6 Scenic Nature Walks on the Bellarine Peninsula (Perfect for Cooler Weather!)
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! 🌾