The Mornington Peninsula offers a pleasant refuge from city traffic and stress. Beautiful beaches, vineyards, national parks, hot springs, and nature walks are all available. The inland area is home to over 50 wineries, many of which are renowned for both their wines and their refined restaurants with views of vineyards, gentle hills, and lakes. The coastline between Mount Martha, Dromana, Rosebud, and Portsea is crowded with colorful cabins that have become iconic. The beaches on the other side of the peninsula are frequented by winds known as the "Roaring Forties," which create waves suitable for surfers. For pampering, the ideal place is the Peninsula Hot Springs, Victoria's first natural hot springs and daytime wellness center.
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Day 2 — Mornington Peninsula → Port Campbell
Continue along the Mornington Peninsula to Sorrento and board the ferry to Queencliff (Peninsula Searoad Transport) - departures every hour from 08.00 to 18.00 (not included). Cross Port Philip Bay to reach the Great Ocean Road starting from Torquay. After passing Lorne, Apollo Bay, and the Otway National Park, you will encounter the famous 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Arrive in Port Campbell, in the heart of the Great Ocean Road (approximately 280km/4.5 hours + ferry). Stop off at Port Campbell during your Great Ocean Road journey and admire the spectacular coastal scenery, including Port Campbell National Park and the mighty 12 Apostles. A colourful and lively seaside village, Port Campbell is home to restaurants and cafes with views of the beach, bakeries selling homemade goodies, and plenty of vibrant shops and galleries to explore. Sheltered by cliffs and Norfolk pines, the town has the atmosphere of a safe haven on the edge of wild nature. Finish the day with a walk out to the Port Campbell Jetty and watch the waves crashing against the limestone cliffs. You are here to look at
the towering 12 Apostles, the dramatic limestone stacks that have made the region famous. But be sure to leave time to check out some of the other coastal features in the area. Discover the eerie beach at Loch Ard Gorge, walk down the 70-metre cliff face via the Gibson Steps, and look out over the serene Bay of Islands. And bring your camera to capture the unique rock formations at London Bridge, The Arch and The Grotto. Two Mile Bay is revered by surfers as one of the best big-wave breaks in Australia. Make your way north of the coast on the Kanawinka Geotrail and explore the lush green farmland peppered with volcanic lakes and craters. Sip, sample and savour the region's bounty along the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail. Take an afternoon cruise and pick up a basketful of regional cheeses, wines, chocolates, ice-cream and fresh berries. Round out the tour with a sip of whiskey or sweet liqueur from Timboon's finest.
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Day 3 — Port Campbell → Penola
A day available to visit the most famous stretch of coastline in Australia. Continuing towards Port Fairy, you will come across Sentinel Rock, The Arch, and London Bridge. Arrive in Penola and overnight stay.