Local Guide: New Mornington Peninsula Stays

The Mornington Peninsula is one of Australia’s most geographically blessed regions. Situated south of Melbourne where the bush rubs shoulders with the Bass Strait, the Peninsula is bound by sandy beaches and mighty rock formations. Further inland, these coastal landscapes give way to orchards, olive groves and vineyards well-suited to the cool climate. Tourists are seduced by the scenic walks and wine tastings, and of course a weekend here isn’t complete without stopping by the Assembly Label store in Mornington, the region’s largest seaside village. Over the past year a number of new boutique stays and renovated hotels have opened across the Peninsula, and here we share a few of our favourites.

Martha Beach House

Martha Beach House is your very own Mediterranean villa in the Mornington Peninsula. A few sandy footsteps away from Martha Cove marina and the beach, the sprawling property is the epitome of laidback luxury, starting with the master bedroom, ensuite and dressing room that would feel perfectly at home in a hotel spa. While you’d be forgiven for fighting over the main suite there are three more bedrooms with living spaces split across floors, all clad in stone, rattan, rich textiles and brass fixtures. Martha really is a dream holiday destination — in summer, the backyard swimming pool is its most sought-after feature, and come winter the fireplace becomes the heart of the house.

The Continental Sorrento

The 1875 seaside landmark formally known as ‘the Conti’ has reopened, and it’s brought a slice of Sorrento, Italy to the Mornington Peninsula. Situated on a hill overlooking Port Phillip Bay, The Continental Sorrento has undergone a renaissance following a head-turning restoration that reverentially retained the hotel’s Victorian and Art Deco character while redefining it as a resort destination with restaurants, boutiques, bars, event spaces and a bathhouse — more on that later. Old-world glamour is reimagined for a new era with the addition of an Amalfi Coast-inspired pool deck, works by a roll call of Australian artists and dining experiences to suit every epicurean desire, most notably the seafood-led Audrey’s.

Aurora Spa & Bathhouse

If you’re dreaming of escaping to a wellness retreat in the Swiss Alps, may we suggest visiting the spa at The Continental Sorrento. Inspired by European water therapies, Aurora is a subterranean bathhouse with an avant-garde circuit of contrasting thermal experiences including hydrotherapy pools, a timber-lined Nordic sauna, sensory showers, aromatherapy steam room, magnesium float room, a salt suite and glacial mist room (which spectacularly recreates the Finnish tradition of rolling in the snow after a sauna). And when you’re done with all that socialising and bathing, there’s a menu of massages, facials and other health-giving treatments to choose from, all taking place in private rooms.

Camillo

Neighbouring Sorrento is Blairgowrie, a coastal town that’s home to Camillo, a new three-level, three-bedroom stay created “in partnership with local and legendary creatives”. This luxurious hideaway is designed for groups of friends and family, and by the end of a visit you’ll have found hidden swimming spots, a favourite place to nap and a deep sense of repose. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with negronis at the bar and a hamper with produce from all over the Peninsula, which should be enjoyed on one of the decks, by the firepit, or in the outdoor tub. Displayed throughout the property are 25 original artworks, and should your eyes wander, they’ll find breathtaking views of the ocean.

Cassis

Immerse yourself in wine country at Cassis, a recently renovated property in the rural town of Red Hill. Cassis invites you to choose from beautifully appointed villas inspired by the simplicity of life in the French countryside, and as such the interiors balance welcoming rustic touches with indulgent modern comforts. The private residences boast mineral plunge pools, fireplaces, well-equipped kitchenettes and views of Lindenderry Estate Vineyard. Your hosts at Cassis will have anticipated your every whim, whether you need a bike, a picnic hamper or in-house massage, and should you desire to wander further afield, some of the region’s best restaurants and wineries are at your doorstep.