Guides

The Ultimate Road Trip – Mornington Peninsula, Days 3+4

Day 3 + 4: Mornington Peninsula

Hot springs, vineyard dining, and breathtaking coastal adventures.

A short drive or scenic ferry ride brings you to the Mornington Peninsula, a destination where relaxation meets indulgence. From soaking in geo-thermal springs and dining at award-winning vineyards to dolphin swims and cliff-top walks, this two-day stay is a feast for the senses. Couples can revel in luxury resorts and fine dining, while families will find plenty of fun-filled attractions and coastal adventures.

With boutique farm stops, artisan treats, and unforgettable sunsets, Mornington Peninsula is a highlight of the road trip, offering the perfect balance of wellness, flavour, and natural beauty.

Discover the itinerary below.

Mornington Peninsula Map

Day 3 of the Ultimate Victorian Road Trip

Soak, Sip & Sunset Views

Morning
Ease into the day with a rejuvenating soak at Peninsula Hot Springs or Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, the ultimate wellness experience.

Lunch
Choose from world-class dining at Pt Leo Estate (with its sculpture park), Montalto, or the vibrant Many Little.

Afternoon
Ride the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola for sweeping coastal views, then head to Cape Schanck for a photogenic lighthouse walk.

Evening
Round out the day with dinner at Hotel Sorrento or Rare Hare, or the celebrated Ten Minutes by Tractor.

Day 4 of the Ultimate Victorian Road Trip

Coast & Cellar Doors

Morning
Adventure-seekers can jump into a dolphin swim with Moonraker Dolphin Swims or Polperro Dolphin Swims. Prefer something slower? Settle into a leisurely lunch at The Rocks Mornington or Port Phillip Estate.

Afternoon
Sip your way through local wineries such as Yabby Lake Vineyard or Crittenden Wines. Families can swap tastings for the thrills of the Enchanted Adventure, Moonlit Sanctuary, or Boneo Discovery Park.

Evening
Stock up on artisan treats from Torello Farm and candles at Red Hill Candle Co. & Perfumery, then relax at your chosen Peninsula stay.

Stay immersed in wellness at Peninsula Hot Springs, indulge in coastal luxury at InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula or RACV Cape Schanck Resort, or enjoy boutique charm at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill and Peppers Moonah Links Resort.

Discover More and Links to Book

Glamping at Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs is redefining glamping with luxury tents designed for ultimate relaxation. Nestled in natural surrounds, each tent features a king bed, walk-in robe, ensuite, and a private deck. Heated floors and climate control ensure comfort year-round. Perfect for couples, guests enjoy direct access to the award-winning hot springs, spa treatments, wellness classes, and on-site dining. Combining indulgence and nature, it’s a complete wellness retreat just 90 minutes from Melbourne.

Whether soaking in geothermal waters, enjoying a massage, or stargazing by your tent, glamping here is a unique way to reconnect, rejuvenate, and reawaken in nature.

InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula

The InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula brings timeless elegance to the coast, blending historic charm with modern luxury. Since 1875, this landmark has welcomed guests to experience the Peninsula’s glamour, just steps from beaches, restaurants, and boutiques. Rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed, many overlooking the Sorrento foreshore and township. With refined interiors, contemporary comforts, and the prestige of the InterContinental name, it offers a luxurious base for exploring nearby wineries, beaches, and attractions.

Perfect for a romantic getaway or indulgent escape, InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula delivers a coastal retreat where history, sophistication, and relaxed seaside living come together beautifully.

RACV Cape Schanck Resort

RACV Cape Schanck Resort is a five-star retreat where rugged coastline meets contemporary design. Perched on Victoria’s southern tip, it combines clifftop views, ocean breezes, and luxury facilities. The resort features a championship golf course, luxury spa, and inventive dining at Cape Restaurant, celebrating local produce and coastal flavours. Guests enjoy stylish rooms, a range of dining venues, and access to nearby wineries, beaches, and walking tracks.

Whether soaking up panoramic sunsets, relaxing at the spa, or tackling the fairways, the resort offers an experience truly shaped by nature. A destination in itself, it’s the perfect Mornington Peninsula base year-round.

