Australia \\'s oldest and most famous traditional Hedge Maze.
More than 4000 year round flowering lavender bushes planted in our lavender labyrinth & display gardens
25 acres of internationally acclaimed garden settings with over 10 garden displays with individual themes that change with every season of the year.
A Circular Rose Maze the first of its kind planted anywhere in the world! With over 1200 rose bushes of 200 fragrant varieties chosen for colour and perfume.
Enjoy the serenity of abundant water features and diverse birdlife, as you admire nature at its best.
Spacious licensed café with high vaulted ceilings & towering windows overlooking Maze & water gardens.
Elan Vineyard and Winery was established in 1985. The name Elan was inspired by their desire to produce premium wine made with flair from grape varieties both classic and unusual. They make estate grown, hand crafted, small quantities of special wines. Located on the Mornington Peninsula in Bittern, Elan Vineyard and Winery is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the views while sipping on beautiful wines. The Wines they specialise in are Riesling, Chardonnay,Gamay, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz. All at reasonable prices. There is a playground with a cubby over a sandpit and a slide. There is a grassed area for ball games. Gas barbecue facilities are on-site, picnic tables, rotunda overlooking the vineyard, coffee and tea making facilities. "2009 is the thirteenth vintage of Elan Vineyard's exceptionally good Gamay which is a light, dry and fruity red wine made using the primary grape variety of Beaujolais in France. The wine is quite unique, it is light-bodied but surprisingly earthy and is terrific slightly chilled at lunch." Stuart Gregor
The Mornington Peninsula Attraction Pass includes four of the Mornington Peninsula's best attractions. Each attraction is open every day except Christmas Day. Passes are valid for three months from date of purchase. Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens, admission plus self-guided tour and bonus fragrant lavender gift included. The Peninsula Hot Springs, early or late admission to bathing area in thermal pools. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Cape Schanck Lighthouse where you can have a personal guided tour of the Lighthouse and complimentary admission to the Lighthouse Museum. Daytime admission to Moonlit Sanctuary, between 11am and 5pm, plus a koala photo opportunity. The Mornington Peninsula is just over an hour's drive from Melbourne, ideal for a day trip from Melbourne or for an extended stay with many exquisite accommodation venues on offer. This picturesque peninsula of green rolling hills is often called 'Melbourne's Playground'. Surrounded by sea, it makes for a memorable stop on the acclaimed touring route between Phillip Island and The Great Ocean Road. More than $100 full retail included in every ticket plus special 10 per cent discount offer at Sunny Ridge Strawberry, Sorrento to Queenscliff Ferry and Box Stallion Winery.
The grand red-brick entrance of Willow Creek Vineyard denotes the vineyard that was planted in 1989. Predominantly pinot noir and chardonnay, it has been hand tended by the same viticulturist since the beginning. His partnership with renowned cool climate winemaker Geraldine McFaul results in some of the most elegantly crafted wines in the region. At the end of the meandering driveway is the original homestead, McCormick House. Built in 1876, it creates an historical context for the property and sits opposite the entrance to the stylish cellar door and restaurant. Designed by Carr Group, its ambient bluestone and oak interior is a calm, cool oasis in summer and warmed by a crackling fire in winter. And with a purpose built tasting room in the barrel hall, touring groups can discover the intricacies of winemaking in an intimate and dedicated setting. Beyond the cellar door is Salix, with its captivating vineyard view. The bright bistro has a sunny deck for summer dining, while the sophisticated restaurant is a cosy escape in all seasons. 'See how far the Mornington Peninsula wine scene has travelled from its origins as a 'hobby' winemaking region at Willow Creek. Beautifully manicured grounds and imposing old buildings set the scene for the superbly appointed, stylish Salix Restaurant, Bistro, and separate cellar door. An extended deck overlooks a picture-postcard scene of a beautiful, tree-enclosed valley, and carefully tended vineyards spread around. Ex-Stonier's winemaker Geraldine McFaul presides over a range of outstanding benchmark wines, all worthy of the estate's quality credentials.' Ralph Kyte-Powell.
