What better way is there to escape the Melbourne city than to venture across the bay to the idyllic coastal township of Portarlington?
There’s just the right amount of fresh seaside air, friendly village charm and boutique wineries at our doorstep!
To make the most out of your getaway we have prepared the ultimate three-day itinerary for your stay on the Bellarine Peninsula.
Day 1: The Whiskery | Bennetts on Bellarine | Portarlington Grand Hotel Bistro
Your weekend escape all begins with you and your friends/loved ones departing Docklands via Port Phillip Ferries at 9:40 AM. After an exhilarating ferry ride where you might even be lucky enough to spot dolphins splashing about, you arrive in Portarlington at 10:50 AM to be collected in our courtesy bus and checked in at the Portarlington Grand Hotel.
We’ll take care of your luggage at reception while you spend the day exploring the beautiful Bellarine region.
First up visit The Whiskery at Bellarine Distillery for a cheeky pre-lunch beverage and tasty nibbles in their gorgeously renovated rustic farm shed.
Inside there’s an enticing fireplace to cosy up to and if the sun’s shining the enchanting gardens and relaxing deck are equally a treat to sit and sip on a cocktail, gin or whisky.
For a deliciously laid-back lunch set amongst the impressive views of the Bellarine, pop over to Bennetts on Bellarine and toast the first day of your getaway with a glass of locally made wine and a tasting board that will make your mouth water.
The PGH team suggest trying the highly recommended Tastings Boards. You won’t be disappointed!
After your fabulous day savouring the delights of the Bellarine, return to the Portarlington Grand Hotel for an afternoon nap in one of our beautifully designed rooms or take a refreshing walk along the beach that’s a stone’s throw away.
By dinner time you will be recharged and ready to indulge in one of our delightful meals like our chicken parma or dig into a dish of our famous Portarlington mussels in our classically designed and comfortable Bistro.
Day 2: Portarlington Grand Hotel | Portarlington Bakehouse | Pier Street Café | Portarlington Mussel Tours | Terindah Estate | Jack Rabbit
This is your day to experience it all!
Wake up and enjoy a heartwarming cup of tea or coffee on the iconic balcony of your beautifully refurbished room at Portarlington Grand Hotel. Then wander down the street to enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many great options a short stroll away.
The team at Portarlington Bakehouse make an amazingly light and buttery croissant and rich coffee if you’re after a quick snack or maybe venture down the hill to the Pier Street Café for a more substantial sit-down affair.
Once you’re full and over the morning food coma, get out and explore the wonderful attractions of the Bellarine Peninsula.
The team at Portarlington Mussel Tours would love to take you out on their newly refurbished mussel trawler to show you their booming Portarlington Mussel industry.
You’ll be part of the mussel haul and dine on the freshest catch straight from the ocean, cooked on board with the most spectacular flavours while also sipping a selection of the Bellarine’s best beverages.
If you’ve energy to burn and are still on a high from zooming around the bay, why not continue your love affair with food and wine and visit the team at Terindah Estate for a glass of local wine while soaking in the incredible and relaxing views.
Then to top off your perfect day, venture to Jack Rabbit for another sampling of homegrown wines and an incredible fine dining experience at their outstanding restaurant that is known for being the gastronomic showpiece of the Bellarine Peninsula.
If you’re not completely exhausted and full to the brim when retreating back to your room at the Portarlington Grand Hotel, stop by the front bar for a well-deserved nightcap.
Day 3: Portarlington Grand Hotel | The Q Train
Put the cherry on top of a wonderful weekend away!
Make the most of your final day with a tasty breakfast at our hotel before experiencing Australia’s premier rail restaurant, The Q Train, for an amazing and unique degustation 5-course luncheon.
Indulge in a spectacular dining journey unlike any other while savouring the picturesque coastal views of Queenscliffe, Swan Bay and the Bellarine Peninsula.
After the Q Train, board the ferry to return to your everyday world with unforgettable memories and perhaps a bag full of Bellarine produce to remember us by and show off to your friends!
Finally, wave farewell to the Jewel of the Bellarine as you depart the dock. We hope to see you again soon!
