6 Scenic Nature Walks on the Bellarine Peninsula (Perfect for Cooler Weather!)
It all begins with an idea.
Looking to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh sea air, and explore the stunning natural beauty of the Bellarine Peninsula? You're in for a treat! 🌿 Whether you're chasing rugged coastlines, tranquil wetlands, or leafy coastal tracks, these 6 scenic walks are all perfect for cooler days—and within easy reach of Sandpiper House.
Grab your jacket, leash up your pup 🐾 (most are dog-friendly on-lead!), and maybe plan a coffee stop or two ☕—here’s your go-to list of beautiful walks nearby:
1. The Bluff Lookout Walk, Barwon Heads
Distance from Sandpiper House: 🚗 15 minutes (approx. 20 km)
Trail length: 🌿 2–3 km return
Difficulty: ✅ Easy
Highlights: Clifftop ocean views, birdlife, and dramatic rock formations.
This coastal clifftop trail offers breathtaking views of Bass Strait and the Barwon River estuary. On clear days, you'll spot surfers below and possibly a passing pod of dolphins! Ideal for a bracing morning walk.
Coffee break nearby: ☕ Starfish Bakery – A beloved local spot for coffee, flaky pastries, and brekkie rolls.
2. Ocean Grove Nature Reserve
Distance from Sandpiper House: 🚗 12 minutes (approx. 14 km)
Trail length: 🌿 Up to 4 km of looping tracks
Difficulty: ✅ Easy to moderate
Highlights: Tranquil bushland, kangaroo sightings, and over 100 species of birds.
A peaceful inland walk with well-maintained paths through rare coastal woodland. Great for wildlife spotting!
Coffee break nearby: ☕ The Driftwood Café in Ocean Grove – cozy up with locally roasted coffee and nourishing brunch options.
3. Bellarine Rail Trail – Drysdale to Queenscliff section
Distance from Sandpiper House: 🚗 3 minutes (or bike from home!)
Trail length: 🌿 Up to 16.5 km one way – but walk as far as you like!
Difficulty: ✅ Easy
Highlights: Country views, vineyards, native bushland, and historic train sightings.
This flat, multi-use trail is perfect for walking or cycling. You can start right in Drysdale and follow the path toward Queenscliff, soaking in the rural charm.
Coffee break nearby: ☕ Cafe Zoo | Great Coffee | Drysdale, VIC for a quick warm drink before or after your stroll.
4. Point Lonsdale Lighthouse to Springs Beach Trail
Distance from Sandpiper House: 🚗 15 minutes (approx. 16 km)
Trail length: 🌿 2.5 km return
Difficulty: ✅ Easy
Highlights: Historic lighthouse, wild waves of The Rip, rock pools.
A stunning mix of history and nature, this walk is a perfect blend of clifftop views and rugged beachside scenery. Good shoes recommended if you venture into the rock pools!
Coffee break nearby: ☕ Noble Rot Wine Bar (yes, they serve excellent coffee in the mornings!) or Grow café for something heartier.
5. Lake Lorne Reserve, Drysdale
Distance from Sandpiper House: 🚗 3 minutes (approx. 2 km)
Trail length: 🌿 1.5–2 km loop
Difficulty: ✅ Easy
Highlights: Birdwatching, native plants, peaceful setting.
A local secret! This picturesque lake circuit is a calming spot to enjoy nature and birdlife. Bring binoculars if you have them—this is a top birdwatching destination.
Coffee break nearby: ☕ The Bungalow Restaurant & Café – their coffee, cakes and brunches are a local favourite.
6. The Dell, Clifton Springs
Distance from Sandpiper House: 🏡 Approximately 1 km (10-minute walk)
Trail length: 🌿 1.3 km loop
Difficulty: ✅ Easy
Highlights: Hidden beach cove, historic staircase, dramatic cliffs.
Just around the corner from Sandpiper House, this short yet spectacular coastal trail leads you down into the scenic Dell. Perfect for a peaceful early morning or sunset stroll.
Coffee break nearby: ☕ Griggs Creek Providore – fantastic coffee, gourmet pastries, and a cozy, relaxed atmosphere just minutes away.
Final Tips:
Most walks are dog-friendly 🐶 (on-lead), but be sure to check signage before you go.
