When you need some time out from the daily grind, line up a getaway that promises loads of luxury and everyday bliss on the picturesque coasts of the Mornington Peninsula. Verdant nature, gourmet feasts, boutique vineyards and natural thermal springs are just some of the ways to restore yourself from an array of opulent through to easy options. When downtime comes around, treat the Peninsula as your destination for rejuvenation. Take a long weekend, a romantic retreat, or days away with friends midweek. Whether your preference is for leisure, luxuriating or loafing around, the ultimate holiday de-stress begins just an hour south from the bustling heart of Melbourne.

The Mornington Peninsula is a beautiful destination, where you can effortlessly reconnect with life’s simplest pleasures. A place where all the elements conspire to create a nature haven. So why not look to earth, water and air for some inspiration.

The Peninsula is a perfect spot to get back in touch with your earthy nature. There are plenty of great walks to provide essential grounding to help recharge your batteries and awaken sluggish energy. For amblers to day hikers, the Mornington Peninsula National Park offers a great range of tracks with gorgeous vistas – over craggy sea cliffs, calm beaches and tranquil woodlands – to keep everyone on their toes. Birdwatching around Flinders offers soothing sights and sounds. The nature playgrounds of the Peninsula come with healthy doses of clean, salt-tinged air. Why not tire yourself out with some gentle activity and guarantee a sleep more restful than you’ve had in ages. 

Water provides instant ease for the body. The Peninsula offers an environment where the sea reigns supreme. Swim in ocean-side beaches, or take a dip along sheltered shorelines or the calm coves of Port Phillip Bay. Otherwise, just plonk yourself on the sand, stroll, snorkel, surf, sail, make a sandcastle, or just allow yourself to be refreshed by the breeze and sunshine. Mornington Peninsula is an underwater wonderland for marine wildlife. Explore aquatic habitats such as sponge gardens, seagrass meadows, and rugged reefs. When you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, get on your wetsuit and swim with the dolphins, snorkel with fur seals, and be greeted by weedy seadragons in the Bay.

For renewal laced with indulgence, consider the geothermal oasis of the award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs. Soak outdoors in warm mineral pools, bathe by moonlight, unwind with a spa treatment, or experience the sanctuary of your own private pavilion. Dine, picnic, glamp for two, or just enjoy a pick-me-up at the Coffee Hut. 

Mornington Peninsula is awash with a range of dining experiences – from casual cafes and stylish bites to top-notch restaurants. Relax on a sunny deck with a wood-fired pizza and brew, or sink into gourmand mode in a chic dining room. 

Awaken your senses and taste for delight. Combine rest and extravagance with an exquisite treat for your taste buds at Jackalope Hotel. Here the experience of world-class accommodation is infused with premium wine tasting. Rise and shine in a vineyard setting, loll around your plush signature suite, gazing across the rows of grapes. Enjoy the scenic view from a deep-soak Japanese bath, before heading to your bottomless brunch – with mimosas, gourmet delicacies and spritzes on the menu – at Doot Doot Doot café. Surrender to more body treats at Jackalope’s in-house spa, browse the boutique, or watch a movie with all the popcorn you can eat. 

For more pared-back pleasure, enjoy a winery with an outdoor gallery at Pt Leo Estate. Wander the winding paths of the 135-hectare Sculpture Park, showcasing international artists and site-specific commissions, framed by peaceful landscaped gardens. For a wonderfully agreeable way to unwind midweek, try Pt Leo’s ‘Vine, Dine and Relax Experience’. Featuring a fully chauffeured visit, vineyard tour, one-hour bespoke tastings, followed by cheese and fruits at a private lake, before a delicious lunch prepared with regional produce at the restaurant.

Besides being famous for its wineries, Mornington Peninsula will also tempt you with craft breweries, spirit distilleries and cider makers galore. What’s more, fresh produce is readily available from farm gates, artisan producers, and farmers markets. Meander through the self-guided Mornington Peninsula Wine Food Farmgate Trail for rich discoveries. Pick out your own wines and foodie flavours, and picnic in the Peninsula’s great outdoors. From the Seawind Gardens to the Rye Foreshore, you’ll be spoilt for choice of venue. Unwind with a view from almost anywhere at Mornington Peninsula, and return from this stellar getaway feeling relaxed and wholly renewed.