An hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula officially begins after you leave Frankston, Melbourne’s southernmost suburb – and you’ll feel the difference immediately.

Gliding off the Peninsula Link freeway, you begin to see the stunning champagne shores bordering the region’s coastline, charming vineyards dotting the hills, and picture-perfect putting greens as you wind through quieter rural areas such as Fingal, Dromana, Flinders, Rye and Red Hill.

Whether you’re up for a day trip, a weekend getaway or visiting for the whole summer, the Mornington Peninsula is a place where you can soak away your troubles in Fingal’s warm, mineral-rich waters, devour some of Victoria’s most acclaimed farm-to-table eats or find your way out of Australia’s oldest hedge maze.

This unique coastal region has sculpture gardens hidden among vineyards, scenic walks along Cape Schanck’s jagged coastline and, of course, plenty of pinot noir and chardonnay. Not only is the Peninsula home to dozens of outstanding cool-climate wineries, including Montalto and Pt. Leo Estate, but it’s also home to bespoke distilleries and craft breweries, including Victoria’s only dedicated rum distillery.

Impressive liquid offerings aside, the dining scene here is a veritable bounty of award-winning, critically acclaimed restaurants with a huge focus on local, seasonal produce. Outside of Mornington main street, fast-food chains have no place here and once you pass the final BP on the expressway, you’ll find your fair share of bespoke cafés where wholesome food is handmade from scratch.

There’s also a host of outdoor activities (did someone say ‘do-it-yourself’ cherry picking?), Sunday drives, and antique stores to keep you busy (or not so busy).

Please note that due to current restrictions some operators may be temporarily closed. Check their websites for the most up-to-date information