Bellarine Peninsula in Winter: Why It’s Worth Visiting

Last Updated: October 2026

The Bellarine Peninsula is one of Victoria’s most beautiful coastal destinations, with charming seaside villages, spectacular beaches, boutique wineries and fantastic local produce. Located just over an hour from Melbourne, it’s a popular destination for summer holidays, but is it worth visiting in winter?

We decided to find out during a winter weekend getaway. Unfortunately, our trip didn’t get off to the best start. We arrived on a cold, wet Friday evening, wondering whether we’d made a terrible decision! Thankfully, the weather improved the following morning, and we were able to spend the weekend exploring the peninsula’s beautiful coastline, picturesque towns and wonderful food and wine scene.

As it turned out, visiting the Bellarine Peninsula in winter was a fantastic idea. In fact, there were several things we loved about exploring this beautiful part of Victoria during the colder months.

Here’s why we think you should consider a winter escape to the Bellarine Peninsula too.

It’s So Quiet

One of the best things about visiting the Bellarine Peninsula in winter is how peaceful it feels. Without the summer crowds, the seaside towns slow down, the beaches are quieter and you can explore at a much more relaxed pace.

When we visited, we had no trouble finding parking, could enjoy cafés and restaurants without making reservations weeks in advance, and found accommodation much easier to book. Winter can also bring better accommodation deals, particularly outside weekends and school holidays.

The Beaches Are Wild and Beautiful

You probably won’t feel like going for a swim in the middle of winter! The water is chilly, the wind can be fierce and the surf can be rough. I certainly wasn’t brave enough to test the water! 🤣

But the beaches are just as beautiful, if not more so, during the colder months. They’re perfect for long coastal walks, watching the waves roll in and enjoying the scenery without the summer crowds. And if you’re a keen surfer, winter can bring some fantastic waves, provided conditions are safe.

You can spend time visiting the small seaside towns

The Bellarine Peninsula is full of cute seaside towns that are just waiting to be explored. They are all quite close to each other but each has its own unique character.

Queenscliff

First, a fishing village and then an important defence post during the first world war, the historical seaside town of Queenscliff is a great place to begin your trip to the Bellarine Peninsula. Queenscliff is famous for its Victorian heritage and its streets are lined with beautiful old buildings such as the Vue Grand Hotel, the library and the post office. It’s also home to many galleries, cafes, vintage shops and some interesting museums.

To learn more about the town’s history, take a guided tour of the Queenscliff fort. You’ll walk around the interior grounds, peep inside the haunted keep, and see many historical artefacts such as the incredible disappearing gun. The fort offers an excellent view out over the very dangerous channel known locally as “The Rip”. You might even get to see a pilot boat heading out to help a visiting container ship navigate one of the most dangerous bodies of water in the world.

The only way to visit the fort is to take a tour and it’s also the only way to get up close to the only black lighthouse in the Southern Hemisphere and the only working black lighthouse in the world!

To see a more modern side to Queenscliff, head down to the marina. There you can visit the forty-two-metre high observation tower that offers stunning views over Queenscliff, Port Philip, The Rip, Swan Bay and the Mornington Peninsula.

Point Lonsdale

The tiny town of Point Lonsdale is only a short five-minute drive from Queenscliff. It was my favourite place on the peninsula because it’s so pretty. As you can see below, it’s definitely a photographer’s paradise.

Point Lonsdale might be all about the beach but it’s also enjoyable in winter. Take a walk out along the pier and at low tide, walk along the beach to check out the rock pools and the impressive rock formations beneath the lighthouse. You can also take a tour of the lighthouse to learn about the local history.

Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove

Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove are separated by the Barwon River and both have high streets that are full of cafes, restaurants and speciality shops.

If you’re into surfing, grab your board and tackle some of the waves at one of the many beautiful beaches that are nearby.

Clifton Springs

Clifton Springs is a very sleepy town. Its main attractions are its beautiful coastal views, its steep cliffs and its sandy beaches. Its old pier (or what remains of it) is also a great spot for sunset photos.

Looking for more adventures near Melbourne? The Bellarine Peninsula is just one of many fantastic escapes from Victoria’s capital. Check out our best day trips from Melbourne for more inspiration, including beautiful coastlines, national parks and picturesque country towns.

You can follow the Bellarine Taste Trail

If you’re a foodie then this is totally worth doing; it involves a lot of eating and drinking! Pick up a Bellarine Taste Trail map from any of the visitor centres on the Peninsula or from your hotel. The trail takes you to forty-seven places that sell local produce. You’ll discover cheeses, olives, chocolates, mussels, wines, ciders and much more. Enjoy!

Enjoy Wine Tasting at Bellarine Peninsula Wineries

The Bellarine Peninsula is perfect for growing cool climate wines and it’s one of the largest wine regions in Victoria. There are many wineries to head to for tasting on the Peninsula. One not to be missed is Jack Rabbits Vineyard because not only is their wine fabulous but the views across to Melbourne from above the vines are spectacular.