Phillip Island Nature Park includes the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm. Phillip Island Nature Park is renowned as home to one of Australia's most popular wildlife attractions, the Penguin Parade. A mere 90 minutes drive from Melbourne, the Nature Park covers 2,750 hectares of Phillip Island - Victoria's wildlife haven. The Park is an island adventure featuring wildlife reserves, wetlands and breathtaking coastlines. The three main tourist attractions managed by Phillip Island Nature Park are the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island and the Koala Conservation Centre. Other destinations managed by the Park include Rhyll Inlet, Woolamai and the Nobbies, where visitors can experience wildlife in its natural environment. Phillip Island Nature Park is totally committed to providing outstanding tourism experiences and contributing to the ongoing conservation of Phillip Island's wildlife and its habitat-all funds from visitors go toward achieving this aim. Winner of Victorian Tourism Major Attractions Award 1998, 1999, 2000 There are many different tours to experience at the penguin parade! Penguins Plus viewing platform: Providing visitors with a more personal viewing experience, limited to 190 people, along with a commentary from an experienced ranger. VIP Tour: spectacular penguin viewing with your very own ranger, in a nelevated room, 180 degree view of the Penguin Parade. Enjoy a cheese platter as part of your VIP experience. Ultimate Adventure Tour: Limited to 10 people, this accredited eco tour provides extensive commentary, on a secluded beach to view the penguins with the latest night vision technology. Guided Ranger tour: Guided tour through the penguin colony before sitting in your reserved front row seats on the sand for the parade and then make your way to Penguins Plus to continue your guided experience.
Ocean Eight Vineyard & Winery is owned by the Aylward family who started producing wine on the Mornington Peninsula in 1997. The focus was top quality wine that suited the climate of the Mornington Peninsula, specialising in making Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and recently released a sparkling wine, inspired by the French Champagne. All Ocean Eight's wines are made in small quantities and batches to ensure high quality and a focused style of their Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and sparkling wine can be achieved. The winery is located on Tucks Road in Shoreham on the Mornington Peninsula. All grapes picked for this small production come from the 17 hectares of vineyard owned by the Aylward family. Ocean Eight Vineyard & Winery wines can be tasted and purchased from the cellar door. The cellar door is open four days a week from Thursday to Sunday. For further information please contact Ocean Eight Vineyard & Winery or view their website.
Red Hill Cheese established their small modern cheesery and cellar door on the farm at Red Hill in April 2000, making distinctive, handcrafted regional cheeses to complement Mornington Peninsula wines. They are now joined by a farmer and cheesemaker with their flock of milking sheep, producing wonderful ewe's milk at Moyarra in Gippsland's "Prom Country". An exciting new range of sheep cheese now adds to the flavour experience offered by Red Hill Cheese released under their Prom Country Cheese banner. Connect with the farm and know where your food comes from. A seasonal range of quality cheese is made using fresh ewe milk from their own farm, organic milk from cows at Fish Creek, and goat milk from Main Ridge Dairy. Red Hill Cheese's use vegetarian rennet, and are free from artificial stabilisers and preservatives. Low temperature pasteurising, slow processing and gentle handling help preserve the raw qualities of the clean rich milk, resulting in cheeses with character and great depth of flavour. Sheep milk products display unique qualities in texture, flavour and nutritional value, and are particularly attractive for those consumers who are intolerant to other milks. Cheese from ewe's milk has a smooth texture with back palate softness and delicate, complex flavours. Red Hill Cheese cellar door promises a high-end flavour experience for Serious Cheese lovers, with goat, cow, and sheep cheese. Treat yourself to a tasting plate of the Cheese maker's selection, to enjoy at your leisure on the deck overlooking the forest. Make an informed choice of cheese to purchase to complement Mornington Peninsula wines. No facilities for groups more than 10. Contact Red Hill Cheese for further details.
Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens is home to Australia's oldest and most famous hedge maze, a beautiful circular rose maze, and the year round flowering Lavender Labyrinth, all set among 25 acres of world acclaimed gardens. The traditional hedge Maze is planted with more than 1000 cypress trees and thousands of metres of pathways. Now more than three metres high and two metres thick, the Maze keeper clips the hedges three times a year to keep it sculpted into a curvaceous challenge that will delight and inspire. The Lavender Labyrinth is planted with year round flowering lavender and the view from the centre over the lavender rows is spectacular. More than 3000 lavender plants are planted overlooking the impressive Arboretum, and the Lavender display gardens features more than 40 different lavenders, providing an insight into the history of lavender. Ashcombe's circular rose maze was the first of its kind planted in the world with 1200 rose bushes of over 200 varieties chosen for their colour and perfume. The object is to find your way to the centre and then find your way out. Or you can just stop and smell the roses Visitors are welcome to wander through the gardens on the self guided Garden Discovery Trail. The Famous Great Ashcombe Gnome Hunt is fun for all ages. The Ashcombe Maze Cafe features vaulted ceilings and towering windows overlooking the gardens. The fully licensed café offers hearty breakfasts, light lunches and snacks featuring local produce, great coffee and a selection of delicious cakes and cookies, all homemade on the premises. The famous Ashcombe Lavender scones are a must to try. Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring there is always something beautiful to be experienced at Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens.
Box Stallion Winery, the name is a clue to this winery's original role as a thoroughbred horse stud. 'Operating since 2000, today the handsome stable building with its stallion boxes houses the winery cellar door and a high-quality, but reasonably priced restaurant. An iron stove warms in winter while in summer, tables migrate outdoors where tall hedges, elms, planes and eucalypts frame pastures and wetlands, populated by all manner of water fowl. The good quality wines differ from the Peninsula norm, with eclectic varieties like Arneis, Gewurztraminer and Dolcetto, as well as more conventional fare.' Review by Ralph Kyte-Powell. From the first vintage to the current vintage, many trophies, gold, silver and bronze medals and awards have been proudly gathered, not to mention the always-favourable press. With Box Stallion exporting their wine, America, Canada and China wine drinkers are quietly sharing the pleasures of the diverse range of ultra premium, exclusive wines produced solely from the Box Stallion vineyards by veteran winemaker and industry icon Alex White. Some of Victoria's leading restaurant list their wines and continue to marvel at the reception and quality of the product. The wines can also be found in boutique wine stores. Alex White has a long history of success in the wine industry and he is now focused on producing wines of excellence for Box Stallion. The wines of Box Stallion are new, fun and ambitious. This theme is reflected in the cellar door restaurant, the winner of the 2003 and 2004 Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Small Business Award for Tourism. The cellar door caters for customers looking for a relaxed lunch from a carefully composed menu, in the unique surroundings of the now famous Red Barn. The friendly hospitality includes live music on Sundays from some of the best musicians in the business.
Main Ridge Estate is the Mornington Peninsula’s original commercial winery, established in 1975. The 3 hectare cool climate vineyard of 40 year old vines is situated on gentle north facing slopes of rich volcanic soil. It is perfect for high quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay viticulture and wine production.
In December 2015, local winemaking pioneers Nat and Rosalie White passed ownership of the property to the Sexton family. The Sextons live on site and continue the Main Ridge Estate tradition of friendly personal service every day in the cellar door. Nat White remains involved as a consultant and mentor to new winemaker James Sexton.
The Main Ridge Estate winemaking philosophies have also been maintained: wines are grown and made entirely on the Estate, yields are held to very low levels to optimise quality, and exacting winemaking techniques are used to ensure fault free and complex wines which express the characteristics of the site, and the Mornington Peninsula region.
The cellar door and sundeck overlook the vineyards and extensive gardens. Light lunches are available during Summer and select weekends, featuring seasonal ingredients from local suppliers. We also present regular intimate concerts and wine dinners in the cellar door.
Our Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Merlot can be purchased at the cellar door, through our online shop or by calling or emailing direct. Main Ridge Estate wine is stocked by leading restaurants and wine stores.
