Suitcase. Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

For those of you who haven't visited the Mornington Peninsular along Melbourne's south east coast, it is a beautiful part of the world. I've been lucky enough to travel down this way a few times over the years and explore the many different things this region has to offer. It truly is a place you can enjoy all year round; obviously it's great to visit in summer to soak up the sunshine and have a dip in the calm bay waters, but even in winter the region has plenty on offer and the cold (often angry) ocean is a pretty spectacular site, plus there's plenty of vineyards around to help you warm your soul with a glass or two of wine. If you get the chance to visit, here are a few of the things I'd check out.

Mount Martha and Safety Beach
Make sure you take a drive around this area. The houses on the hilltop are lovely and have spectacular views, and this little beach area is really quaint. You can also find some hidden paths leading down from the top of the Esplande to some pebble beaches that few people know about.

Ashcombe Hedge Maze
I've been fascinated with hedge mazes since I was a little girl after hearing my English grandma speak about them. I finally made it to this one on my last trip down and it's really great. The maze is pretty big and surprisingly you will find you actually do get lost. But don't worry you'll always eventually find your way out. As well as the maze, Ashcombe has lavender gardens, a private lake, fountains and various horticultural delights.

Flinders
On the south east side of the district looking out towards Philip Island you'll find Flinders. It's a quiet little spot with pretty views and lovely beaches. There are some great cafes in town too so I'd recommend making this your lunch stop.

Sorrento & Portsea
Probably the two most iconic locations on the Mornington Peninsula, Sorrento and Portsea are like the Hamptons of Melbourne. There are plenty of beach side mansions, kitchy homewares stores, those iconic coloured beach sheds and lovely places to dine. This is the perfect stop if you want the opportunity to live like the Victorian elite for the day.

Mornington Vineyard District
Let's not forget a very important component of this Victorian district; the vineyards! The area is abundant with local wine growers and producers, I guess you could say it's like the Yarra Valley's little sister. Make sure you do some exploring in the countryside and check out the varieties available.

Arthurs Seat
Arthurs Seat provides the highest look-out point in the area, resulting in some breathtaking views in all directions. It's great to venture up here to get some perspective and look out toward the endless ocean. You'll be able to see the entire coastline from up here, the outline of the city's high rises and the many ships on their way to port in Melbourne.

I had to include this sunset picture I took, I think it's pretty spectacular.

Photos by Krissie.