It’s hard to believe the season of winter is nearly upon us. A time where cool breezes sweep through the air on crisp clear-sky mornings and puffs of smoke billow from nearby chimneys. A time when days are cosy and peaceful, and when nights are starry and luminous. Here on the Mornington Peninsula, the start of winter coincides with a reawakening of the senses and newfound desire for discovery. And while the temptation to stay in the comforts of our own home may be undeniably strong, we encourage you to step outside and explore more of our wonderful region. The below Winter Bucket List is the best place to begin:
Nature is Calling:
1. Journey through the lush and verdant bushland of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne. 10km of walking paths, 6km of cycling tracks, a lookout tower and more are all here to uncover.
2. Bathe in the naturally warmed geothermal waters at Peninsula Hot Springs, reconnecting with yourself, those around you as well as the surrounding environment. Both day and night bathing experiences are here to soothe and rejuvenate.
3. Tee off at one of the Mornington Peninsula’s world class Golfing Courses, all characterised by excellent playing grounds and spectacular vistas. We know the cold won’t stop the veterans!
4. Roam along the Balcombe Estuary Boardwalk, through rugged Mount Martha bushland and to the historical park of The Briars (where additional walking tracks are available!)
Delicious Indulgence:
1. Discover a new favourite taste from one of the region’s leading Cellar Doors. We’ve picked out the Top 11 for you here!
2. Follow the Beer, Cider and Spirits Trail to meet the local brewers, cider makers and distillers who are the experts of their craft. Of course, sample a splash (or more) of one of the unique creations on offer.
3. Warm up with a signature coffee or tea at Le Capucin in Portsea or Blue Mini in Rosebud. The temptation to stay for a gourmet brunch will be hard to resist.
4. Add a slice of sweetness to the day with a visit to Cocoa Rouge Chocolaterie in Red Hill. Browse through an extensive range of artisan-made chocolates, perfect for a gift to give (or to keep for yourself!
5. Enjoy a winter-inspired menu overlooking the vines at one of our superb Winery Restaurants. You’ll find a collection of the Mornington Peninsula’s most loved destinations here!
Along The Artistic Avenue:
1. Tour the extraordinary, between Manyung Gallery in Flinders, Mount Eliza and Sorrento; you’ll be dazzled by the depth of creativity, talent and inspiration.
2. Make the trip to Frankston Arts Centre to enjoy the latest spectacle, with shows ranging from the comedic to musical, operatic to circus-inspired.
3. Explore more of the Mornington Peninsula’s outdoor galleries, including the Sculpture Park at Pt. Leo Estate in Merricks and Sculpture Trail at Montalto in Red Hill South.
4. Become immersed in a sea of colour and captivation at Everywhen Artspace in Flinders (specialising in Aboriginal art) as well as & Gallery Australia in Sorrento.
Stay A Little Longer:
1. When the outside chill prevails, find comfort at a luxurious retreat alongside the rolling vineyard hills. We’ve picked out 5 magnificent ones for you here!
2. But if you do want to brave the brisk outdoors, then choose to do it in style with Iluka Retreat in Red Hill South. Their glamping experience is purely unbeatable, where you and your special someone (or family) can sleep beneath the stars whilst surrounded by thriving bushland.
For The Thrill-Seekers:
1. Escape the ordinary and unlock the ongoing mysteries at Locked in Escape Rooms in Mornington. Prepare to be challenged, puzzled and unquestionably enthused.
2. Hop on board the iconic Mornington Tourist Railway, departing each Sunday of every month. There’s even the chance to check out the fan-favourite Moorooduc Station Market pre or post journey.
3. Pop on your skates and roll over to Sk8house in Carrum Downs for an afternoon of entertainment overload and pure family fun.
Something A Bit Different:
1. On the second Sunday of the month, take a tour of the American colonial-style house and estate that is Mulberry Hill. As the original residence of Sir Daryl and Lady Joan Lindsay, the site is bursting with historical elegance and allure.
2. Partake in an expert-led cooking class at Georgie Bass Cafe and Cookery in Flinders. Our pick for the season? The Winter Entertaining Cooking Class sounds just perfect!
3. Surrender yourself to a luxurious treatment at One Spa at RACV Cape Schanck Resort, with experiences ranging from massages to manicures, facials to pedicures.
4. Explore the McCrae Homestead and Museum for a unique insight into life of early pioneers. As one of the oldest Victorian homesteads to exist, the site contains a rare collection of 19th century heirlooms, antiques and artworks, providing an unparalleled ‘step back in time’ for those who visit.
Winter is well and truly coming to the Mornington Peninsula. Where will you begin the adventure ahead