With its eclectic decor and award-winning wines, Oakdene vineyards is another favourite of ours. At Oakdene, the cellar door is an upside-down house! Their wine is pretty tasty and very affordable too, so be sure to stock up on a few bottles for later!

Visit Local Breweries and Distilleries

If beer or cider is more your thing, don’t worry, there are many options for you too. Head to the Flying Brick Cider co. for a cider tasting paddle or to the Queenscliff Brewhouse for some craft beer tasting. With over two hundred to choose from, it’s a really tough decision!

The Whiskery in Bellarine is worth checking out for a taste of their very own gin called Teddy & The Fox. What’s better than a Gin and Tonic after a long day of exploring!

Tip: If you are going to try a few wineries, breweries and the distillery, be sure to organise a designated driver. Don’t drink and drive!

Where is the Bellarine Peninsula?

The Bellarine Peninsula is halfway between Melbourne and the world famous Great Ocean Road. It takes an hour and a half to drive there from the CBD but you can also get there by V-line train. We recommend driving if possible so that you can explore every corner of the peninsula at your own pace.

Where to eat on the Bellarine Peninsula?

Annie’s Provedore

The best way to start your day is by having an awesome breakfast at the rustic Annie’s Provedore in Barwon Heads. It’s seriously one of the best breakfasts we’ve ever had! They also make pretty good coffee too, which for us Melburnians is super important. If you want to purchase some local produce then this is also the place to do it.

Noble Rot Wine Store and bar

Noble Rot Wine Store and Bar sells a great selection of local and imported wines which you can pair with their grazing tapas menu or their platters. The atmosphere is casual and the Noble Rot is extremely popular with locals.

Jack Rabbit Vineyard

With spectacular views across the bay, Jack Rabbit Vineyard is one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most scenic places to enjoy a meal.

There are two dining options: the award-winning Jack Rabbit Restaurant, offering contemporary à la carte dining, and the more relaxed House of Jack Rabbit café, perfect for a casual brunch or lunch.

Whichever you choose, the panoramic views across the water are a highlight, making this a wonderful place to enjoy good food and a glass of local wine.

Check the Jack Rabbit Vineyard website for current menus and opening hours. Bookings are recommended, particularly on weekends.

Best Time to Visit the Bellarine Peninsula

The Bellarine Peninsula is a wonderful destination year-round, but each season offers something different. Summer is perfect for swimming, beach holidays and outdoor activities, although it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

Spring and autumn are lovely for coastal walks, cycling and exploring the region’s wineries, with generally milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

However, don’t overlook winter! While the weather can be chilly, wet and windy, it’s a fantastic time to enjoy peaceful beaches, cosy cafés, cellar doors and charming seaside villages without the summer crowds. As we discovered, you don’t need sunshine every day to enjoy the Bellarine Peninsula!

Where to stay on the Bellarine Peninsula?

Point Lonsdale Guest House – Our choice

The old Point Lonsdale Guest House is a stone’s throw from the Point Lonsdale lighthouse and its pier. In operation since 1884, this guesthouse offers warm and cosy accommodation, either in the guest house or in the motel right behind. It’s nothing fancy but being able to get out of bed and stroll across the road to watch the sunrise from the pier was a real plus for us. Click here for the latest prices.

Circa 1902 Queenscliff

A characterful heritage property in central Queenscliff, ideal for couples wanting to walk to cafés, shops and restaurants.

Vue Grand Hotel

A grand historic hotel with Victorian architecture, perfect for readers looking for something a little more special.

Practical Information for Visiting the Bellarine Peninsula

Getting there: The Bellarine Peninsula is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours’ drive from central Melbourne, depending on traffic and where you’re heading. Travel via the Princes Freeway towards Geelong, then continue to the peninsula’s coastal towns.

Getting around: Having your own car is the easiest way to explore the beaches, villages, wineries and other attractions. You can also catch a V/Line train from Melbourne to Geelong and continue by bus, although public transport is less convenient for visiting multiple locations.

How long to stay: While the Bellarine Peninsula is possible as a day trip from Melbourne, we’d recommend spending at least two nights. A weekend gives you enough time to explore the coastline, visit a few wineries and enjoy the local food scene without rushing.

What to pack in winter: Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes. The coastal wind can be particularly chilly, even on sunny days, so it’s worth packing a scarf and a warm coat.

Winter opening hours: Some smaller cafés, restaurants and attractions operate reduced hours during the quieter months, particularly midweek. Check opening times and book ahead if there’s somewhere you’re especially keen to visit.

Ferry connections: If you’re travelling from the Mornington Peninsula, the Searoad Ferry connects Sorrento with Queenscliff in approximately 40 minutes and carries both cars and passengers. Check the official ferry website for timetables and fares.

Why stop at one peninsula? From Queenscliff, you can catch the ferry across Port Phillip Bay to Sorrento and continue exploring the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Discover our favourite things to do on the Mornington Peninsula, from spectacular coastal walks and beaches to wineries and charming seaside to

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