Bring a warm layer and a beanie—coastal winds can sneak up even on sunny days!
If you're walking near dusk or dawn, keep an eye out for native wildlife like wallabies and echidnas 🦘
Whether you're after big views, tranquil trails, or simply a reason to enjoy a good coffee afterwards, these walks are perfect to enjoy during your stay at Sandpiper House.
Let us know your favourite – and tag us in your photos on socials! 📸
Looking for more local tips? Check out our blogs on:
Top 10 Bellarine Wineries to Visit
Pet-Friendly Beaches, Parks & Cafés
Happy exploring! 🌾
🐾 Paws & Play: Pet-Friendly Beaches, Parks & Cafés Near Sandpiper House on the Bellarine Peninsula
It all begins with an idea.
Planning a Bellarine getaway with your furry friend? At Sandpiper House, we know pets are part of the family 🐕💛—and you’ll find plenty of local spots where your dog can join the fun. From dog-friendly beaches and parks to welcoming cafés and pubs, the Bellarine Peninsula is packed with places to sniff out together!
🏖️ Dog-Friendly Beaches Close to Sandpiper House
🌊 Thirteenth Beach (Barwon Heads)
Off-leash: Year-round in designated zones
Vibe: A wild, windswept stretch of coast perfect for energetic pups who love space to run
Tip: Early mornings and sunsets are magical here!
🌞 Ocean Grove Main Beach
Off-leash: Year-round in marked areas
Vibe: Wide open sand, surf and plenty of doggo friends to meet
Location: Just a short drive from Sandpiper House
Note: Make sure your pup is under effective voice control
🐚 Point Richards Foreshore (Portarlington)
Off-leash: Certain sections
Vibe: Calm, shallow water for a splash and a peaceful beach walk
🌳 Sniff & Explore: Dog-Friendly Parks
🌿 Ocean Grove Nature Reserve
Leash required
Why Go: This beautiful native bush reserve is perfect for a morning stroll or a bird-watching wander
Bonus: It’s peaceful and shaded—great for cooler walks on warmer days
🐾 Bellarine Rail Trail
Leash required
Why Go: This scenic walking and cycling track winds through farmland, vineyards, and charming townships
Top Tip: Join the trail in Drysdale for a picturesque walk toward Queenscliff or Geelong
☕🐕 Sit, Sip & Stay Awhile: Dog-Friendly Cafés & Pubs
🦴 The Driftwood Café (Ocean Grove)
Vibe: Laid-back, great coffee, and a dog-friendly outdoor seating area
Pup Perk: Water bowls and pats provided!
Top Picks: Try the eggs benedict while your dog soaks up the sun
🍻 Queenscliff Brewhouse
Vibe: A dog-friendly bar and brewery with a large, partly covered beer garden
Pup Perk: They even offer non-alcoholic "doggie beer" for your furry companion
Note: A must-visit spot when in the area!
🏡 Pet-Friendly Comfort at Sandpiper House
At Sandpiper House, we’ve made it easy for both two-legged and four-legged guests to unwind:
🐾 Fully enclosed backyard for safe roaming
🏖️ Close to dog-friendly beaches & parks
🔥 Outdoor firepit & undercover BBQ for cozy evenings
🏊♀️ Private heated pool – just for the humans (sorry, pups!)
We’re proud to offer a getaway that includes your whole family – wagging tails and all!
Paw-sitive Tip: Always check for signage about local off-leash rules and bring those biodegradable poop bags 🧼🐶
Planning your stay? Let us know you’re bringing a dog and we’ll make sure everything’s ready for a pawesome time! 🐕💕
Top 10 Wineries to Visit Near Sandpiper House on the Bellarine Peninsula
It all begins with an idea.
Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just love a good drop in a beautiful setting, the Bellarine Peninsula is a wine lover’s paradise—and lucky for you, Sandpiper House is perfectly positioned in the heart of it all. With over 10 award-winning wineries within a 10-minute drive, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are our top 10 must-visit wineries nearby, with all the details you need to plan a fabulous day out—even when its cool outside!
1. Terindah Estate – Curlewis
Opening Hours: Cellar Door & The Deck: Wed–Sun, 10am–4pm. The Shed (Restaurant): Sat–Sun for lunch.
Dining: Offers seasonal modern Australian fare with stunning vineyard and bay views.
