The Best of Mornington Peninsula in a Day

Located on the breezy coast just over an hour south of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is the ultimate luxurious getaway.

You can visit vineyards by day and nestle into spacious accommodation by night. Spend just one day in the Mornington Peninsula and you’ll discover why this region is one you could visit again and again.

Morning

9am: First coffee, then wine

Take in breakfast at any of the Mornington Peninsula’s top-notch cafés – Merchant & Maker and Store Fifteen are a few of the best.

After breakfast, it’s time to indulge in what this region is known for: wine. A renowned cool-climate wine region, the Mornington Peninsula is packed with outstanding wineries, enticing cellar doors and exceptional local cuisine.

Make your first stop Yabby Lake Vineyard in Tuerong where you can get to know the region’s famous pinot noir and chardonnay while savouring rolling vineyard views. Next, venture about 20 minutes to the boutique Polperro Wines in the heart of Red Hill for an intimate architect-designed, sit-down cellar door experience nestled among the vines.

11am: Visit Ten Minutes by Tractor

There’s more excellent wine tasting to be done just a short drive away at Ten Minutes by Tractor – the winery’s intriguing name is a nod to the family vineyards each set ten minutes apart. Taste your way through acclaimed wines that are as unique and characterful as the name. Make a note: the dining room next door is where chef Adam Sanderson serves up his innovative degustation menu.

12:30pm: Sit down for lunch

Many of the Mornington Peninsula’s wineries have incredible restaurants, but for something a little different book ahead for lunch at Tedesca Osteria, where Brigitte Hafner’s Italian-focused kitchen champions the best seasonal ingredients and local produce. Alternatively, keep it casual at Red Gum BBQ for unmissable slow-cooked, smoked Southern-style meats and an inspiring range of local craft beer.

Early Afternoon

2pm: Take a masterclass

With satisfied stomachs, hit the road again and keep an eye out for farmgate shops and opportunities to pick your own produce. You’ll love the abundance of this region in any season, from autumnal mushrooms and winter truffles to the sweet bounty of spring and summer fruits.

Call into Foxey’s Hangout for a fun tasting of still and sparkling wines straight from the barrel room. And if you’re keen to test your vintner skills, sign up for a Create Your Own Sparkling class and take home a bottle that’s uniquely yours.

3pm: Stop in at Jackalope Hotel

Jackalope Hotel is a mainstay of the Mornington Peninsula, offering everything from stunning regional dining and accommodation to premium wine tastings and picnics. Drive about 15 minutes to indulge in a cheese plate or glass of wine.

4pm: Stroll through Pt Leo’s sculpture park

When it’s time to stretch your legs in the sea air, make it a memorable stop at the Pt Leo Estate sculpture park, where impressive artworks come with a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views. Head through the minimalist modern entrance, past the wine tasting room and the estate’s hatted restaurants – Pt Leo and Laura – and into the park. A gently winding path leads you past 60 large-scale works created by both local and international artists. 

Late afternoon and Evening

5pm: Sample boutique spirits

Revived and inspired, drive about 20 minutes to the seaside village of Dromana, an emerging hub for boutique beverages. Stop into JimmyRum, the first dedicated craft rum distillery in Victoria. Book a distilling experience to blend your own bottle to take home with you.