Stonier Wines was established in 1978. They are located on the Mornington Peninsula in Merricks.
They specialise in Sparkling Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Reserve Chardonnay, Single Vineyard Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Reserve Pinot Noir, Single Vineyard Pinot Noir Wines.
Cheese platters are available daily as well as wine tastings. For any further information please contact Stonier Wines.
"Stonier has long been recognised for making excellent varietal wines on the Mornington Peninsula. The standard Pinot Noir Chardonnay are always terrific value, and the Reserve range highly decorated over the years. There can be no doubt that Brian Stonier's original intent of 28 years ago, on concentrating solely on the quality of the wine, continues to this day." Ben Edwards.
She is a one-off original, he is a clever winemaker of the highest order and together husband and wife team, Kathleen Quealy and Kevin McCarthy, like to shake things up big time. Their subversive winemaking is positively electrifying. (As described in the Gourmet Traveller Wine. April/May 2016).
Their property is very laid back Old Balnarring, converted from orchard in the 1980’s, their vineyard is amongst the oldest on the Peninsula. Inside their winery cellar door you can taste soft voluptuous Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir alongside cutting edge natural wines Turbul Friulano and Kathleen’s favourites Pinot Grigio, Pobblebonk – a field blend and Rageous – their Sangiovese blend. As well as their own vineyard, these winemakers operate five premium vineyards in their region, all with a commitment to sustainable farming and allowing full creative reign.
Their tasting style is welcoming, informative and is a true exploration of Mornington Peninsula’s wine region.
The idea for Paradigm Hill was conceived almost 30 years ago. They have always been passionate about food and wine and their 'other' careers have laid the foundation for this adventure.
As with so many other things they have ever tackled, Paradigm Hill was a case of "all or none" and their obsession with the pursuit of quality has meant pushing the boundaries with viticulture and viniculture and to work within the domain of ecologically responsible practices.
It has often been said, great wine is made in the vineyard. They have just over ten acres of north facing gently sloping vineyard. The vineyard has been established with a very low density of vines (average only 500 vines per acre) grafted onto vigour and phylloxera resistant rootstock.
The trellis runs north south and vines have been trained to a 'vision, service, plan' approach with a keen eye on ensuring a balanced vine. They are committed to using only estate grown grapes for on site production of Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Pinot Gris and Riesling.
The philosophy of their wine making is to guide the wine with minimal intervention, through the vinification process. The fruit is picked by loving hands, with vintage being a time for celebration.
'This vogueish new cellar door and winery at the end of a long driveway boasts a large timber deck with an eye-pleasing view of vineyards, meadows, stands of bush and rolling hills. An excellent spot to savour very good Riesling, Shiraz, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. Tasting plates of savoury delicacies are available to complement the wines. Keep an eye out for some very relaxed cows and deer in the hollow in front of the winery.' Ralph Kyte-Powell.
Prancing Horse Estate is a super premium cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir producer that leads the Mornington Peninsula's biodynamic movement. They first introduced cool climate biodynamic farming and winemaking in 2002 together with international expertise in site, soil and clonal selection.
At Prancing Horse Estate they aim to achieve balanced wines with intense flavours and structure. Their imprint on the Australian and French wine landscapes has been achieved through an uncompromising approach using organic and biodynamic principles in their vineyards and in the winery. Throughout the winemaking process, Prancing Horse winemaker, Sergio Carlei oversees the gentlest biodynamic approach.
In the Vineyard, Paul Danaher and his team engage in a rigorous program of biodynamic viticulture. The aim is to improve wine quality and optimise fruit flavours the natural way by continually improving the quality of the soil. These elements have fused and frame their ambition to be regarded as one of Australia's truly great cool-climate producers.
'Rated five red stars, amongst the best in Australia. Outstanding winery. Wines of exemplary quality and typicity.' The Australian Wine Companion 2011, James Halliday.
Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove is a Mornington Peninsula showplace. Its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are in the best regional mould, and sparkling wine follows the same quality direction.
