So a little birdie told us the school holidays are underway! On the Mornington Peninsula, we embrace the chill in the air as there are plenty of things to do in the great outdoors. In fact, we think embracing the great outdoors this season is actually one of the best adventures to take! Zip up your woollen coat, secure your beanie and let's explore more of this unbeatable winter wonderland; you and the family are sure to be spellbound from the get-go.
Gardens and Adventure Sites
Looking for experiences that channel all-in family fun? You’ll be hard-pressed to go past the region’s extensive collection of gardens and adventure sites. The teams behind these top attractions know a thing or two about making the most of the outdoors, with each site offering unique activities, tours and of course, glorious flora and fauna. And don’t worry, we know what you’re thinking - wintertime is still a superb time of year to explore more of these destinations. You probably won’t even notice the cold!
If journeying around the region's hinterland, we suggest paying a visit to Enchanted Adventure: the Home of Tree Surfing in Arthurs Seat or Boneo Discovery Park in Fingal. Both offer standout family-friendly fun, from giant mazes to games and more.
Additionally, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne delights with its Australiana-inspired landscapes and precincts. While native plants are in abundance (over 170,000 to be counted!), memorable experiences are endless. Finally, Cruden Farm in Langwarrin is a must-visit for their monthly garden tours and overflow of greenery.
Discover the full list of the Mornington Peninsula’s leading outdoor gardens and adventure sites here.
Walks
We don't know about you, but we think walking is one of the best ways to explore more of the Mornington Peninsula. And yep, you guessed it! A walk around the Mornington Peninsula sure is unbeatable if wanting to capture the best sights and uncover top scenery outlooks. There's still so much beauty to witness between the beaches and rolling country hills. The fresh (and often powerful) winter coastal breezes will cleanse the mind, and ignite spirit in the soul.
Recommendations from us? The Millionaire’s Walk in Portsea offers stunning seaside vistas neighboured by some spectacular properties. It's only a short 1km path which will take approximately one hour to complete.
Further inland, The Briars in Mount Martha presents a variety of walking trails, weaving through thriving bushland, woodlands and wetlands. For photo opportunities on these adventures, think vibrant green backdrops and cosy family snaps. Each path has a low difficulty rating and takes between 1-2 hours to complete.
Finally, it’s at the Cape Schanck Lighthouse Reserve, where a boardwalk meander leads you through a rugged coastal landscape and to sweeping ocean views. Basalt cliffs, rock pools and potential marine life sightings represent just a few of the temptations.
There are so many walks you can take this wintertime, explore the complete selection here.
Bike Tracks
If you prefer to explore on two wheels instead of on foot, the Mornington Peninsula caters to this preference. Bike tracks are just as accessible throughout the region, and each promotes stunning vistas of the coast, country and beyond.
Where to begin? The Whitecliffs Bay Trail is a 5km ride alongside picturesque Port Phillip beaches between Rye and Blairgowrie. The flat terrain is ideal for family rides, and there are plenty of stopover shopping and dining opportunities to break up the cycling pursuit. Prepare to glimpse captivating weather transformations out to sea as you breathe in the crisp, cool and completely rejuvenating wintery air.
The Point Nepean National Park inspires with its scenery and historical significance. Pedal your way through the idyllic surroundings, with overwhelming beauty to be discovered at every turn of the corner. This might just be our favourite journey to take, but we’re still undecided!
Find your next favourite bike track on the Mornington Peninsula here.
