墨尔本小众游｜Bellarine Peninsula

Melbourne Off-the-Beaten-Path | Bellarine Peninsula


 
For short trips around Melbourne, I prefer the Bellarine Peninsula far more than the crowded, trendy coastlines. It's just over an hour's drive from the city, so no long journeys, no dense clusters of must-see attractions, and no excessive commercial clamor.

 

 

The entire peninsula is connected by quiet coastal towns, with gentle bays, vintage towns, and peaceful wineries. Whether it's a leisurely day trip by car or a relaxed two-day stay, it's incredibly comfortable. Its beauty is understated, a relaxed feeling pieced together by sea breezes, old streets, grassy areas, and a blue sea, particularly suitable for escaping the fast pace of the city and simply unwinding.

 


 
Portarlington: A leisurely, tranquil fishing village
Every time I come to Bellarine, I always make Portarlington my first stop. Compared to bustling seaside resorts, this place feels more like a hidden gem for locals. The town center street is short, and you can walk through it in a few steps. Along the street are understated vintage shops, cafes, and simple eateries, without flashy trendy decor, all quiet and stress-free to browse. When you reach the pier, the view instantly opens up. A flat boardwalk extends along the bay, and the sea is calm and gentle. On a clear day, you can vaguely see the outline of Melbourne's city center in the distance.

 


 
The seafood stalls at the pier are well worth a stop, offering fresh local catches of the day. Mussels, small fish, and shrimp are simple but incredibly fresh. The outdoor cafes by the shore are a regular haunt for locals. Order a simple brunch with an iced Americano, sit and watch fishing boats slowly enter and leave the harbor, and observe people walking their dogs. Time will unconsciously slow down.

 


 
If you enjoy light exercise, the coastal cycling path here is very friendly. The path is flat, with gentle slopes. Cycling from Portarlington to Indented Head, you'll pass continuous shallows and grassy areas. The sea breeze is refreshing, making it easy and therapeutic.

 


 
Peninsula Wineries: Gentle pastoral landscapes facing the bay
The wineries of Bellarine are a major highlight that sets it apart from other coastlines. They are nestled between mountains and bays, away from bustling tourist areas, creating an exceptionally quiet atmosphere.

 


 
I most often visit Jack Rabbit Vineyard, where the winery terrace offers an incredible view. Expanses of grapevines spread across gentle slopes, connecting to the bay and distant mountains, creating an open and expansive vista. There's no need to order a full meal; a local cheese platter paired with a refreshing white wine is enough to while away most of an afternoon. Sunlight falls on the grape leaves, and the air carries the scent of grass and fruit. It's perfect for friends chatting or simply zoning out alone.
 
If you don't like wine, you can go to Flying Brick Cider Co. With a huge grassy area, the atmosphere is free and casual. Their homemade apple cider is sweet and crisp, perfect with a light meal, and completely suitable for bringing children and pets to relax.

 


 
Another highly recommended spot is Basils Farm, near Queenscliff. It's a niche pastoral winery and restaurant on the peninsula, built along Swan Bay, facing the entire bay and the coastline of Queenscliff, offering a clear and healing view. This is an organic ecological farm with its own vegetable garden, flower beds, and large flat lawns. It specializes in seasonal local ingredients, with most dishes sourced from the farm's own produce and nearby farmers. The flavors are light and rustic, allowing you to taste the authentic essence of Australian rural ingredients.