Red Hill and Main Ridge are a small rural communities located in the hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula. They boast a landscape of scenic hills, rolling vistas of farmland and native bushland. This is serious food, wine and indulgence country. As you travel along the main roads you will discover a variety of interesting vineyards, breweries and distilleries.
Flourishing olive groves, orchards, vineyards, cafes, restaurants, cheese makers, gourmet produce stores, local markets, galleries are scattered alongside roadside signs for farm gates and pick-your-own produce farms. Cherries, strawberries and apples are also grown and available seasonally at the farm gate.
Since the 1970s, wineries have been established around Red Hill to take advantage of the microclimates that suits cool climate grapes, and especially pinot noir and chardonnay. Many of the vineyards offer boutique cellar door winery experiences. Tucked away along the winding roads and shady laneways around Red Hill visitors will also find galleries, cafes and restaurants. This is regional dining at its absolute best, where chefs are inspired by bountiful produce from their kitchen gardens and the local region. Many of the highly-rated winery restaurants match regional dishes to regional wines and, if you really want to explore the wine list, you can catch a local shuttle service from your boutique B&B or hinterland hotel instead of driving your car. There are luxurious retreats, charming cottages, day spas and Victoria’s grand dame of regional markets is here too. The monthly Red Hill Market (September to May) is a microcosm of the region’s fresh produce and gourmet goodies, with lots of art, craft, clothing and plants as well.
Red Hill is approximately a 1 hour and 10 minute drive (86 kilometres) south of Melbourne.