Lancemore Lindenderry

Set among 34 acres of vineyards and gardens, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill is a boutique country estate that embodies Peninsula charm. Just an hour from Melbourne, its 40 elegant rooms and suites feature plush beds, serene views, and inviting communal spaces, perfect for relaxing with a glass of Pinot by the fire. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool, sauna, tennis courts, or wander leafy trails around the property. On-site dining highlights seasonal produce, while the cellar door showcases award-winning Lindenderry wines.

With its sense of escape and timeless Red Hill scenery, Lindenderry is ideal for romantic or restorative getaways.

Peppers Moonah Links Resort

Peppers Moonah Links Resort blends championship golf and modern comfort in a serene Peninsula setting. Offering 70 deluxe rooms and suites with balconies overlooking manicured greens, the resort is a haven for golfers and leisure seekers alike. Facilities include two 18-hole golf courses, an outdoor pool, gym, and practice ranges. Dining at Pebbles Restaurant and Spike Bar showcases fresh, regional produce with relaxed flair. Conveniently located near Peninsula Hot Springs, wineries, and breweries, it’s a versatile base for couples, families, and groups.

Whether teeing off, tasting local wine, or unwinding in natural surrounds, Peppers Moonah Links Resort has something for all.

Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs is a world-renowned wellness destination, where geothermal waters flow into over 70 globally inspired bathing experiences. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, it features the lively Bath House with cave pools, reflexology walks, a Turkish hammam, and a hilltop pool with sweeping views. The tranquil Spa Dreaming Centre, for ages 16+, offers private bathing, massages, saunas, and relaxation lounges. Guests can also enjoy wellness workshops, dining, and cultural experiences on-site.

Whether soaking in a geothermal pool, stepping into the ice cave, or unwinding with a massage, Peninsula Hot Springs is a restorative sanctuary for mind, body, and soul.

Alba Thermal Springs & Spa

Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is a luxury wellness sanctuary nestled in landscaped gardens at Fingal. Its contemporary design blends with nature, offering serene bathing across botanical, forest, and rooftop pools. Signature experiences include indulgent half- or full-day spa rituals, wellness packages, and treatments in tranquil suites. The on-site restaurant, Thyme, showcases locally sourced seasonal produce with menus curated by acclaimed chef Karen Martini. With an emphasis on relaxation and restoration, Alba is ideal for couples or friends seeking a world-class spa experience.

Elegant, modern, and deeply restorative, Alba sets a new standard for luxury bathing on the Mornington Peninsula.

Montalto

Montalto is a celebrated estate where wine, food, and art converge. Family-owned since 1997, its 30 acres of vines produce premium cool-climate wines, crafted by award-winning winemaker Simon Black. Seasonal produce from expansive kitchen gardens inspires the menus at The Restaurant and The Piazza, where dining celebrates freshness and creativity. Guests can enjoy guided tastings, wander the sculpture-studded grounds, or simply sip a glass while overlooking the vines. Known for producing wines with character and depth, Montalto offers experiences from casual grazing to fine dining.

It’s a destination where every detail, from vineyard to plate, reflects the heart of Mornington Peninsula.

Many Little

Many Little Bar & Dining is Red Hill’s hidden gem, combining a stylish Hecker Guthrie interior with bold, modern Asian flavours. The menu draws inspiration from Sri Lankan heritage, using organic produce from nearby Polperro Farm. Guests can savour refined cocktails and wines alongside craft beers and spirits.

The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between destination dining and a welcoming local spot. Flavours from afar meet ingredients grown nearby, creating dishes that are vibrant, memorable, and unique to the Mornington Peninsula. It’s a must-visit for food lovers.

Arthurs Seat Little

Arthurs Seat is the Mornington Peninsula’s scenic highpoint, rising 314 metres above sea level with sweeping coastal views. Visitors can take in the sights from the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola, explore walking trails through Arthurs Seat State Park, or enjoy the gardens at Seawinds. Families love the nearby Enchanted Adventure, filled with mazes, tube slides, and tree surfing adventures.

The scenic loop drive reveals rolling hills, vineyards, and lookouts perfect for photos. Just over an hour from Melbourne, Arthurs Seat is an iconic attraction blending natural beauty, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun in one spectacular location.