Wetland habitats and a lake make it a sanctuary for local waterbirds, an olive grove produces luxurious golden oil. Sculpture and artworks dot the grounds, with the Montalto Sculpture Prize an annual high point.
Montalto Vineyard and Olive Grove offers all visitors an experience to remember. They have the dream that all who visit feel rewarded by the time shared.
The thirty acres of vines at Montalto are the source of our premium cool climate wine, with the estate holding the top red five star rating in Halliday's Wine Companion. The focus is on the key Mornington Peninsula varieties of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, however the range has something for everyone, from Sparkling, Pinot Grigio, and Rosé through to Shiraz.
The 1500 mature olive trees on the property produce cold pressed, extra virgin olive oils. estate cured olives, and olive tapenade. Their products are available only from the estate, and can be experienced in their intimate cellar door.
The Chef's Hat rated Montalto Restaurant, acknowledged as the Peninsula's best, serves food inspired by regional France, but anchored in the fresh seasonal produce of the estate and region.
The adjoining piazza offers simple, tasty food with wine enjoyed in a garden or courtyard table setting. Selected sites within the property are available for elegant, fully catered outdoor picnic dining, ideal for a romantic lunch or unique experience.
'A stylish restaurant and a European style alfresco piazza cater for all dining needs, or eat outdoors with a difference - secluded, catered picnic sites offer a quality twist on alfresco food.' Ralph Kyte-Powell
Phillip Island, on Victoria’s South Coast, is home to an amazing wildlife species, including Australia’s largest fur seal colony, the colony of around 32,000 Little Penguins and cuddly koalas.
Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, our Private Phillip Island Tour is a full day chartered tour includes nature walks along Phillip Island’s stunning beaches and boardwalks, meeting some of the local faunas such as seals, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, birds and of course the Penguin Parade.
Enjoy getting close to koalas and kangaroos before joining the Little Penguins at dusk as each night, hundreds (sometimes thousands!) of penguins emerge from the surf and waddle across the beach at the world famous Penguin Parade.
The scenic journey on the luxurious seats of our modified 9-seater VIP minibus is a highlight in itself, as it features spectacular coastal scenery, charming heritage and an abundance of wildlife.
Want the best penguin viewing opportunities in Australia? Take the Penguin Eco Tour for a premium penguin experience that offers a personalized, intimate wildlife experience. Or choose the Underground Viewing option to enjoy the closest possible viewing of the Penguin Parade at eye-level.
ULTIMATE PENGUIN ECO TOUR: Designed to cater for up to 10 people only, this fully accredited eco tour takes visitors to a stunning, secluded beach to view the little penguins waddling ashore to their sand dune burrows. The beach is in a completely different location to the standard Penguin Parade. This tour is the premium penguin experience on offer and ideal for those seeking a more personalized, intimate wildlife experience. As the sun sets and the light fades, participants can use night vision technology to view the penguins. Rangers provide an informative commentary which visitors listen to through personal headphones.Experience the best of Melbourne on this four-day hotel and tour combo, with plenty of free time (on your own) so you can sample Melbourne’s cafe and restaurant scene at your leisure. See all the sights of Melbourne on this multi-day city stay, from Queen Victoria Market to the MCG, then travel to Phillip Island to see the famous penguin parade and take a trip along the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles. With accommodation, airport transfers and breakfasts included, it’s the perfect introduction to marvelous Melbourne!
ItineraryTake a day trip to Wilsons Promontory from Phillip Island. Highlights include sightseeing on the Phillip Island coastline, the Bass Coast Hinterland, Bunurong Coast, Cape Liptrap Coast, and Wilsons Promontory. Visit some of the beautiful beaches on Wilsons Promontory and see native wildlife and birds. All inclusive including lunch, morning & afternoon tea and entry fees.
