Thinking of heading down to the Mornington Peninsula for the long weekend but not sure where to wine, dine, and soak up the sunshine? Alex gives us her locals guide to a weekend on the “Ninch”.
FRIDAY
Many Little
Welcome! Ease on in with dinner at Many Little in Red Hill, the casual bistro in the ever-growing Polperro empire. Try the fish tacos – you can thank us later.
SATURDAY
Start the morning off right with a yoga sesh. Our favourite is Hot Hut yoga studio – a wee little spot that will get you to slow down, and, if you’re anything like me, have a quick power nap in savasana. Book ahead as there are only a handful mats.
The perfect post-yogi breakfast spot. Grab an exceptional chai and panini and kick back with the locals on the veranda. Stock up on any essentials you’ve forgotten at the attached boutique grocer.
After breakfast, get a teeny tiny bit physical, picking your own fresh strawberries. The kids will love it and a little sampling of the produce as you go is totally delicious.
If you’re lucky, snag a spot at the brand spanking new Tedesca. Started by the good folk from Enoteca on Gertrude St in Melbourne, expect incredible local goodies, cooked in front of your watering mouth by the magical Brigitte. Settle in, the pace is leisurely - you won’t be rolling out of here until late afternoon.
Dromana drive-in
Go for a wander along the beach at Dromana (insta snap yourself in front of the old bathing boxes). After the sun sets, hit up the old-style drive in complete with retro diner. Food maybe not the healthiest, but the space sure looks cool! Perhaps pack your own picnic, kick back under the stars and watch the latest releases or an old favorite.
SUNDAY
Fantastic new bakery in Dromana! If you enjoy the occasional carbohydrate, you’ll be in heaven.
Burn off the carbs at my fave little walk, about 3km each way, leading to a glorious beach with amazing rock pools and there are abalones to be found if you know where to look (stick to the bag limit). Do yourself a favour!
Leave the heels and fascinator at home, this a classic country race meet! Have a flutter with the bookies, grab potato twist (had my first one last weekend and it was deeelicious), then head trackside to see your pony come home with the win.
Take things back up a notch for dinner at the newish (giant) kid on the block with a fantastic sculpture garden overlooking the water. Jaw drop. Here you can relax and count your winnings from the races. Great spot for a drink at the bar, casual food at the bistro or fine dining at Laura.
MONDAY
Recently renovated and ready for its comeback! Personal fave. After breakfast, go for a quick dip in the ocean at Somers and you’ll feel a million bucks.
Awesome colourful homewares in Balnarring, and a great spot to pick up a little Kip&Co! Legends.
For lunch, head to the old stables converted into a brewery. Excellent spot for a cold beer and some pub grub.
Getting bigger and better every year! There is a spa for massages for some serious rest and relaxation, the perfect spot to start the wind down for your weekend before you head home.
SO MUCH MORE
There’s so much amazing stuff to do down on the Peninsula that didn’t make the list! Here’s a few more to save for next time.
Breakfast and coffee
Wineries, breweries, gin distilleries and good old fashioned pubs
Willow Creek/Rare Hare/Doot Doot Doot
Bass & Flinders Gin Distillery
Hotel Sorrento (aka the Sorrento Pub)
More places to snack/eat
Shopping
Tyabb Vintage Shed and Packing House
To do
Heronswood
Balnarring Beach
Point Leo Beach
Cape Schanck Lighthouse
Enchanted Adventure Playground