Cape Schanck

Cape Schanck marks the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, where wild beauty and history combine. The heritage lighthouse, over 160 years old, offers fascinating tours and dramatic ocean views. Walking tracks, including the Two Bays Trail, reveal rugged cliffs, surf beaches, and unique geology. Nearby, Bushrangers Bay and Fingal provide further opportunities for hiking and photography. Surrounded by Mornington Peninsula National Park, Cape Schanck is also close to world-class golf courses and wineries.

Its raw landscapes and windswept scenery make it an inspiring stop, perfect for those who love nature, history, and a taste of Victoria’s dramatic coastline.

Hotel Sorrento

Hotel Sorrento Restaurant

Perched on a hill with sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay, Hotel Sorrento blends coastal charm with refined dining. Family-owned for nearly 40 years, this iconic three-level venue has been welcoming locals and visitors since the 1800s. The restaurant champions fresh, seasonal produce, offering elevated pub favourites and relaxed coastal dishes. Whether it’s steak and seafood or fresh tacos and salads, every meal is designed to share and savour.

With five vibrant bars, from the open-air Salt Bar and laid-back Main Bar to the scenic Rooftop and alfresco Lawn, there’s a perfect spot for every mood and moment.

Rare Hare

Rare Hare is a playful food and wine destination at the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. Overlooking rolling vineyards and the striking Jackalope Hotel, it offers a vibrant dining experience built around curiosity and creativity. Indulge in bold, seasonal dishes from local produce, complemented by Estate wines that reflect the land and its seasons. The relaxed indoor-outdoor setting features a wood-fired oven and stunning views across vine-clad hills.

With a welcoming, lively atmosphere, Rare Hare is ideal for long lunches with friends, leisurely wine tastings, and indulgent meals that celebrate the Mornington Peninsula’s spirit of adventure.

Ten Minutes by Tractor

Ten Minutes by Tractor is a leading cool-climate winery and restaurant, set among three vineyards in Main Ridge. Its cellar door offers intimate tastings of Estate wines, including acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Guests can explore the stylish Allis Wine Bar, where small plates pair perfectly with curated pours. In the fine dining restaurant, enjoy an innovative menu showcasing local produce, elevated by classical French training and global experience.

From vineyard tours to exquisite dining, every experience reveals the craft and passion behind Ten Minutes by Tractor, making it a premier destination for wine lovers.

Moonraker Dolphin Swims

Moonraker Dolphin Swims offers award-winning eco-adventures on Port Phillip Bay. Operating for over 30 years, this family-run company specialises in encounters with wild dolphins, fur seals, and even weedy sea dragons. Luxury purpose-built vessels feature sun decks, lounges, and onboard cafes for comfort. Guests of all ages can snorkel with seals, watch dolphins play, or simply take in the Bay’s scenic beauty. Guided by an experienced crew passionate about marine life, tours are safe, inclusive, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re an adventurer or observer, Moonraker Dolphin Swims creates remarkable wildlife experiences that connect you with the Mornington Peninsula’s vibrant underwater world.

Polperro Dolphin Swims

Polperro Dolphin Swims, established in 1986, pioneered sustainable marine tourism on Port Phillip Bay. Family-owned and operated, their classic boat, Polperro, hosts small groups for intimate encounters with dolphins, seals, and reef life. Safety, conservation, and respect for the animals are at the core of every experience. Guests can swim alongside playful seals, snorkel among colourful reefs, or watch dolphins from the deck. Freshly baked scones, tea, and coffee are served onboard, adding a homely touch.

With decades of expertise and a deep connection to the bay, Polperro Dolphin Swims offers magical, environmentally responsible adventures loved by visitors worldwide.

The Rocks Mornington

The Rocks Mornington has been a waterfront dining icon since 2001, offering fresh, seafood-focused cuisine with views across Port Phillip Bay. Its menu celebrates local produce with global influences, featuring everything from delicate sashimi to hearty crustaceans, sourced from on-site saltwater tanks. Guests can choose relaxed outdoor dining on the deck or a stylish indoor experience. Equally popular with locals and visitors, The Rocks Mornington is known for quality, consistency, and friendly service.

Perfect for a casual lunch, sunset dinner, or special event, it captures the Mornington Peninsula’s coastal lifestyle while delivering exceptional seafood dining year after year.