Wine Tasting: Available at the cellar door with a small tasting fee, redeemable on bottle purchase.
Highlights: Spectacular views over Port Phillip Bay and regular events and exhibitions.
Winter Appeal: Indoor dining with floor-to-ceiling windows and heaters on the deck.
2. Bellarine Estate – Drysdale
Opening Hours: Cellar Door & Smokehouse Restaurant: Thurs–Sun, 11am–5pm.
Dining: Home to the Bellarine Smokehouse with hearty, flavour-packed dishes including smoked meats, fish, and vegetarian options.
Wine Tasting: Complimentary tastings available.
Highlights: Known for its Pinot Noir and Shiraz. Also hosts live music events.
Winter Appeal: Cozy indoor dining with comfort food perfect for chilly days.
3. Scotchmans Hill – Drysdale
Opening Hours:
Cellar Door: Daily, 11am–4pm
Restaurant: Lunch Wed–Sun (12pm–4pm), Dinner Sat from 5:30pm
Dining: A refined bistro-style experience in a rustic setting, offering seasonal dishes using local produce. Beautiful views across the bay to the Melbourne skyline.
Price Range: Around $70–$100 for a two-course lunch for two (excluding drinks).
Wine Tasting: Two options:
Standard Tasting: $20pp (5 wines)
Premium Tasting: $30pp (6 premium wines)
Tasting fee waived with bottle purchase.
Highlights: James Halliday 5-star rated winery. Known for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Winter Appeal: Indoor restaurant with fireplaces and warm ambience, perfect for a leisurely long lunch.
4. Oakdene Vineyards – Wallington
Opening Hours: Cellar Door: Daily, 10am–4pm. Mr Grubb @ Oakdene Bistro: Daily for lunch, dinner Wed–Sat.
Dining: Casual bistro dining with a creative menu. Garden and indoor seating.
Wine Tasting: $10pp for guided tastings, redeemable on purchase.
Highlights: Unique art-filled grounds and eclectic decor. Try their Blue Shiraz and Pinot Gris.
Winter Appeal: Heated dining areas and fun artworks to explore between tastings.
5. Leura Park Estate – Curlewis
Opening Hours: Thurs–Sun, 10am–5pm
Dining: Known for gourmet woodfired pizzas, platters, and hearty dishes.
Wine Tasting: $5–$10pp, redeemable on bottle purchases.
Highlights: Sparkling wines, relaxed vibe, live music Sundays.
Winter Appeal: Fireside seating and a warm, vibrant indoor space.
6. Jack Rabbit Vineyard – Bellarine
Opening Hours: Cellar Door: Daily, 10am–5pm. Restaurant: Lunch Wed–Sun.
Dining: Award-winning a la carte restaurant plus a casual café-style House of Jack Rabbit.
Wine Tasting: Guided tastings available; fee redeemable on purchase.
Highlights: Stunning views over the bay. Standouts include their Pinot Noir and Blanc de Blancs.
Winter Appeal: Cozy restaurant with sweeping panoramic views, even on stormy days.
7. Yes Said the Seal (at Flying Brick Cider Co.) – Wallington
Opening Hours: Thurs–Sun, 11am–5pm
Dining: Part of the Flying Brick venue, offering creative bistro-style meals and shared plates.
Wine Tasting: Tasting paddles of premium wine and cider available.
Highlights: Boutique small-batch wines by Scotchmans Hill winemaker Robin Brockett.
Winter Appeal: Warm and contemporary indoor space with plenty of atmosphere.
8. McGlashan Estate – Wallington
Opening Hours: Fri–Sun, 11am–5pm
Dining: Light lunch platters featuring local produce and cheeses.
Wine Tasting: Free tastings at the cellar door.
Highlights: Known for their Shiraz and Pinot Gris. Eco vineyard cabins available.
Winter Appeal: Intimate and peaceful setting perfect for a quiet afternoon.
9. Banks Road Vineyard – Marcus Hill
Opening Hours: Fri–Sun, 11am–5pm
Dining: Small seasonal lunch menu and shared platters.
Wine Tasting: Complimentary tastings offered.
Highlights: Family-owned with hand-crafted small-batch wines.
Winter Appeal: Relaxed atmosphere with a cozy cellar door experience.