Your day begins from Cowes at around 9am before the drive to the Nobbies along the cliff coast line to Summerland Beach. Then onto view some of the most beautiful surf beaches and coastline in Australia. Head off the Island and drive through the Bass Coast Hinterland on the way to the Bunurong Coastal Drive.This tour of the Bass Coast and South Gippsland is ideal for travelers who want to experience beautiful nature and wildlife in a gentle way. You’ll be driven through the countryside and will make plenty of stops. Your local guide will tell you all about the landscape and the wildlife you’ll see, which may include penguins, kangaroos, and echidnas. There’s no need to tire yourself out on a vigorous hike or cycling trip, as you’ll see the highlights in a relaxing way.
Enjoy hiking the invigorating and scenic Cape Woolamai trail on Phillip Island without the risk of getting lost, on a guided tour. Spot a range of wildlife—including penguins and wallabies—that you might miss if traveling alone. If you’re making good time there will even be the chance to stop for a wine or beer tasting—a great way to relax en route.
Fast Tracked Private Tour with a renowned Expert Guide;Â conducted in a Modern, Luxury Vehicle (spacious with 8 seats); that takes you Direct to the Penguin Parade, where you will be seated in the Penguins PLUS seating area ( closer viewing area of the Penguin Parade).
ItineraryWith limited time to spend in Melbourne, book a private tour that takes you from city streets to the Eureka Skydeck in just 3 hours. Sip a coffee drink of your choice, discover the street art scene, sample a hearty tasting of multicultural food, and finish with a bottle of beer at a hidden laneway bar. With a personal guide you’ll get a literal taste of Melbourne highlights.
Witness the spectacular coastal scenery of Australia on a 4-hour whale watching cruise around Phillip Island. Climb aboard a stylish vessel with a professional guide and scour the sea for sightings of rare wildlife. See thousands of fur seals at Seal Rocks; keep your eyes peeled for rare seabirds like the shy albatross and little penguin; and marvel at dolphins diving out of the water with incredible grace. With luck, enjoy the unforgettable experience of watching humpback whales in their natural environment on this exhilarating cruise.
Experience the magic of Phillip Island at twilight on board this 1.5-hour catamaran cruise. Set sail for a scenic cruise around Western Port Bay, gliding past dramatic landmarks like French Island and Stony Point, and spotting the HMAS Otama submarine. Keep a look out for playful dolphins, short-tailed shearwaters and adorable Australian fur seals as you float around the bay, then tuck into complimentary snacks or purchase a drink from the on-board bar.ÂÂ
Experience Phillip Island’s best scenery and most adorable critters on this day trip that makes it easy to get around without renting a car. There’s fun for all ages at the Antarctic Journey exhibits and Churchill Island heritage farm, plus some of the best views in Victoria from the Bass Coast and Summerland Beach. See wildlife in action at the Koala Conservation Center and with premium seating at the famous Penguin Parade, a nightly phenomenon where penguins waddle across the beach to their burrows.
Make the most out of your visit to Phillip Island with this 3-park pass, the best value for checking out three of the island’s top attractions: the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm. Visit each site at your own pace and in whatever order you wish; your pass is valid for six months. Go face to face with koalas in their natural environment; see farming activities like sheep shearing at a historical homestead; and watch fairy penguins (aka little penguins, the world’s smallest) parade out of the sea and across the beach at sunset.
Your Phillip Island 3-park pass gives you access to the island’s top three wildlife and historical attractions — the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm — which are all part of Phillip Island Nature Park. You can visit all three in one day or spread it out over several days — your pass is valid for six months.Explore Phillip Island in style on a full-day tour that includes a 2-course restaurant lunch and visits to a local winery and brewery. Go sightseeing at destinations including the Nobbies, Bass Coast, and other scenic spots where you can look for wallabies, little penguins, Australian fur seals, and other wildlife. Relax during the lunch, which comes with a glass of wine or beer.
This tour is for the wine connoisseurs. We leave from Cowes and drive to the Mornington Peninsula and visit at least 6 wineries, a brewery and a cheese factory for tastings. Lunch at a winery and sightseeing the Mornington Peninsula, the Bass Coast Hinterland and Phillip Island.
Itinerary