Port Phillip Estate

Port Phillip Estate is both an architectural landmark and a celebrated winery on the Mornington Peninsula. Designed by Wood Marsh, its dramatic limestone building houses a refined dining room, contemporary cellar door, and six luxury suites. Guests can savour innovative cuisine with European flair in the restaurant, enjoy relaxed meals at the Cellar Door Kitchen, or taste award-winning wines while overlooking sweeping vineyard and coastal views. Known for premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the Estate pairs exceptional wine with equally memorable design and hospitality.

It’s a must-visit for those seeking sophistication, stunning scenery, and world-class food and wine experiences.

Yabby Lake Vineyard

Yabby Lake Vineyard is renowned for producing Australia’s first Pinot Noir to win the prestigious Jimmy Watson Trophy. Just 50 minutes from Melbourne, its cellar door and restaurant offer sweeping vineyard views, a dynamic Australian art collection, and exceptional cool-climate wines. Visitors can taste Single Vineyard and Single Block releases alongside the approachable Red Claw label. Seasonal menus complement the wines, perfect for long lunches by the fire or relaxed afternoons on the deck.

With its reputation for excellence and welcoming atmosphere, Yabby Lake is a destination where fine wine, art, and a love of the land come together.

Crittenden Wines

Crittenden Wines is one of the Peninsula’s most respected family-owned wineries, established in 1982. Known for consistently award-winning cool-climate wines, it offers seated tastings that allow guests to explore an extensive range in comfort with expert guidance. James Halliday consistently rates it among Australia’s top wineries, awarding five red stars. The scenic property features a serene lake and welcoming cellar door.

With its legacy of passion, innovation, and excellence, Crittenden offers an intimate wine experience that reflects both family tradition and the best of Mornington Peninsula’s terroir.

Enchanted Adventure

Enchanted Adventure is the Mornington Peninsula’s award-winning natural attraction, combining adventure and fun in a beautiful bushland setting. Families can tackle tube slides, tree surfing high ropes courses, canopy walks, and mazes, or explore themed gardens and giant sculptures. For kids, the Nippers course offers scaled-down thrills, while adults and teens can take on the Grand course. With puzzles, nature trails, and plenty of space to explore, it’s an all-ages destination for outdoor fun.

Just minutes from Arthurs Seat, Enchanted Adventure encourages visitors to reconnect with nature, challenge themselves, and share unforgettable moments in a vibrant, scenic environment.

Moonlit Sanctuary

Moonlit Sanctuary offers a close encounter with Australia’s native wildlife just 50 minutes from Melbourne. Home to over 60 species, visitors can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, cuddle koalas, and see dingoes, reptiles, colourful birds, and endangered animals. Keeper talks and interactive shows run throughout the day, while night tours reveal the magic of the nocturnal bush, spotlighting gliders, quolls, and pythons. Family-friendly and award-winning, the sanctuary combines education and fun, helping visitors connect with nature while supporting vital conservation efforts.

With its immersive setting and unique experiences, Moonlit Sanctuary is a must for animal lovers of all ages.

Torello Farm

Torello Farm is a farm gate experience that feels like a year-round farmers’ market. The ever-changing selection includes seasonal Mornington Peninsula produce, from truffles and avocados to strawberries. Visitors can buy award-winning grass-fed Belted Galloway beef and Dorset Down lamb, celebrated for their rich flavour, as well as handmade preserves, sourdough bread, cheeses, and take-home meals. The farm also hosts workshops on seasonal growing and cooking, sharing knowledge and passion for local food.

Just minutes from Red Hill, Torello is both a shop and an experience, where sustainability, quality, and community come together in true farm-to-table fashion.

Red Hill Candle Co. & Perfumery

Red Hill Candle Co & Perfumery offers a creative, hands-on experience alongside its boutique gift store. Visitors can browse eco-friendly soy candles, homewares, and local artisan goods, or design a custom fragrance at the in-store Scent Bar. With over 40 scents to choose from, guests can blend their own unique candle, diffuser, or room spray. Group workshops at the Scent Lab cater for birthdays, hen’s parties, or team days, making it a memorable outing. Surrounded by wineries, distilleries, and breweries, it’s easy to pair with a full day out in Dromana.

A destination for creativity and connection, it’s more than just a shop.

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