The Mornington Peninsula
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The Mornington Peninsula
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The Mornington Peninsula
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The Mornington Peninsula
One Of Victoria’s Most Picturesque Destinations.
An hour’s leisurely drive south-east of Melbourne or two hour’s drive from Phillip Island you will discover one of Victoria’s most picturesque destinations which has been enjoyed by visitors from all parts of the globe for generations, relax and enjoy spectacular scenery and the natural beauty that is the Mornington Peninsula.
Defined on three sides by the waters of Port Phillip Bay, Western Port and Bass Strait the Mornington Peninsula is surrounded by gently rolling hills, kilometers of sparkling beaches, rugged surf beaches and spectacular coastal scenery.
Boot-shaped similar to Italy extending from the mainland between Pearcedale and Frankston in a south west direction for approximately 40 kilometres at a width between 15 to 20 kilometres, it then begins to extend roughly 15 kilometres in a west/north west direction and then tapers down to a width of 2 to 3 kilometers before terminating at Point Nepean. The highest point, Arthurs Seat, stands at 305 metres above sea level.
Often referred to as “Melbourne’s Playground” there is much to see and do – explore 20 odd coastal villages, heritage mansions, art and craft, antiques and speciality shops, visit one of the 50+ cellar doors whoes vineyards are producing some of the best wine grapes in the country take your clubs and play a round of golf at one of the 19 internationally recognized courses dotted around the Peninsula, take your boat or hire a boat for every water based activity imaginable, swim with the dolphins, pitch a tent on the foreshore opposite the beach or stay in five star accommodation, dine in some of the best eateries, shop in gourmet produce stores, experience culture, art and heritage.
Dining Out
The Peninsula has a reputation for fine dining with local restaurants and cafes offering the freshest local produce, seafood and meats.
Accommodation
From top of the range to camping on the foreshore you will find accommodation to suit your needs.
Activities
The Mornington Peninsula has plenty to offer whether it be man made or natural attractions such as swimming, surfing, scuba diving, diving, sailing, swimming with dolphins and seals, fishing from the jetties or join a charter boat expedition to the fishing grounds in Port Phillip Bay. Go horse riding along the sands of Gunnamatta Beach. Go punting on horses at the Mornington racecourse, get lost in a maze – there is so much to see and do. And of course you can sit on the beach and read a book.
Day Trips
The Mornington Peninsula is connected to Phillip Island and French Island by the Inter Island Passenger Ferry (no vehicles info ph: 03 9585 5730) departs from Stony Point drops off at Tankerton and Cowes jetties.
The impressive Queenscliff Sorrento Car Passenger Ferry connects the Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsula and The Great Ocean Road - departs Sorrento Pier and Queenscliff Harbour on the hour every hour 7 days a week (extra trips summer) Trip across Port Phillip Bay takes approximately 40 minutes.
Mornington
Rapidly expanding seaside resort cradled on high ground overlooking Port Phillip Bay and the harbour of Schnapper Point. Mornington has a large permanent population well serviced by an excellent shopping centre, restaurants and cafes with a mixture of new and historic buildings such as The Grand Hotel.
Dromana
Approximately 70kms south-east from Melbourne the holiday resort of Dromana has great beaches, a fine shopping centre, restaurants, cafes, accommodation to suit all requirements from pitching a tent on the foreshore to luxury waterfront apartments. Also home to one of the last remaining drive in theatres in Victoria.
Arthurs Seat, 5kms from Dromana is 305 meters above Port Phillip Bay and commands spectacular views of Port Phillip Bay as far as the eye can see. Accommodation with spectacular views is available in the immediate area
Rosebud
Is the second largest town on the Peninsula with everything you would expect from a progressive seaside resort. Rosebud enjoys clean, sheltered beaches opposite the main street, excellent golf courses, wineries, cinema, no wonder camping on the foreshore has been popular with families for generations. The pier extends 300metres into the bay.
Rye
Another progressive Peninsula coastal village with a great reputation with holiday makers. Rye main beach is opposite the main street and has a popular family beach with facilities such as picnic tables, playgrounds and toilets. There are several boat ramps and a jetty to stroll along or fish from.
Sorrento
Has been a favourite holiday destination for Victorians since the early 1800’s when it was quite an effort to travel to this coastal village at the southern end of the Peninsula. Today, natural seaside charm, historic limestone buildings including the 3 hotels in the main street, good food and wine and a relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere ad to the ambience that is Sorrento.
Portsea
The most prestigious town on the Mornington Peninsula bordering Point Nepean National Park. Portsea is home to many of Melbourne’s better known families whose multi million dollar cliff top mansions are celebrated landmarks.
Westernport Bay
The towns facing Westernport Bay such as Hastings and Flinders are known for secluded bays and good fishing so it is recommended that you take the time to explore
Hastings
Progressive town south of Melbourne with modern shopping centre situated close to a natural deep sea harbor which features large marina and a foreshore area with picnic and bbq facilities, walking tracks and Pelican Park Recreation Centre which houses a gym, indoor heated pool, spa, steam room and kiosk. Fishing is still an important local industry.
Flinders
Historic town on the Mornington Peninsula 90km south of from Melbourne , situated on the coast where Westernport Bay meet Bass Strait. Flinders is a peaceful retreat and a popular holiday destination that has flourished during recent years. The local golf club, established in the early 1900s, is one of the most scenic courses in Victoria overlooking the ocean. Take your time to explore, have lunch at the pub.