With remarkable coastal shores, rolling hills and expansive vineyards, the Mornington Peninsula is often thought of as a dreamy amalgamation of Australia and Europe. The beaches along the peninsula are well documented as some of Victoria’s best, but as anyone who has visited the region will know, there is a wealth of lesser-explored paths, wineries and activities just waiting to be discovered. Enjoy it all with a glass of pinot noir in hand and you might just scratch the surface of what this unmissable destination has to offer.

THE WINE OF IT ALL

The Mornington Peninsula is renowned for its wine varieties; namely pinot noir, pinot gris and chardonnay. The region is uniquely positioned between Port Phillip Bay, Western Port, and the open waters of Bass Strait. These three surrounding bodies of water facilitate the ideal conditions to produce the elegant, texturally fine wines that we enjoy today. “The many soil types, altitudes and aspects contribute equally diverse expressions in the bottle,” Olivia notes. As one of Australia’s true maritime climates, the Mornington Peninsula offers cool, crisp breezes that deliver a long growing season – prefect for nurturing pinot noir grapes. Although referred to as the ‘heartbreak grape’ for its fickle nature, pinot noir thrives in the region and has become its signature variety. “The Mornington Peninsula is recognised globally as one of the epicentres of exceptional pinot noir,” Olivia echoes.

Today, Geelong is home to some of the state’s most highly rated wineries; Terindah Estate recently won Best Pinot Noir at the 2019 Victorian Wine Show. “Geelong’s wine industry is steadily regaining its early reputation as a premium wine region,” Tromp says. Tromp explains that the diversity in the soil between separate sub-regions within Geelong such as Bellarine, Moorabool Valley and the Surf Coast, as well as the region itself, gives Geelong the ability to craft some of Victoria’s most sought after wines; “Geelong tends to be able to produce slightly fuller-bodied reds than some of its neighbours, particularly pinot noir,” Tromp says. “For those that appreciate a broader-chested red, but won’t give up any flair or finesse, Geelong certainly delivers.” The weather also provides the perfect conditions for local produce and delectable wines to flourish. The region receives far less rainfall than the Yarra Valley or the Mornington Peninsula, and its locale allows for more hours of sunlight, catering to those looking for an action-packed day out, or a relaxing weekend away. “Not only does [the weather] help in ripening our fruit, it also means that there’s more beautiful days to enjoy,” Tromp says.

Geelong’s unique climate conditions means that the area remains active year-round. “If you’d like plenty of time to discuss wine and all the local secrets at the cellar door, head down in the cooler months and settle into a warm conversation with one of the local pros,” Tromp suggests. If you’re looking to visit in the warmer months, Tromp recommends visiting in March as it is the best time to explore Geelong with perfect temperatures, minimal wind and plenty of sun for locals and tourists alike.

SPOILT FOR CHOICE

Now that you have sufficiently eaten and drank your way through the Mornington Peninsula, it’s time for some sight-seeing! The beauty of the Mornington Peninsula is that there is a wealth of activities and experiences to be had throughout the entire year – winter included. Enjoy a swim at one of the peninsula’s many beaches, though Olivia continues to return to Point Leo Surf Beach; one of the rare spots along the coastline where surfers can catch a few waves on windy, wintery days. Melburnians flock to the vibrant Sorrento in summer for the beautiful stretches of beach, great food and shopping scene. Avoid the December and January crowds, and visit in February after the new school year has started.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the coast has you covered! “Simply follow the track from Red Hill to Merricks General Store, it’s a six-kilometre walk along the old apple-train rail track – have a coffee at the end, then turn around and come back,” Olivia recommends. If you need a little more incentive for a hike, then meander along the Flinders Blowhole Walking Track for a brisk two-kilometre walk and a breathtaking view of the rocky Bass Strait coastline. Or, if you’re up for it, take the Mornington Peninsula 100km Walk that links the region’s four established hiking tracks.

As any wine enthusiast will tell you, wine is a drink for all seasons. And in this regard, the Mornington Peninsula delivers in spades. The annual Peninsula Piers & Pinots held in March, showcases a range of pinot noirs, tasty food and live music against the backdrop of the sea. Witness the beauty of the Mornington Peninsula in autumn with the Winery Walk – a tour through the region’s extraordinary vineyards with a few tastings along the way.