How To Spend A Long Weekend in the Mornington Peninsula

02 Apr 2024

If you’re coming from Melbourne to do Coastrek Mornington Peninsula, you might as well make a weekend of it! Here’s where to eat, drink and play to make the most of your epic adventure. 

Thursday
Clock off work early and drive down the coast. After checking in to your accommodation, grab a quick and delicious pizza at The Portsea Hotel to fuel up for your big day. Don’t overdo it on the wine and get an early night! 


The Portsea Hotel is the perfect spot for a pre-Coastrek meal. 

Friday
It’s Coastrek Event Day! After a nourishing breakfast at home, head to the start line, where you can grab a coffee at one of our coffee carts and get ready for your amazing adventure. Too early for a start-line coffee? Grab one en route at Le Capucin, Portsea. It's also the perfect spot to grab some lunch if you haven't packed your own. 


Pick up your packed lunch at Portsea Front Beach to fuel your Coastrek hike. 

After you cross that finish line, head home for a shower and a rest, before venturing out for some dinner. We recommend The Bay Hotel Mornington for bougie bar food and a decent glass of wine. If you can be bothered with shoes, Many Little is an outstanding contemporary wine bar with a Sri Lanken influence. If you want something more casual, hit Red Gum BBQ or Itali.co for a warm and friendly dinner. They also do takeaway if leaving the couch is not an option. 


If you're looking for a sophisticated dinner after your adventure, Many Little will do the trick. 

Saturday
Start your day with a gentle walk to stretch out those tired muscles, or hit a ‘Balance’ yoga class at Higher Ground in Red Hill, followed by brunch at Nordie. 


Stretch out those tired legs with yoga at Higher Ground. 

Then, we’re heading to the Peninsula Hot Springs to soak away any aches and pains from your Coastrek walk. You’ll need to book your time in advance, don’t miss out! For a slightly more elevated spa experience, try Alba Thermal Springs and Spa - private pools are available. 


Soak away any aches and pains in the healing waters of the Peninsula Hot Springs. 

After the hot springs, enjoy some downtime before heading out for dinner at Audrey’s in Sorrento. The stunning fine-dining restaurant by restaurateur Scott Pickett is a treat for both the eyes and the tastebuds. You’ll need to bring your wallet for this one, but trust us, it’s worth it. 


For the ultimate re-fuel, try Audrey's. 

If you prefer wining and dining to soaking, skip the springs and head to the gorgeous Polperro for a late lunch. A quintessential Mornington Peninsula dining experience with views over the surrounding vineyards, the restaurant and cellar door won’t disappoint. It’s the perfect place to idle away an afternoon. 

For a slightly more low-key dinner, try Bistro Elba in Sorrento or Donna Maria in Flinders. 


Donna Maria's offers a low-key but chic dinner option. 

Sunday
Enjoy a lie in or a morning walk, then try brunch at Stringers Sorrento, the Mornington Peninsula icon that recently enjoyed a face-lift by the Darling Group. The design is immaculate and the food is delicious. Pick up some lovely deli items to munch on the car journey home. 


The newly renovated Stringers, Sorrento. 

After brunch, wander up Sorrento’s main strip for a spot of shopping. From Stylerunner to Viktoria & Woods, Seed Heritage, Country Road, MECCA and more, you’ll be able to shop your favourites with the luxury of time. 

If you’ve got some more walking in your legs, a trip to Arthur’s Seat is worth a visit, or head over to the area around Cape Schank and Flinders Blowhole for some rugged, wild coast. 


Womble around Cape Schanck or other areas of natural beauty on the peninsula.

When you’re ready, jump back in the car and head home feeling relaxed, invigorated and more connected than ever. 

Registrations for Coastrek Mornington Peninsula close April 14 2024. Sign up now.