10. Curlewis Winery – Curlewis
Opening Hours: Limited, usually weekends – check ahead.
Dining: Cheese boards and small bites available.
Wine Tasting: Small-batch premium wines; tastings available.
Highlights: Boutique winery with a cult following for their Pinot Noir.
Winter Appeal: Intimate setting perfect for quiet tastings.
Tips for Visiting:
Many wineries recommend bookings, especially for lunch or larger groups.
If you're planning a winery-hopping day, consider arranging transport so everyone can enjoy a sip (or two!)
Want help curating the perfect wine tour day? I’m always happy to make suggestions based on your tastes or even help coordinate a driver.
Enjoy the wine, the views, and the memories. Cheers from Sandpiper House! 🍷
Cozy Adventures on the Bellarine: A Fun & Affordable Family Day Out!
It all begins with an idea.
Well its definitely getting cooler, and so if you are looking for an unforgettable family-friendly day on the Bellarine Peninsula during the cooler months I’ve got you covered! From a wholesome breakfast at Sandpiper House to exploring charming seaside towns, explore our Maritime history, and cozy cafés and restaurants, this itinerary is packed with must-do activities the whole family will love.
8:00 AM – A Wholesome Breakfast at Sandpiper House Start your day with a delicious homemade breakfast using the complimentary provisions at Sandpiper House. Enjoy fresh eggs, fresh home made bread, granola, and seasonal fruit while sipping juice or a warm cup of tea or coffee by the fireplace. This cozy start will prepare you for a day of relaxed adventure.
Cost: Free (included with your stay at Sandpiper House)
9:30 AM – Scenic Drive & Lighthouse Views at Point Lonsdale Take a scenic drive along the coast to Point Lonsdale Lighthouse. Step out for a brisk walk along the pier and watch the waves crash along the rugged shoreline. If it’s particularly chilly, grab a takeaway hot chocolate from a nearby café to keep warm.
Cost: Free (hot chocolate approx. $5 per person)
11:00 AM – Discover the Marine Wonders at Queenscliff Harbour Head to Queenscliff Harbour and watch the boats come and go from the marina. Visit the Queenscliff Maritime Museum, where the kids can learn about shipwrecks and the region’s fascinating maritime history. If you're feeling adventurous, take a guided tour inside the Queenscliff Fort to discover tunnels, cannons, and incredible views.
Cost: Maritime Museum – $25 family pass | Queenscliff Fort Tour – $50 family pass (optional)
12:30 PM – Hearty Lunch at a Family-Friendly Café Warm up with a cozy lunch at one of Queenscliff’s charming cafés. Panache Café & Creperie serves delicious crepes and hearty soups that are perfect for cool weather. Or, visit Rolling Pin Pies & Cakes for their award-winning pies—comfort food at its best!
Cost: Approx. $50–$70 for a family of four
2:00 PM – Indoor Fun at The Bellarine Railway Step back in time with a ride on The Bellarine Railway, an exciting experience for kids and adults alike. This heritage train offers scenic journeys through the countryside, and during cooler months, themed train rides such as the "Day Out With Thomas" and special steam train adventures keep families entertained.
Cost: Standard train rides start at $55 for a family pass (2 adults + 2 kids, extra child $10); special event prices may vary.
4:00 PM – Sweet Treats & Indoor Play at Scandinavian Ice Cream Co. After an afternoon on the railway, treat the family to a delicious dessert at the Scandinavian Ice Cream Co. in Queenscliff. If it’s too cold for ice cream, head to Van Loons Café for a warm slice of cake and a hot drink. Nearby, the Curlewis Mini Golf and indoor play area is a fantastic spot for kids to enjoy some fun without worrying about the weather.
Cost: Ice cream or café treats – approx. $30 | Mini Golf – $55 family pass
5:30 PM – Sunset Lookout from Your Car at The Bluff, Barwon Heads Before heading back, take a short drive to The Bluff Lookout in Barwon Heads. If the weather is brisk, stay warm in your car while enjoying the stunning sunset views over the coastline. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a relaxed, adventure-filled day.
