fetish is well worth a visit for crispy fish and crunchy chips to warm your soul, or Italico Sorrento serves up the tastiest pizzas around. Once you’ve sated your appetite, head to the beautiful back beaches for your mermaid moment. During certain months, you can swim with dolphins in Sorrento, too! Sorrento’s exclusivity lends itself to high-end shops on the main strip, and independent stores offering unique giftware you won’t find in the city.

Portsea

Portsea is a real treat for the intrepid adventurer. In addition to its famous pub, Portsea offers a variety of walks and lookout points to soak up the views of the Peninsula. Rockforms and sites of interest will frame your itinerary, most notably the London Bridge arch and the former military defence facility that now occupies parts of Point Nepean, Fort Nepean.

In terms of wineries along your journey, they’re all so fabulous, we’ll let you make your own decisions! Browse the main locations here.