A 3-day Itinerary For A Perfect Girls Trip in Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula is the perfect destination for a girls’ getaway, offering a delightful blend of beaches, wineries, spas, and local culinary gems. Iff you’re wondering what are the best things to do in Mornington Peninsula, here’s a tailored 3-day itinerary to ensure you and your friends have a fantastic, rejuvenating experience.

Day 1: Arrive and Indulge in Local Delights 

Morning: Hit the Vineyards for Wine Tasting

Start your day at one of Mornington Peninsula’s famous vineyards. Make your way to Montalto or Pt. Leo Estate, where you can savour world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in picturesque settings. Many vineyards here come with scenic restaurants, so grab lunch on the terrace and soak in the views. Remember, it’s not just about the wine – the food here is incredible too!

Afternoon: Explore the Art at Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park

After lunch, wander around Pt. Leo Estate’s Sculpture Park. With sculptures dotted across the landscape, it’s like a mini outdoor art museum with views of the ocean. It’s the perfect blend of art and nature and makes for a fun, casual stroll with plenty of photo ops!

Evening: Sunset Drinks at St Andrews Beach Brewery

Head over to St Andrews Beach Brewery for some relaxed sunset drinks. Set in a converted stable with wide-open spaces, this spot serves up delicious craft beers brewed on-site. It’s a chill vibe, ideal for chatting with the girls and soaking up the evening sun.

Want to go on a wine tour? Consider this full-day plan instead

Morning

• Pick-Up by Vinetrekker: Start your day by being picked up at your hotel or a convenient central location in Melbourne by Vinetrekker Wine Tours. The full-day tour will take you across some of the best vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula.
• Yabby Lake Vineyard Tasting: Begin your journey at Yabby Lake Vineyard, one of the region’s top producers of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. Enjoy a guided tasting, exploring the vineyard’s history and the nuances of its wines.

Late Morning

• Crittenden Estate Vineyard Tasting: Your next stop is Crittenden Estate, known for its Italian and Iberian grape varieties. Established in 1984, this family-owned winery offers a wide range of unique wines, from cool-climate classics to lesser-known European varieties.

Lunch

• Lunch at Merricks General Store: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the iconic Merricks General Store, a heritage building turned bistro, art gallery, and wine cellar. Savour a main course from the à la carte menu paired with a glass of local wine, followed by tea or coffee.

Afternoon

• Quealy Vineyard Tasting: After lunch, head to Quealy Vineyard, known for its quirky take on Italian winemaking styles. Sample their unique blends and enjoy the intimate, welcoming atmosphere of this Balnarring-based vineyard.
• Ten Minutes by Tractor or Stonier Wines: Depending on your group’s preference, you’ll wrap up the day with a visit to either Ten Minutes by Tractor or Stonier Wines. Both offer exceptional wines and breathtaking views of the Mornington Peninsula vineyards.

Note: The full-day Mornington Peninsula wine tour by Vinetrekker includes transportation, all tastings, lunch, and a guide with local knowledge. It’s a perfect day for wine lovers and a great way to explore the Mornington Peninsula’s wine region without any hassle.

Day 2: Pamper and Relax at the Hot Springs

Morning: Soak in the Hot Springs at Peninsula Hot Springs

No girls’ trip is complete without a spa day, and Mornington Peninsula’s Peninsula Hot Springs are a dream! Spend the morning hopping between thermal pools, trying the hilltop pool with sweeping views, or opting for a massage or facial. It’s pure bliss and a perfect way to rejuvenate.

Afternoon: Brunch at The Cups Estate Café

Just a short drive from the hot springs is The Cups Estate, a cosy café with a rustic charm. Enjoy a relaxed brunch with fresh, local ingredients paired with a wine tasting, or just sip on their estate-grown olive oils – yes, it’s that kind of place. Everything here is crafted with love and ideal for a laid-back afternoon.

Evening: Dinner at Rare Hare

Round out the day at Rare Hare, a rustic-chic eatery with views over the Willow Creek Vineyard. Their seasonal, share-plate menu is perfect for trying a bit of everything, and the relaxed vibe makes it a fantastic spot to unwind and recount the day with your crew.

Day 3: Beach, Boutiques, and Coastal Views 🏖️

Morning: Mornington Beach for a Sunrise Walk

Take an early morning walk along Mornington Beach and enjoy the iconic colourful bathing boxes. It’s a quiet, serene start to the day and one of those magical “only in Australia” experiences.

Late Morning: Shopping and Café Hopping in Mornington Town

Wander around Mornington’s quaint town centre, brimming with boutique stores, cafes, and galleries. Treat yourself to some local handmade jewellery, art, or skincare goodies. Make sure to pop into Commonfolk Coffee for your caffeine fix – they roast their beans in-house, and the vibe is effortlessly cool.

Afternoon: Explore Cape Schanck and the Lighthouse

Wrap up the trip with a scenic drive to Cape Schanck. The lighthouse and dramatic coastal views are breathtaking, and a short hike here is the perfect way to stretch your legs before heading home. The rugged coastline and powerful waves make for some epic photos to remember your trip by.

Evening: Dinner at Alatonero

Conclude your trip with a fun and lively farewell dinner at Alatonero, a Greek restaurant offering mezze plates and delicious Mediterranean dishes. Share plates of calamari, lamb souvlaki, and house-made dips while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere with your friends.

Where to Stay

• Jackalope Hotel: For a luxurious and design-forward stay, offering top amenities and its own vineyard.
• Lindenderry at Red Hill: A peaceful countryside retreat with beautiful gardens and vineyard views.
• Flinders Hotel: A modern, boutique option located close to beaches and wineries.

Trip Tips

• Booking: Make sure to pre-book your spa appointments, wine tours, and restaurant reservations, especially during peak seasons.
• Packing: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring beaches and vineyards, a cute outfit for wine tasting, and beach essentials like sunscreen and a hat.

This 3-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation, beach time, and indulgence, with an entire day dedicated to exploring the Mornington Peninsula’s world-class wine region with Vinetrekker. It’s a trip designed to create lasting memories with your closest friends!