Ten reasons to visit Mornington Peninsula

Lovers of food and wine can download a map outlining all the peninsula’s foodie highlights: markets, restaurants, wineries, distilleries, chocolate shops, cheese shops and farms.

Gary Crittenden, who founded his first winery on the peninsula in 1982, pioneered Italian wine varietals in Australia. Today, the family business creates premium pinot gris, saludo, moscato, vermentino and more. The Stillwater Restaurant within the estate is one of the best in the region. 25 Harrisons Rd, Dromana 3936. www.crittendenwines.com.au.

Operating from the coastal village of Sorrento, Moonraker Seal and Dolphin Swims will take you out into Port Phillip Bay, kit you out with wetsuit and snorkel and take you to three locations to swim and view seals, sea dragons and Bottlenose dolphins. Sorrento Pier, Sorrento 3943. www.moonrakercharters.com.au

Head out for a paddle in the kayak or standing up on a paddleboard. Dive in with your wetsuit and fins to discover the marine life that awaits beneath the surface. 1621-1623 Point Nepean Rd, Rosebud West 3940. www.extremewatersport.com.au.

Replenish and rejuvenate among the natural hot springs at this award-winning coastal oasis. Steam baths, plunge pools, saunas, family bathing area and natural skin treatments are all available. Springs Ln, Fingal 3939. www.peninsulahotsprings.com

Explore the mazes and themed gardens; bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake; and take a stroll upon the Treetop Canopy Walk. The more daring should try ‘Tree Surfing’ (a climbing challenge over obstacles), zip lines (flying foxes) or riding down the slopes on inflatable tubes. 55 Purves Rd, Arthurs Seat 3936. www.enchantedmaze.com.au.

Experience Gunnamatta’s signature two-hour horse ride as it takes you along the stunning Bass Strait coastlines. 150 Sandy Rd, Fingal 3939. www.gunnamatta.com.au.

An old bowling alley has been transformed into a quirky café. Discover its charming emporium of retro art, sculpture, homewares and gifts sourced from local artists. 2 Colchester Rd, Rosebud 3939. www.bluemini.com.au.

Wake up just metres from the beach when you bring your tent or caravan to campsites at Rosebud, Rye or Sorrento. These sites are well cared for and provide excellent facilities. www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Leisure_Tourism/ Foreshore_Camping.

Aquabelle Apartments are seven luxurious and spacious units facing the ocean. Choose from one, two and three bedrooms, all with stylish contemporary design. Point Nepean Rd, Rye 3941. www.aquabelle.com.au.