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Melburnians have been making the drive down the Princes Hwy (Geelong Rd) to the seaside villages along the Bellarine Peninsula for more than a century. It's known for family-friendly and surf beaches, historic towns, and wonderful cool-climate wineries.
As well as linking up with the Great Ocean Road, it's just a short ferry trip from here over to the Mornington Peninsula.
The Wathaurong people, who resided here and along the coast to Lorne for over 25,000 years, are the traditional custodians of the Bellarine Peninsula.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Bellarine Peninsula.
Museum
Home to the last lifeboat to serve the Rip (the treacherous stretch of water linking Port Phillip Bay to Bass Strait) , this recommended museum has displays on the intriguing current-day pilot-boat process, shipwrecks, lighthouses and steamships. Head out the back to see the heritage-listed 1895 boat shed, with paintings that served as a record of passing ships in the bay.
Historic Site
Queencliff's fort was first used as a coastal defence in 1882 to protect Melbourne from a feared Russian invasion. It remained a base until 1946, and was then used as the Army Staff College until late 2012; today it functions as the Defence Department's archive. Tours take in the military museum (not always accessible), the magazine, cells and the twin lighthouses (including the iconic black lighthouse). It's a defence area, so bring ID for entry and arrive 10 minutes early.
Gallery
Within a heritage building on the main street, this quality gallery focuses on the work of contemporary Australian artists, including pieces by Indigenous artists.
Distillery
Set up by a local family who know their stuff, this gin distillery produces everything on-site and has a tasting room to sample the goods, accompanied by pizzas and local-produce platters. The single-malt whiskies are maturing in the barrel for a little longer, but it's definitely a product to keep your eye on.
Aquarium
While this education centre is aimed at schoolchildren, it's worth popping in to have a gawk at the local species that live in the sea and lakes. Display tanks often contain seahorses, fish and the highly venomous blue-ringed octopus, and there's a touch pool where you can handle aquatic creatures. It's only open school holidays, and for feedings on Monday morning – but call ahead to confirm.
Winery
Set over 60 hectares is this producer of 'maritime climate' pinot noir, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and pinot gris. As well as tastings, you can do a 1½-hour Segway tour ($80) of the vineyards, which includes a glass of wine, a pizza or a shared platter. Come Sunday for live music; also keep an eye out for its music festivals.
Museum
This small museum on the main strip is dedicated to the area's rich local history. Exhibits change every few months, but its catalogued historical photographs are always there to peruse. Check the website for upcoming events and details of its self-guided historical tour of Queenscliff.
Gallery
A lovely space inside a historic stone church (c 1868), this worthwhile gallery exhibits works by contemporary Australian artists who work on paper. Lithography is the main focus, and all works are available for purchase.
Lighthouse
Take a tour to the top of this atmospheric – and still operational – lighthouse, which dates to 1902. Tours run every 30 minutes.