Curator’s statement
The Bellarine Peninsula has it all—stunning windswept beaches, calm protected bays, and world-class wineries perched atop gentle rolling hills. Every small town on the Bellarine Peninsula has its own quaint character with never-ending hidden culinary gems. This region can be extremely quiet during the winter months (June–August) however populations swell dramatically during the peak of summer (January) as holiday makers embark on their annual coastal pilgrimage.
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Day 1: Exploring Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff
Upon rising, take a short drive up to the popular Point Lonsdale Lighthouse. From here you can enjoy some stunning views of the open ocean, and may see some ships passing by. You can head down to the beach for some rockpool rambling, or walk into town for a scrumptious breakfast at Early Nancy. After breakfast, take the ten-minute drive to the Victorian-era township of Queenscliff. Quenscliff has a number of historical sites including Fort Queenscliff, and there are two small art galleries on the main street. The recently refurbished and iconic, The Royal Queenscliff, is a must for your evening plans.
Day 2: Exploring Barwon Heads
Take a 20-minute drive to the township of Barwon Heads. Here you will find a mix of salty bare-footed surfers and ladies wandering between Pilates classes and freshly brewed lattes.
Start your day by driving up to the Barwon Heads Bluff, where you will be greeted with picturesque views of the beach below and the bridge that stretches across the mouth of the river. You can either walk down to the beach below and explore some rockpools, or walk along the track that continues to run along the cliffside. After working up an appetite, you can head to the main street for lunch. Annie’s Provedore not only serves up divine food, but it also has an amazing selection of cured meats, cheeses, preserves etc. for purchase. Take a stroll up the main street, it’s not very long but has some beautiful coastal-luxe homewares shops. In the evening, you can dine At The Heads, which sits out at the end of the pier, offering spectacular ocean views.
Day 3: Exploring the wineries
Today, you will head out to explore a couple of wineries. In recent years, the Bellarine Peninsula has built up a reputation for delivering top-class wines in unique and visually delightful locations.
I would recommend visiting Bellarine Estate and Jack Rabbit Vineyard, which are within a few minutes drive of each other. There are also tours that you can organize if you don’t wish to take your own vehicle, or are just looking for some more expert guidance.
Need to know
The Bellarine Peninsula is a great place for those that love their watersports. Surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and even swimming with dolphin charters.
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Hayley Quinn
Hayley Quinn
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