MORNINGTON

Once a remote seaside village, these days Mornington is a fast growing residential area but still manages to retain a country atmosphere, which is best reflected in its pedestrian-friendly shopping centre, in Mornington Park and at the attractive boat harbour.

Settlement began in the 1840s and many fine buildings still line its main streets, including the residences of Beleura Hill and The Grand and Royal hotels. A coastline of red bluffs with several lookout points characterises the town. It is the Peninsula's largest centre, denoted by fine eating places and a regional art gallery.

Mornington will set your sense alight with its well-earned reputation for gastronomic delights, picturesque scenery and welcoming seaside village atmosphere.

Your taste buds will be truly tantalised by the dozens of trendy street side cafes, bars, restaurants, bakeries and cake shops while you spend time exploring the array of boutique shops and walking along the pier and sheltered beaches.

Wednesdays are a special treat with the weekly craft market adding lots of colour and excitement to Main Street.

Popular with day-trippers from Melbourne for more than 100 years, a growing number of B&B’s and other forms of accommodation mean there’s even more reason to stay longer and enjoy everything the historic seaside village has to offer.

Things to do

· Mornington Peninsula Regional Art Gallery, Dunns Road.
· Mornington Tourist Railway, Mt Eliza Park
· Antiques and craft - Main Street and Barkly Street
· Old Post Office Museum, Main St
· Schnapper Point Harbour
· Main Street market - every Wednesday
· Mornington Racing Club - Racecourse Rd.
· National Antique Centre - Tyabb Rd

Major events

· Mornington Cup Racing Carnival - February
· Mornington Main Street Food,  Wine & Performing Arts Festival - October
· Ti-Tree Festival - 1st weekend in November
· Australia Day Festival - January
· Mornington Racecourse Market - 2nd Sunday of every month