Summer on the Mornington Peninsula doesn’t always require a towel and sunscreen. Some of the region's most rewarding experiences happen inland, where the vineyard quiet settles in, the cellar doors pour cold Chardonnay at leisure, and the day's rhythm is shaped by long lunches rather than tide times.
If you're planning a Peninsula escape that goes beyond the coast, this guide highlights the experiences worth making time for – with Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill as your natural starting point.
1. Begin in Wine Country
Summer is the season for slow tastings and vineyard strolls. Lindenderry Estate’s Cellar Door offers a chance to sample estate-grown Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, crafted with minimal intervention by winemaker Barney Flanders. The outdoor tables offer vineyard views and a welcome escape from the midday heat. Walk-ins are welcome, though summer weekends see a steady flow of visitors who prefer to settle in for a few hours.
Further afield, explore the gardens at Ten Minutes by Tractor, enjoy the olive groves and seasonal dishes at Montalto, or visit Main Ridge Estate – one of the Peninsula’s oldest producers, known for wines with age and character.
A word on summer planning: book ahead. Cellar doors that welcomed walk-ins in April turn away guests by noon in December.
2. Let the Kitchen Set the Pace
At Lindenderry’s Dining Room, the atmosphere is quietly refined. Two AGFG hats reflect a focus on quality rather than formality. Executive Chef Nick McGonigal draws on his experience at The Ledbury in London to showcase produce from the region, presented with just the right amount of flair.
The dining room itself looks out to vineyard views through French doors and windows, while the wine list favours regional labels made with care.
Just moments away from our Mornington Peninsula accommodation, you’ll find other distinct establishments:
- Pt. Leo Estate pairs three-course dining with sculpture park views.
- Rare Hare at Jackalope delivers elevated bistro food on a terrace built for long Sunday sessions.
- The Portsea Hotel captures sunset over the bay from its upstairs dining room.
3. Walk the Gardens
34 acres of established gardens, vineyard rows, and meandering paths make Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill’s grounds worth exploring. The property was designed for wandering – a space that invites you to slow down between the cellar door and your room.
The vineyard itself lines the iconic driveway, while quiet paths lead past hedging, native plantings, and sun-dappled lawns. In summer, the canopy provides natural shade, and the rows create a particular quiet that feels removed from anything urgent. Mornings suit this best, when the temperature sits several degrees cooler than the coast, and the only soundtrack is birdsong.
These stunning landscapes are just one of the many reasons Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill is placed among sought-after wedding venues on the Mornington Peninsula.
4. Soak at Thermal Springs
The Peninsula’s geothermal springs are a surprising highlight in summer. The contrast of warm water and warm air is unexpectedly soothing, offering complete stillness and restorative relaxation.
Peninsula Hot Springs offers over 70 pools, from hilltop views to cave soaks. Alba Thermal Springs is more serene: 20 pools, sculptural design, and a restaurant where you can dine in your robe.
If you’re seeking conference venues on the Mornington Peninsula for your next corporate event, a hot spring dip is perfect for a taste of tranquillity after a long day.
5. Make Time for Cultural Quiet
For something slower, explore McClelland Sculpture Park & Gallery – home to contemporary Australian sculpture across open parklands.
Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens offers a challenge, unique photo opportunities, and a cool reprieve under the hedges, while Red Hill’s back roads are dotted with farm gates selling just-picked produce, artisan cheese, and fresh flowers.
Stay Where You Can Unwind Completely
Lindenderry is intentionally low-scale: just 40 rooms set among 34 acres of vineyards and gardens. There’s space to breathe, and a sense of ease that carries through from morning coffee to evening wine. The cellar door, restaurant, gardens, and accommodation are all on-site, so there’s no need to drive once you arrive.
Complete with flexible function rooms on the Mornington Peninsula, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill offers a rare combination of stillness and sophistication. Whether you're here for a romantic retreat, a summer group retreat, or a thoughtful corporate gathering, every detail invites you to slow down and savour the moment.
Book your Mornington Peninsula stay at Lancemore and experience summer, redefined.
