The Peninsula is a popular destination for tourists and locals in Melbourne, offering everything needed for a relaxing getaway just an hour’s drive away.
The Bellarine Peninsula offers a variety of amenities, including wineries, beaches, and stunning scenery. It is a less crowded but equally enjoyable alternative to the more famous Mornington Peninsula. Visitors can enjoy a unique and relaxing getaway experience with plenty of activities and accommodation options available.
The Bellarine Peninsula offers stunning views of the sea, farmlands, vineyards, and Australian countryside, making it a must-visit destination for all travellers.
Untapped Wineries & Breweries
Visiting wineries and craft breweries is a popular activity in the Peninsula region, offering a variety of local wines, ciders, and beers to try.
The Bellarine Taste Trail offers a variety of wineries to visit, making it difficult to choose. The local business owners in Bellarine are what sets it apart. Many wineries are family-owned, creating a more personal experience for guests. Some wineries have stunning bay views, while others have a unique charm that intrigues visitors.
Explore the wineries in Bellarine with the Bellarine Food & Wine Taste Trail Map. See how many you can visit on your next trip to the Bellarine Peninsula!
There is a village for each day
Bellarine has unique villages that make it a special place for a romantic or family holiday. Each village has its own personality and charm. One common feature among all the villages is the absence of over-development and highrises. This sets Bellarine apart from Mornington Peninsula. The towns are easily accessible, allowing visitors to explore multiple villages at their convenience.
Queenscliff, a historic town in Victoria, is often compared to a British seaside resort. It is known for its beauty and attracts many visitors with its charming guesthouses, cottages, and hotels.
Point Lonsdale is a coastal town that overlooks the ‘Rip’, known as one of the most dangerous strips of water in the world. It is a popular destination for day-trippers and families, with beautiful landmarks such as the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, which is often used for photography and weddings.
Ocean Grove, with its coastal town atmosphere, offers a variety of activities including golf courses, beaches, wineries, and scenic views, making it a popular destination for families.
Destination Dining
Melbourne’s culinary scene and cafe culture have significantly influenced the Peninsula. Wherever you choose to visit in the Bellarine, you will always find a nearby coffee shop or restaurant serving the region’s best offerings.
Some restaurants in the Bellarine region focus on regional Australian cooking and use fresh, farm-to-table produce and meat. These restaurants, like the local wineries, value locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can also pick their fruits and vegetables at local farmsteads, such as Tuckerberry Hill Farm, which is popular for blueberry and strawberry picking. Additionally, visitors can purchase produce and handmade products at their onsite shop.
Bellarine is recognized for its notable winery restaurants like Jack Rabbit Restaurant, Oakdene Vineyards Restaurant, The Shed Restaurant at Terindah Estate, and Vue Grand Hotel.
For those interested in food and wine, consider picking up a copy of the Bellarine Food & Wine Taste Trail Map to explore the Bellarine Peninsula’s culinary scene.
Fun at Every Age!
The Bellarine Peninsula offers a range of activities for both couples and families to enjoy. Plan a day or weekend trip for an enjoyable experience that will not disappoint.
Families often enjoy visiting the beach for boogie boarding, surfing, and paddleboarding activities. Other attractions like A Maze ‘N Games and Adventure Park provide additional entertainment options for visitors.
To connect with nature and learn about Australian wildlife, visit the Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you can see rescued koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, and other unique animals up close. This sanctuary is a good choice for families and animal enthusiasts. You may even have the opportunity to cuddle a baby koala or joey!
The Aboriginal Culture Center in Grovedale is a place where nature and culture come together. Visitors can explore Aboriginal cultural displays, an Art Gallery, Cafe Narana, and a retail outlet surrounded by gardens and trees. Emus and wallabies can be spotted on the grounds. There are opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture, including how to throw a boomerang from an expert.
Visitors can enjoy various activities in this location, including beach and water sports, miniature golf, and giant mazes. There are numerous options for entertainment and fun for all.
A Water Lover’s Paradise
The Bellarine Peninsula is known for its various water sports and activities, catering to both experienced enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Searoad Ferries offers a cruise between the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsula, with the option to enjoy lunch on the other side. It is a group activity suitable for all ages.
Victoria has many reputable dive companies for those interested in diving. The ex-HMAS Canberra is Victoria’s first artificial reef for divers to explore. Beginners can sign up for a scuba diving adventure to see old shipwrecks and vibrant marine life like seahorses and stingrays. Dive into the bay and discover a whole new underwater world.
Visitors to Geelong can enjoy a stroll along the Esplanade at the foreshore, where they can view the famous bollards. The area offers attractions for all ages, including the scenic waterfront, Geelong Carousel, Adventure Park, and holiday and caravan parks with a nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere.
If you’re unsure about what to do or feeling stressed about travelling with a group or small children, don’t worry! Let the experts at the Bellarine Peninsula help you plan your exciting adventure.
Breathtaking Beaches
During the Summer, the Bellarine Peninsula is popular among beachgoers. Surfing enthusiasts are at 13th Beach and Raffs Beach in Barwon Heads. Barwon Heads is known for its spectacular sights, with the Bluff Lookout offering stunning views of the area.
Ocean Grove is a great place to take lessons if you’re new to surfing. The main beach there is ideal for families, with calm waves and clean sand. For those interested in paddleboarding, the Barwon River in Barwon Heads is a good spot to try. The shallow waters make it a great place for beginners to learn.
For a more relaxed beach experience, families can visit the rock pools at Point Lonsdale in Portarlington. Additionally, they can explore the entrance to Port Phillip Bay at the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse and discover the area’s historical significance.
For those unsure of activities in Melbourne, the Bellarine Peninsula provides a comprehensive option worth considering as a top destination from the city.
Plan your Bellarine holiday with the Melbourne Wine Tour for a stress-free, all-inclusive experience. Let the experts guide you on your next-day trip from Melbourne!
