The Five Best Walks on the Mornington Peninsula
With sunnier days just around the corner, we thought we’d share our insider tips for the five best walks on the Mornington Peninsula. Whether you’re after a slow stroll or serious hike, Camillo House is the perfect base for exploring the region’s unforgettable sights on foot.
Red Hill Rail Trail
The old railway line between Merricks and Red Hill used to carry fresh apples on to Hastings where they were then sent to market in Melbourne. Now, it’s a beautiful trail to meander along under a canopy of trees. Take in scenic views of wineries, rolling paddocks and vantage points where you can look across to Western Port Bay and Phillip Island. The trail is also dog-friendly, so you can bring along your four-legged friend!
Starting point: 155 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South
Distance: 6.5 km one way
Bushrangers Bay Walk
Forming part of the Two Bays Walk, this track takes you to the ruggedly striking Bushrangers Bay – often with a side of Kangaroo spotting along the way! Start at Cape Schanck Lighthouse and stroll along clifftops, through coastal scrub before descending into Bushrangers Bay. Although beautiful, Bushrangers Bay has unpredictable rips and rocky reef, so stay landbound.
Starting point: 420 Cape Schanck Road, Cape Schanck
Distance: 5.4 km return
The Coastal Walk
Stretching along the southern side of the Mornington Peninsula, The Coastal Walk, offers spectacular views of surf, sand, tidal rock pools and dense coastal scrub. Walk the entire length from Cape Schanck to Point Nepean or a smaller section from Camillo’s doorstep.
Starting point: From Camillo, turn right at the end of our driveway and walk about 100 metres on Ritchie Avenue to access the path to Bridgewater Bay.
Distance: The full walk is 30kms but you can also walk smaller sections with lots of entry points along the way
Arthur’s Seat Circuit Walk
Rising above the Mornington Peninsula (and seen from Camillo’s upstairs retreat), Arthur’s Seat gives picture-perfect views of the bay and Port Phillip Heads. On a clear day, you can even see the city skyline!
This lovely, easy walk loops you past the Seawinds Gardens, Matthew Flinders Cairn, William Ricketts sculptures, all the major lookouts and the Seawinds Nursery Volunteers Indigenous Garden. Just follow the Crimson Rosella symbols to stay on track!
Starting point: Seawinds Entry Road, Arthur’s Seat
Distance: 1.8km circuit walk
Quarantine Station Walk
With sprawling lawns, almost 50 historical heritage listed buildings and stunning views across the bay to Queenscliff, this easy walk around the Point Nepean Quarantine Station is as fascinating as it is scenic. To explore further, you can continue on to Gunner’s Cottage (a gentle 1.6km walk) and Fort Nepean.
Starting point: Coleman Road, Portsea, Victoria
Distance: 2km circuit
Photography: Jane Fitzgerald