At just 90 minutes from central Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is counted as part of Metro Melbourne — but with its beaches, lush greenery, day spas and bath houses, the region feels a world away.
Those yearning for a wellness-focused escape will find it on the peninsula. Between busy summer moments, try these mindful ways to slow down, be present and connect with this beautiful part of Victoria.
Once a quarantine station, today Point Nepean is 560 hectares of national park with stunning views of both Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait. The park holds deep significance for the Boon Wurrung and Bunurong peoples as a historical site of women’s business, and is rich in ancient middens and artefacts. While there, you might be lucky enough to spy wallabies, echidnas and dolphins.
Choose from several walking tracks, ranging from short strolls to the full 16-kilometre return journey (or walk out and take the free shuttle bus back). You can also hire a bike or e-bike from the information centre, and see if the Smooth Electra coffee van is open for hot and cold drinks, toasties and other treats. The large lawn nearby is perfect for picnics with sea views.
Along the way, you’ll take in the stunning green vistas of the Mornington Peninsula’s hinterland and wine country.
Our grounds are a sprawling wellbeing landscape offering over 70 globally-inspired bathing rituals, from true geothermal springs to cold plunge pools, saunas and much more. Many of these experiences are located in our family-friendly Bath House, while those looking for a more tranquil immersion can retreat to the adults-only Spa Dreaming Centre.
As well as bathing, wellness activities, spa treatments and various dining options, we also offer Glamping and Eco Lodge accommodation for those looking to steep in wellness overnight.
If you’re seeking rejuvenation and nature immersion on the peninsula, Peninsula Hot Springs is the place to visit. Explore hot springs gifts.
There’s no better way to connect with a place than to embark on a cultural walk with a local Aboriginal guide. Gunditjmara Kirrae Wurrung–Bundjalung man Lionel Lauch and his team, with the blessings of the Boon Wurrung and Bunurong peoples, offer guided walks at culturally significant sites across the Mornington Peninsula — including Main Ridge, Number 16 Beach in Rye, Arthurs Seat, Bushrangers Bay, Balnarring Beach, McCrae Foreshore and Red Hill. The walks are of varying levels of difficulty, and some are wheelchair accessible.
During the guided walk, you’ll learn fascinating insights about bush tucker, bush medicine, wildlife and local history. If you’re lucky, you might get to experience a yidaki meditation from Lionel himself.
Newcomer Barragunda Dining, located in the depths of sleepy Cape Schanck, has been making waves with its exquisitely prepared farm-to-table menu from chef Simone Watts. Set on 1,000 acres of bushland, Barragunda practises regenerative agriculture, harvesting much of its produce on-site and collaborating with local growers and winemakers.
The restaurant itself is warm and intimate with a share-style set menu, and tables book out well in advance. Afterwards, take a stroll around the Cape Schanck lighthouse and the dramatic black-basalt cliffs and beach below.
Port Phillip Bay is ever-changing: some days silver and windswept, others calm and turquoise. The Bay Trail stretches from Safety Beach (starting at the Martha Cove underpass) to Sorrento, following a mix of coastal paths and Point Nepean Road.
You might like to stop along the way to admire the various beaches, or land in Sorrento for a walk along the jetty, a wander around the shops, or to enjoy refreshments at one of the town’s many iconic eateries.
The Mornington Peninsula is dotted with spectacular natural rock pools, which can present a safe alternative to swimming in the region’s wild ocean beaches. One of the most beloved is at Sorrento Back Beach — a pool with a small jumping rock that leaves you feeling deeply refreshed. Bring a snorkel to discover what lies beneath the surface.
At certain times of year, the All Smiles kiosk in the Sorrento Back Beach car park serves drinks and snacks. You can also climb the sandy steps near the Lifesaving Club to Coppins Lookout for breathtaking views over the ocean and bay.
There are many ways to explore our beautiful peninsula, find calm and reconnect with what matters this holiday season. For more information on visiting Peninsula Hot Springs and choosing Christmas gifts, get in touch with our Reservations team.