A mythical jackrabbit lends its name to this avant-garde retreat set within its own boutique vineyard on the Mornington Peninsula. The design announces itself boldly: a chandelier of 10,000 globes, glowing corridors, and a floor-to-ceiling glass wine cellar. Suites offer Japanese soaking tubs and heated floors with sweeping vineyard views. A pool and spa complete the surreal indulgence.
Three contemporary lodges anchor the western terminus of the Great Ocean Road, their spacious interiors designed for seclusion without sacrificing proximity to the region's coastal landmarks. Alkina Lodge accommodates families with particular care—cots, high chairs, a games cabinet, and dedicated children's tableware come standard. The architecture favors clean lines and generous proportions, suited to travelers seeking modern comfort in wild surroundings.
Vineyard views and crackling in-room fireplaces set the tone at this Mornington Peninsula retreat, where intimate lounges encourage slow afternoons between winery visits. The Dining Room anchors the culinary program with refined regional cooking, and a children's menu keeps younger guests content. An interconnecting suite accommodating five, along with cots and babysitting, makes Lindenderry a rare country escape that welcomes families without sacrificing romance.
An 1875 limestone building anchors this 108-room property where three architectural wings trace a line from Victorian heritage to contemporary polish. The Aurora Spa & Bathhouse delivers Turkish bath rituals and extensive wellness programming, while Audrey's by Scott Pickett occupies the original stone structure with refined Australian cuisine. Between Port Phillip Bay and open ocean, the surrounding wine country completes a coastal retreat suited to those seeking both restoration and gastronomy.
Autumn (March to May) brings harvest season at the vineyards, mild temperatures ideal for hiking, and fewer crowds than summer. Winter suits hot springs visits and cozy cellar door afternoons. Summer remains popular for beach access, though accommodation books months ahead for the December-January peak.
Public transport reaches the peninsula via metro train to Frankston, then connecting buses to Mornington, Rosebud, and Sorrento. However, exploring vineyards, beaches, and scattered attractions proves difficult without driving. Several operators run wine tours from Melbourne, and the Queenscliff-Sorrento ferry connects to the Bellarine Peninsula for those continuing around Port Phillip Bay.
The bay side — Mornington, Mount Martha, Portsea — offers sheltered water suitable for families and swimming. The back beaches along Bass Strait deliver consistent swells for surfing, particularly Gunnamatta and Rye ocean beach, though strong currents require experience. Lifeguard patrols operate at main beaches during summer months.
An hour south of Melbourne, this rugged coastal stretch unfolds between Port Phillip Bay's calm swimming beaches and the Bass Strait's wilder surf breaks. The peninsula's spine runs through undulating farmland and cool-climate vineyards — Red Hill and Main Ridge produce exceptional pinot noir and chardonnay that draw weekend visitors from the city. Towns retain distinct personalities: Sorrento's limestone heritage buildings and café-lined main street contrast with Flinders' quieter village atmosphere and its weathered wooden pier.
Hot springs have become a defining draw. The geothermal bathing culture here takes its cues from Japanese onsen traditions, with hillside pools overlooking bushland. Accommodation ranges from architect-designed retreats with floor-to-ceiling glazing to converted farmhouses on working properties. The food scene leans heavily on local produce — olive groves, berry farms, and cheesemakers supply the region's restaurants, while cellar doors serve wood-fired fare alongside tastings.
