Places To Stay
You asked for the cosy little cottage stay, and the Mornington Peninsula has answered! Arakoola Studio in Balnarring has been designed specifically for two to enjoy, so rest assured knowing it has all the amenities for a couples retreat. Its location is an additional drawcard - tucked away enough to feel secluded and private, but in such close proximity to the region’s leading attractions and experiences. If you’re wanting to head further down the Mornington Peninsula, we recommend a stay at the historic Flinders Hotel. The 40 spacious and luxurious rooms here are clean, comfortable and the ideal place to rest as part of a mini-break. Daily gourmet breakfast here is a big plus!
For more accommodation options to help you rest, reset and recharge, click here.
Arakoola Studio
Flinders Hotel
Things To Do
No matter the season, there are countless things to do for you and your significant other on the Mornington Peninsula.
Attractions
When it comes time to fully wind down and relax, Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs are the way to go. World-class bathing experiences, spa treatments and more will have you and your loved one feeling rejuvenated in no time. Make it a real treat with private bathing or a full-day package (but only if the budget agrees). When night falls, settle in for a classic or contemporary flick at the Dromana 3 Drive-In as part of a magical night beneath the stars. Don’t forget your blanket and pillows to keep things extra cosy!
Alba Thermal Springs & Spa
Peninsula Hot Springs
Dromana 3 Drive-In
Markets
Mornington Peninsula markets have plenty to offer in the way of food, drink, crafts and stellar vibes. And if you’re a lover of new things and experiences, these are definitely the places to want to be! Wander the stalls, support the locals and learn the stories of talented makers, producers and growers of the region.
Places To Eat + Drink
Wineries
Mornington Peninsula wineries are a great place to start for those couples who love quality food and wine. And trust us when we say - you don’t have to break the budget to visit these top foodie destinations! Montalto in Red Hill South has an outdoor piazza area that is perfectly paired with warmth and sunshine. The food here is made and served with love, alongside an extensive selection of wines to complement. Top tip - take a wander on the neighbouring outdoor Sculpture Trail pre or post-dining. Art in the great outdoors could well be described as a match made in heaven! Indoor dining is just as superb at Polperro Winery in Red Hill. Attentive service, five-star food and stunning surroundings all included. For something with the same level of quality but with more of a relaxed vibe, look no further than Foxeys Hangout in Red Hill. The outside tables under the umbrellas are particularly lovely.
To explore more Mornington Peninsula wineries, click here.
Montalto
Coffee + Food
Nothing quite beats the morning cup of freshly roasted coffee. The verandah at Merricks General Wine Store is open every day from 7am for the daily coffee fix. If you can stay a little longer, head inside their restaurant for a delicious breakfast, lunch or brunch feed. Especially inviting when the roaring fire brings cosiness and warmth during the colder months. Only a short distance away from Arakoola Studio is the Red Hill Baker in Balnarring. An ideal spot to stop for decadent sweets, golden pastries and warm cups of coffee.
Merricks General Wine Store
Cocktails
A clink of a cocktail gets the tick of approval from us when choosing a way to celebrate the end of a busy day with your partner. For everything easy, breezy and ocean-inspired, check out Zigis Bar in Flinders. It’ll be only footsteps away if choosing to stay at Flinders Hotel! Set within Dromana’s vibrant industrial estate, Bass and Flinders in Dromana is also a great place to kick back with a gin-inspired drink in hand.
For more food and drink destinations on the Mornington Peninsula that most definitely live up to the hype, click here.
Bass and Flinders
Places To See
Beaches, parks and so much more - here are some of the best places to see as part of a romantic escape on the Mornington Peninsula.
Walks
Walking or hiking adventures represent some of the most inspiring ways to experience the MP lifestyle. Keeping to the region’s southeast, the Flinders Blowhole Walking Track offers both coastal and wildlife photo opportunities. It’s a relatively easy walk down the boardwalk to the beach, making for a great way to feel refreshed for the day ahead. The neighbouring Mushroom Reef Beach is a must-visit if wanting to go on a rockpool exploring adventure too!
Sunrise + Sunset Spots
What could be more romantic than watching the sun come up or go down alongside your loved one? While it may require a detour of sorts, Arthurs Seat Lookout is the jewel in the crown of scenic sunset locations. If keen for a hiking challenge, an on-foot journey to the 314 summit here is great to experience during the day. For an amazing sunrise, make sure to check out The Dragon’s Head in Rye. Can you guess the best time to see a Mornington Peninsula sunrise or sunset? It’s in Autumn!
Free Things To Do
The best things in life are free! Well…a lot of them are anyway. Beaches, National Parks, The Briars and the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery - the list is endless for free things to do on the Mornington Peninsula.
Hidden Gems
Hidden gems are a particular type of special on the Mornington Peninsula. They might be tucked away from bustling villages or towns. Or they might be destinations that while not widely known about, are bursting with charm and appeal. Farmgates are particular treasures when it comes to hidden gems. Hart’s Farm in Shoreham is a favourite for their cider tastings led by founders and owners Penny and Graeme Hart. You’ll also want to check out the extensive list of Mornington Peninsula galleries. The perfect place to wander alongside your significant other and lose yourself in a world of creativity. Top picks include EVERYWHEN Artspace in Flinders and Elan Vineyard and Gallery in Balnarring.
There are so many more hidden gems to discover during your time here on the Mornington Peninsula. Find them here!
Hart's Farm
Keen for more romantic recommendations on the Mornington Peninsula?