Seeing things from a new perspective often helps us appreciate what we have. What better way to change your perspective than with a view from some of Mornington Peninsula’s most desirable lighthouses and lookouts. Read on for a selection of great views you experience when you explore the Mornington Peninsula’s lighthouses and lookouts
Lookouts
A short stroll from the Arthurs Seat summit, discover Seawinds Gardens. The garden’s lookouts offer spectacular views of Port Phillip and the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas. Many locals believe the views are some of the best around. Nature has inspired the beautifully crafted playground located in the gardens, with standout features like wildlife shaped art, classic play equipment and soft rubber grounds for little explorers. Sculptures by William Ricketts, or for those lucky enough, a sighting of a dusk grazing kangaroos reward the keen eye.
Reached by road or on foot, rising above Mornington Peninsula, Arthurs Seat gives spectacular views of the bay and Port Phillip Heads from the numerous lookouts located along its winding road (Franklins Lookout, Murrays Lookout, Arthurs Seat Lookout). On a clear day, the view extends as far as the city skyline, the You Yangs and Mount Macedon. You can enjoy the leisurely Arthurs Seat Circuit Walk, which includes the Matthew Flinders Cairn, Seawinds Gardens, William Ricketts sculptures, the Seawinds Nursery Volunteers Indigenous Garden and all major lookouts. This walk can be done in either direction or as part of the longer 26km Two Bays Trail.
From the cliffs located on the south end of Mount Martha beach, appreciate the spectacular views of some of the most beautiful bathing boxes on the Mornington Peninsula. Take in the 2km of golden sand and turquoise waters. Mount Martha Life Saving Club and the yacht club are located at the northern end of the southern beach.
Point Nepean is truly one of Victoria's beautiful natural landscapes. A special place with so much to see and discover, the park is located at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula. With outstanding coastal scenery, enjoy the many lookouts as you explore the military forts and tunnels, offering panoramic views of Bass Strait, the Rip and Port Phillip ..
Lighthouses
McCrae Lighthouse
McCrae Lighthouse was built in England 1874 and transported to Australia by sea to be erected on site in 1883. The structure is listed on Victoria’s Historic Building register as one of two such types remaining in Australia. Standing at 33.5 metres, it is the tallest lighthouse in the bays of Port Phillip. Locals recognised the significance of the structure and decided to ‘dress’ the landmark with coloured light to commemorate important dates for the community and the spirit of changing special occasions.
The Cape Schanck Lighthouse has served shipping since 1859. It was built from dressed limestone and sandstone and is significant because the original mechanisms are still in place. From this historic site, see some of the best coastal scenery when you follow the Bushrangers Bay Nature Walk. Take a guided tour of the lighthouse and observe marine life in the surrounding rock pools.
With so many panoramic landscapes to take in, there will be no shortage of inspiration when you visit. Take a day, or even longer to explore the new perspectives offered by the Mornington Peninsula.
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