Cost: Free
7:00 PM – Hearty informal Dinner at The Clifton Springs Golf Club Bistro, Clifton Springs. After a full day of exploring, warm up with a delicious meal in Clifton Springs. This stylish yet cozy venue offers a family-friendly menu featuring local produce, from gourmet burgers to comforting slow-cooked lamb shanks. Parents can unwind with a glass of Bellarine wine while the kids enjoy a hearty meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
Cost: Approx. $80–$100 for a family of four
8:30 PM – Relax & Unwind at Sandpiper House End your day by heading back to Sandpiper House for a cozy night in. Light the fireplace, watch a family movie, or enjoy a relaxing soak in the luxury heated pool before bed. There’s no better way to finish a perfect cool-weather getaway.
Cost: Free (included with your stay at Sandpiper House)
Plan Your Family Getaway to the Bellarine Peninsula The Bellarine Peninsula is packed with affordable, family-friendly activities all year round, making it an ideal destination even during cooler months. Book your stay at Sandpiper House and enjoy the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together.
Follow my blog for more travel tips and hidden gems around the Bellarine Peninsula!
5 Award-Winning Bellarine Restaurants That’ll Rock Your Taste Buds
It all begins with an idea.
The Bellarine Peninsula isn’t just about stunning coastal views and top-tier wineries—it’s also a paradise for food lovers. Whether you're celebrating something special or just pretending to be fancy for the night, these five award-winning fine dining restaurants will blow your taste buds away (and possibly your budget, but hey, you deserve it). Get ready to have a ‘grape’ time!
Tucked away in Connewarre, Moonah Restaurant is what happens when nature and fine dining have a love child. With a 16 Chef Hat rating (yes, that's a thing), this place takes ‘farm-to-table’ to the next level. Expect dishes so beautifully plated you'll hesitate to ruin them—until hunger wins. You’ll be ‘forking’ delighted with every bite.
Location: Connewarre, VIC
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Why Visit: It’s the highest-rated Chef Hat awardee in the region, which means you can impress your foodie friends by casually name-dropping it.
If you're looking for a stylish spot in Geelong West where the food is just as trendy as the décor, Tulip is your place. With 13 Chef Hats (seriously, how many hats do these chefs have?), this modern Australian hotspot is all about creative dishes, seasonal produce, and flavors that make you rethink everything you knew about food. It’s ‘thyme’ to treat yourself!
Location: Geelong West, VIC
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Why Visit: The food is as artistic as the walls, and the flavors are as bold as your decision to order that extra cocktail.
3. Jack Rabbit Vineyard Restaurant
Imagine sipping wine on a hill overlooking the ocean while enjoying some of the Bellarine’s finest local produce. That’s Jack Rabbit Vineyard Restaurant for you. Awarded Best Menu of Local Produce and Best Customer Service, they’ll make you feel like royalty—even if you're just there for the wine and Instagram pics. Hop to it and book a table!
Location: Bellarine, VIC
Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Why Visit: Stunning views, estate-grown wines, and food that’ll make you contemplate moving to the Bellarine permanently.
Perched among olive groves and vineyards (because regular dining settings are overrated), Merne at Lighthouse offers a communal dining experience that makes sharing actually enjoyable. The dishes are fresh, locally inspired, and so good that you may ‘accidentally’ take more than your fair share from the shared plates. Lettuce celebrate good food!
Location: Drysdale, VIC
Cuisine: Contemporary Australian
Why Visit: Beautiful setting, expertly crafted dishes, and a chance to prove you can be a team player when it comes to sharing food.
5. The Q Train
Who needs a regular restaurant when you can dine on a moving train? The Q Train combines fine dining with a scenic railway journey, serving up a multi-course degustation menu featuring the best local ingredients. You’ll feel like you’re in an Agatha Christie novel—minus the murder mystery and with much better food. Hop aboard for a ‘loco-motive’ dining adventure!
Location: Drysdale, VIC
Cuisine: Degustation, Modern Australian
Why Visit: It’s a train. With gourmet food. And wine. Need we say more?
Plan Your Gourmet Escape to the Bellarine Peninsula
Our luxurious holiday rental is the perfect home base for your fine dining adventure. After indulging in these top-tier restaurants, retreat to your private heated pool, sip wine in the landscaped gardens, and remind yourself why life is ‘so gouda.’
Book your stay now—because food this good deserves an equally luxurious place to nap afterward.
Follow my blog for more Bellarine travel tips and recommendations—it’s the ‘yeast’ I can do!