Flinders, VIC 3929

Much of peninsula boast the coast-country lifestyle; however, Flinders is one of the few towns that really pulls it off. Different in culture to its neighbours on the western side; Sorrento and Portsea, Flinders enjoys a stillness; a place where you can live peacefully all year round, in summer soak in the warmer atmosphere; and locals will tell you, winter is just as endearing. The ambience of an open fire, the freshness of Westernport bay, the bare branches of deciduous tree lined streets and driveways creates a non-pretentious familiarity. Weekend community footy with a few beers and a stroll home, local winter produce on the menu and the ruggedness of the open surf. In town you stop for a casual chat and dogs on leads say a respectful hello.

Located on the south western edge of the Mornington Peninsula, Flinders marks the point where Western Port Bay meets Bass Strait.

The town gets its name from the famous explorer Matthew Flinders, who visited the place briefly in 1802. Small and tranquil, Flinders is ideal for retirees and those looking to escape the city rush.

The Flinders Golf Club is one of the most picturesque in the state, located on a clifftop overlooking the Bass Strait. The town also has a small yacht club and a long pier, where locals partake in fishing and sailing.

At the Flinders Hotel, visitors salivate over the many delectable culinary delights on offer. Others like to spend the day browsing the antique stores on Cook Street or looking through the Flinders Fine Art Gallery.

There are two options for swimming: Western Port Bay, with its calm waters and family-friendly conditions, or the southern side of West Head, the ocean breaks over the basalt rocks of Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary at Flinders ocean beach.

Mushroom Reef hosts one of Victoria's best intertidal and subtidal rock platform reefs, popular for beachcombing, recreational diving, snorkelling and surfing.

Those who enjoy walking will find that the 100km Mornington Peninsula Walk sets off in the area, while the shorter Two Bays and Coastal walking tracks weave through native bushland and sleepy inlets.

Flinders is the most underrated premium positions on the Mornington Peninsula. The suburb is home to many beach side mansions on large estates. The golf course, yacht club are key attractions along with the stunning bay. The shopping strip is also more peaceful than other areas.