I’ve decided to include a map of Melbourne for those of you who aren’t so familiar with it. On the map, you’ll notice Port Phillip Bay, and if you look towards the bottom of the bay, you’ll find Peninsula Hot Springs marked. That’s very close to where we’re currently staying for our short getaway. It’s a tranquil retreat nestled in the natural beauty of the Mornington Peninsula.

If you trace your eyes halfway up the map, you’ll spot Berwick. That’s where I live, a charming suburb that’s just under an hour’s drive from the hot springs. The distance between Berwick and my current location provides a good sense of Melbourne’s vastness. Despite being in the same metropolitan area, the journey covers a significant stretch of diverse landscapes, from bustling suburbs to serene coastal views.

This map not only helps orient you geographically but also offers a glimpse into the scale of Melbourne, a city that stretches across a wide area, encompassing everything from urban hubs to peaceful, nature-filled retreats like the one we’re enjoying right now.

Mornington Peninsula is celebrated for its cool climate wines and is home to numerous stunning wineries. Australia’s wine industry enjoys global recognition, thanks in part to migrants who settled across the country, bringing their winemaking expertise to various regions. Their blend of ancient and modern techniques has greatly enhanced the quality of Australia’s dry table wines.

In Victoria, several regions are known for producing cool climate wines, including the Yarra Valley, King Valley, Alpine Valley, Pyrenees, Macedon Ranges, Heathcote, Grampians, and Mornington Peninsula. I’ve already explored many of these areas in this travel blog, visiting their wineries.

Today, I’ve added another favourite winery to my list. Crittenden at Mornington Peninsula.

Peter and I stumbled upon this gorgeous winery today while driving at the foot of Red Hill—Crittenden Estate, one of the first family-owned and operated wineries on the Mornington Peninsula.

Visiting the Crittenden Wine Centre turned out to be one of our highlights of our day.

As Peter and I walked in, we were immediately greeted by the warm smile of the staff member, whose genuine enthusiasm for his craft was evident from the start. The atmosphere inside was inviting, with large windows allowing natural light to flood the room and offer panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the picturesque lake beyond.

We struck up a conversation with him. His passion was contagious, and we found ourselves eager to learn more about the winemaking process and the different varieties produced right there on the estate.

The tasting itself was a delight. We sampled a range of wines, each one accompanied by an explanation of its unique characteristics and the care that went into its production.

We were made to feel comfortable and engaged as he answered all our questions and offered personal recommendations based on our preferences.

As we enjoyed the wines, we took some time to browse the products for sale. The shelves were lined with beautifully packaged bottles, gourmet treats, and wine accessories, making it hard to resist picking up a few items to take home.

The ambiance was relaxed, yet refined, with the chatter of other visitors and the soft clinking of glasses adding to the charm of the experience.

After the tasting, we decided to take up the staff’s suggestion to stroll around the lake. The peacefulness of the surroundings, made it a lovely experience.

We felt a strong connection to the place, not just because of the quality of the wines, but also because of the warmth and hospitality we were greeted with.

As we left, Peter and I both agreed that the Crittenden Wine Centre had exceeded our expectations. We felt like we had spent time not just at a winery, but at a place where passion, tradition, and a genuine love for the land and its produce came together to create something special.

It was the kind of experience that leaves you with a smile on your face and a desire to return, and we might just do that by visiting their Stillwater Restaurant or staying in one of their lakeside villas next time. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend stopping by. They’re open seven days a week.

After our delightful visit to Crittenden Estate, Peter and I made our way to the Portsea Hotel for a long, lazy lunch.

Nestled on the stunning coastline of Port Phillip Bay, the Portsea Hotel has been a beloved destination since it was established in 1876.

Its historical charm is complemented by modern amenities, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the stunning views.

As we arrived, we were drawn to the hotel’s diverse offerings.

On a less windy day, the Beer Garden would be lively with energy, while the Garden Terrace offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a relaxed outdoor setting.

Inside, the restaurant had a welcoming ambiance, with the aroma of freshly cooked meals wafting through the air. The bar and wood-fired pizza kitchen added to the variety of options available, catering to all tastes.

We chose a cozy spot inside, right by the windows, where we could take in the stunning views of the Portsea pier.

The rhythmic waves crashing against the shore created a dynamic backdrop as we settled in for our meal. The atmosphere was relaxed, with the natural beauty of the bay enhancing the experience.

For lunch, we both decided on the Ricotta Gnocchi, served with a side salad of Rocket and Parmesan. The dish was an absolute delight—each bite of the soft, pillowy gnocchi was bursting with flavour, perfectly complemented by the fresh, peppery rocket and the nutty richness of the Parmesan. It was the kind of meal that lingers in your memory, not just for its taste but for the entire experience of enjoying it in such a beautiful setting.

As we lingered over our meal, savouring every bite and taking in the panoramic views, it was easy to see why the Portsea Hotel has been a beloved spot for so many years.

The combination of history, stunning location, and exceptional food made our visit truly memorable.

We left feeling satisfied and rejuvenated, already thinking about our next visit.

There’s something truly special about being treated to long lunches like this one. In the midst of our busy lives, it’s a luxury to slow down, savour delicious food, and simply enjoy each other’s company without rushing. The act of indulging in a leisurely meal, especially in such a beautiful setting, feels like a refreshing pause—a chance to unwind, share stories, and appreciate the moment.

It’s not just about the food, though that’s certainly a highlight; it’s the entire experience of being able to relax, take in the surroundings, and let time drift by without any pressing concerns. These kinds of lunches serve as a gentle reminder of the importance of balance—of making time for joy, connection, and the simple pleasures that make life richer. They’re the moments we carry with us, long after the plates are cleared, bringing a sense of contentment and gratitude that lingers.

On our way back to our Airbnb, we decided to make a couple of stops. First, we visited the Sorrento Long Pier, soaking in the fresh sea breeze. The pier had a tranquil charm, offering a peaceful pause before heading back.

Our next stop was a bakery in Rosebud, where we picked up a few treats for the evening. Overall, it was a lovely, relaxing day—the kind that reminds us how important it is to find moments of calm and enjoyment amidst our often hectic lives. It felt like a perfect balance, a day well spent savouring life’s simple pleasures.