The 5 most relaxing things to do on the Mornington Peninsula

You don’t need to look far for tranquillity, calm and relaxation in Victoria. Only 70kms from the Melbourne CBD in fact. The Mornington Peninsula is fast becoming the ideal location to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Being beachside is really only the beginning of what makes the Peninsula so great. With one of the greatest food and wine cultures growing steadily within the region, as well as becoming a destination for discovering the great outdoors and finding wellbeing. It’s any wonder city dwellers are flocking to the Mornington Peninsula to indulge in a little well-deserved time out.

So, if you’re looking for a little ‘me time’ this weekend, here’s our list of the most relaxing things to do on the Mornington Peninsula.

Beach day

Seems like a pretty obvious drawcard to this region, but we can never underestimate the happiness that comes from something as simple as sitting on the sand, soaking up some rays and tucking into some fish ‘n’ chips! Even in the cooler months, this amazing coastline from Mount Eliza, right around to Hastings, offers some of the best beaches in all of Victoria. With its inviting beachside towns, cool cafès and trendy boutiques, the Mornington Peninsula really does have something that’ll please everyone.

Winery picnic

Kerri Greens

A cellar door, but not as you know it. Tapping into a new generation of wine drinkers, Kerri Greens is a casual, no fuss winery that likes to do things a little differently. Taste amazing Peninsula wines made with minimal intervention, while relaxing outside on a picnic blanket admiring the vines and surrounds. It’s a pretty young vibe here, but some of the nicest wines you’ll taste in the region.

Montalto Picnics

Imagine your own secluded picnic lunch, hidden away from the crowds in a private setting on the grounds of Montalto Estate. You don’t need to bring a thing, just your appetite. A shared lunch of seasonal local produce and wine is served on crisp white linen in a gorgeous outdoor setting. This is definitely not your typical picnic. Great for that special occasion or an intimate gathering of friends.

Casual winery lunch

Tucks Ridge

This place has had a new lease on life with a recent revamp, making it one of the best spots in the area to sit back and relax, with arguably the best vineyard views anywhere on the Peninsula. After you’ve sipped on their amazing and extensive range of wines, take a seat in the outdoor dining area and choose from their mouth-watering rotisserie menu and delicious salads and sides. There’s even a comfy adult sized swing hanging from one of the trees so you can swing and sway your worries away.

Merricks Creek

With a dining area set amongst the vines, you can embrace everything that’s great about the Mornington Peninsula in the one place. Fanatical about sharing their amazing wines with guests, enjoy a shared lunch of mouth-watering plates that are uniquely designed to accompany their wines. From raclette to braised lamb shoulder, lunch at Merricks Creek is sure to be a gastronomic delight.

Montalto Piazza

Casual and relaxed dining at its best. Grab a seat in the kitchen gardens or in the sheltered piazza where you can enjoy views of the vines and sculpture trail from your table. This place really has a laid-back Mediterranean vibe about it, the perfect spot on a Sunday afternoon when you don’t want to rush. The menu is designed to share, taking advantage of the best local produce. Stop into the cellar door for a wine tasting and try their very own olive oil from their grove.

Hot springs soak

Peninsula Hot Springs

Bathing is a ritual that has long relaxed the body and mind for generations all over the world. This state of the art facility has brought the benefits of this time-honoured experience to the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. Whether you’re looking for a detox, or simply rejuvenate after a busy work week, the natural geothermal waters of the hot springs are sure to alleviate the pressures of everyday life in few short minutes.

Image: UniLodge

A day on the green

With over 18 world class courses set amongst coastal and countryside landscapes, the Mornington Peninsula is a golfer’s paradise. The sheer number of courses with differing terrains means there’s something to challenge every level of player, from beginner to advanced. Not to mention stunning views from every hole. It’s a perfectly fun way to unwind with a group of friends outdoors.

We hope these lovely destinations inspire you to take a drive and chill out on the Mornington Peninsula this weekend.

To discover more of what’s great in the Mornington Peninsula, book a private and tailored tour with Wine Compass or check out some of our favourite wineries here. For more things to do take a look at our favourite day trips from Melbourne.

Author bio:

Lucia Guadagnuolo is a tour host and blogger for Wine Compass. When she’s not travelling or indulging in the fried delights of Southern Italian cooking, Lucia enjoys discovering the ever-changing food and wine scene in Melbourne. She’s also recently completed the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines.