With its misty mornings and mild nights, autumn is an enchanting time to visit the Mornington Peninsula. If you plan to immerse yourself in the healing waters at Peninsula Hot Springs this upcoming Labour Day long weekend, we’ve rounded up some of the best activities to explore while you’re in the area. 

Meanwhile, we’ll be running our wellness program featuring Mat Yoga, Hot Springs Yoga, our Fire & Ice Workshop and our Body Clay Ritual. You can also enjoy the acoustic sounds of singer-songwriter Miguel Ríos with a special guest from 12pm on Sunday, 8 March as part of our regular Sunday Sessions.

As you journey to the Mornington Peninsula, we've rounded up 10 ways to elevate your escape, with each activity a complementary addition to your hot springs bathing experience.

1. Wander the Point Nepean market

Venture down to the southernmost tip of the Peninsula for enticing food options, locally made wares, plants and more at this once-in-a-while market. While you’re there, you could explore Quarantine Station and walk out to Fort Nepean, taking in stunning views of both the wild ocean and the pristine bay along the way.

Taking place on Saturday 7 March from 9am. Point Nepean Quarantine Station, Coleman Rd, Portsea.

2. Bathe beneath the stars

Make the most of your time away from routine with a twilight bathe in our Bath House or adults-only Spa Dreaming Centre. Experience Twilight Revitalise Bathing every day from 6pm, or bathe into the night with our special Moonlit Bathing experience in our Spa Dreaming Centre, available Friday and Saturday nights 10pm until 2am. 

Our Moonlit bathing experience is available for guests 18 years and over.

3. Take a tractor tour of Hawkes Farm during their next open day

A stone’s throw from Peninsula Hot Springs is our local farmgate, Hawkes Farm, which has evolved over the years to offer a variety of culinary delights – including their famous thrice-cooked fries. On Saturday 7 March, Hawkes Farm will host a Farm Open Day with Ride 'n Pick tractor tours, live music and delicious farm-to-table foods. During a 45-minute guided tour, chat to Farmer Richard and discover everything it takes to grow some of the best of Mornington Peninsula's produce.

Taking place on Saturday, 7 March, with four sessions to choose from. Hawkes Farm is located at 661 Boneo Road, Boneo.

4. Sip and Sketch at Point Leo Estate

When Point Leo Estate opened in 2017, it caused a sensation. The property is home not only to a restaurant and winery but also to a sculpture park featuring esteemed artists and bay views. This Labour Day weekend, you can choose from charcoal, oil pastels or watercolour, select your preferred wine and sit down at your easel for a 90-minute sketch session.

Available Saturday 7, Sunday 8 and Monday 9 March with sessions at 11:30am. 3649 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks.

5. Discover the charming Mornington Racecourse Craft Market

A regular meeting place for locals and visitors to the region, the Mornington Racecourse Craft Market is a much-loved makers' haven. Expect to find handmade arts and crafts from local artists and creators, while indulging in delicious takeaway food from some of the best street food vendors.

Taking place on Sunday 8 March. 320 Racecourse Road, Mornington.

6. Indulge in seasonal dining while in the comfort of a plush robe

Truly elevate your long weekend escape with our Dine and Bathe package, and indulge in an experience that combines restorative hot springs bathing with seasonal dining. Featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal, wholesome dishes, our Spa Dreaming Centre dining room offers a unique setting to enjoy meals and light refreshments before or after bathing. The best part? Dine in your robe for a moment of ultimate comfort.

Our Dine and Bathe package is available for guests aged 16 years and over.

7. Immerse in nature as you wander the Merricks Red Hill Rail Trail

A scenic route that is fast becoming a popular track for both locals and visitors, the old railway line between Merricks and Red Hill used to carry fresh apples to Hastings where they were sent to the markets of Melbourne. While the trains no longer run through, you can walk the 13-kilometre trail for yourself while enjoying views over Western Port, and before enjoying a coffee at Merricks General Store or Epicurean, depending on where you begin your journey. 

Located at 13 Merricks Road, Merricks. 

8. Explore Boneo Discovery Park

This family-friendly park is situated on 27 acres of wetlands, five minutes from Peninsula Hot Springs, and includes a ropes course, zip line, rock wall, maze, sand sculptures, mini golf, and nature activities. Between a visit to the Peninsula Hot Springs and a wander around this discovery park, you and the family will be deeply immersed in Fingal’s natural environment.

Boneo Discovery Park is located at 695 Limestone Road, Fingal.

9. Embrace adventure at Enchanted Adventure Garden 

Perfect for families seeking fun and connection, the Enchanted Adventure Garden at Arthur's Seat offers complex mazes and tree-top climbing for both the young and the young at heart. Our Family Maze & Bathe package allows you to explore the many wonderful experiences at Enchanted Adventure Garden, before unwinding in our hot springs to end a perfect, adventure-filled day. 

Enchanted Adventure Garden is located at 55 Purves Road, Arthurs Seat.

10. Have a picnic at Green Olive Winery

Green Olive is a great winery to visit – especially if you have kids in tow, who might appreciate the trampoline. You can pre-order picnics for two adults, a family or four, or a group and enjoy delicious local produce in the serene grounds of the winery.

Green Olive Winery is located at 1180 Mornington-Flinders Road, Main Ridge.