Autumn is an incredible time to visit the Mornington Peninsula, and if you live here, then of course you already know much of our landscape shifts from greens into vibrant reds and is just calling to be explored. From our coasts to the vine-laden hinterlands here are some spots that should be top of your list this Autumn.
Two Bays Walking Track
The Two Bays Walking Track, spanning 26km, is a continuous trail situated on the Mornington Peninsula, showcasing an assortment of landscapes. Enthusiastic walkers can complete the entire route in a day, while those seeking a more leisurely pace can opt to traverse smaller sections.
The journey starts in McCrae on Point Nepean Road, with a steep ascent up a staircase to Latrobe Parade. Reach the Bunurong Track, and then walk enters the Arthurs Seat State Park, where the path navigates the hilly terrain until the Seawinds Gardens. The trail then heads past Kings Falls Track before exiting the State Park via Waterfall Gully Road. An incredible walk for a crisp day no matter what you’re up for, there’s a section of the track perfect for your day out.
Seawinds Gardens
At over 300 metres above the bay, this spectacular national park is home to grassy fields, walking circuits, a new playground and, if you get there early enough, an abundance of roos. It also boasts views over to the city skyline, the You Yangs and Mount Macedon – not to mention our beautiful bay beneath.
But the thing that makes this spot super special, especially in Autumn, are the trees! Watch them turn from bright green to vibrant oranges and reds in March to May and indulge in picnics, leaf-fights (think snow-ball fight) and crisp early morning walks.
Up this way you’ll also find the Arthurs Seat Eagle, the iconic aerial gondola, which will fly you over the national park and back..
Purves Rd, Arthurs Seat VIC 3936
Open 9am – 6pm
The Peninsula Picnic
Once a year, come Autumn, The Peninsula Picnic graces Mornington Racecourse with a celebration of the region’s top drops, produce, and talent. 2023 marks the seventh year in a row this crowd favourite brings top acts, food and wine to the Mornington Peninsula. You can expect Aussie music royalty, The Temper trap alongside Josh Pyke, Tia Gostelow, Queen of Hearts Mariachi Band and singer-songwriter, Tahls.
This is a family friendly event, so keep your eyes peeled for the Kids Corner, and nab free festival tickets for your under 5’s! Why does this event make for such good Autumn fun? The weather is mild, the company is good, and the produce from our local food and beverage vendors is at its peak post summer. Sounds pretty good to us.
www.peninsulapicnic.com.au
Ocean Eight Winery Cellar Door
Specialising in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris, Ocean Eight is one of the most spectacular spots to visit in Autumn. Arriving at the tree-lined driveway down to the cellar door feels like a scene from a movie; vibrant foliage and manicured grounds set the scene for the experience inside.
All Ocean Eight's wines are made in small batches, so you can taste the quality of the fruit. Ocean Eight’s 2020 Pinot Noir was recently awarded as one of the top 10 Australian wines by Decanter. That in itself makes this spot worth the visit.
11am–5pm Thurs – Sat, 11–3 Sunday.
271 Tucks Road, Shoreham
Red Hill Show
This family favourite has been running 95 years in a row! It features the Producers Paddock, with marquees selling local honey, produce, beer, cider, and wine while live judging of specialty items is held on stage; there are rides and entertainment, petting zoos, woodchopping and baking competitions judged by the CWA. It’s about as wholesome as a family day out gets, and runs every year at the Red Hill Recreation Reserve in Autumn.
Red Hill Recreation Reserve, Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill
https://www.redhillshow.com.au/
Point Nepean National Park
You’ll find Point Nepean National Park at the very end of the Mornington Peninsula, and boy is there a lot to enjoy. The Gunners Cottage to Fort Nepean Walk is one for the history buffs, with local war‑time landmarks and winding cliff‑side paths to take in the views. If you’re not up for the walk or ride, a shuttle bus runs throughout the day and can take you to the forts at the end of the road for a picnic and sightseeing. Further up toward portsea, there are the quarantine station and historical cottages that are now used as Artists’ Residences as part of a Shire run initiative.
Autumn is an excellent time to visit, to enjoy the coastal scenery and panoramic views of Bass Strait, the Rip and Port Phillip Bay without the summer heat.
Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm
Rocky Creek is a fourth generation property operated by the Gallace family. Strawberries were first planted by the Gallace family at the Rocky Creek farm in 1964, known back then as Sunny Ridge.
Now under a new name, the second, third and fourth generations of the Gallace family are excited to come back home to where it all began and return to their roots bringing you the freshest, tastiest strawberries you’ve ever eaten.
Indulge in the seasonal menu, Spoil yourself with their famous, freshly made ice-cream, and scrumptious strawberry desserts or Devonshire tea with freshly made scones, homemade jam and fresh, local cream – delicious! Alternatively, peruse local, gourmet delights to enjoy at home including: jams, freeze dried strawberries, chocolates, and other local produce.
244 Shands Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928
Have another spot you love to visit in Autumn? Let us know by tagging #theninch on Instagram.
