Holiday houses in Sorrento

One of the hottest food and wine regions in Victoria — home to Australia’s most innovative growers and producers — the Mornington Peninsula is a short drive from Melbourne, which makes it a popular weekend getaway for locals. At the center of it is the town of Sorrento, a laid-back seaside community popular for its calm crescent-shaped bay beach, as well as powerful surf along its ocean beaches, including postcard-perfect Diamond Bay. Something else to hold your attention: Sorrento’s historic limestone buildings are home to cutting-edge art galleries, wineries, and forward-thinking restaurants, with antiques and homewares stores in between.

Because of its proximity to Melbourne, Sorrento is a popular coastal getaway year-round, particularly during Australian school holidays and summer (December through February), when temperatures sit around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with plenty of sunshine. Due to its location in southern Australia, expect cool water temperatures regardless of the time of year you visit; in summer, the sea temperature peaks at 63 degrees, dropping to a brisk 55 in winter (June through August). Spring (September through November) and fall (March through May) are extremely pleasant on the temperature front, but can include rainy days, so bring an umbrella or waterproof jacket.

Sorrento–Portsea Artists’ Trail

At the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula lies Sorrento’s westerly neighbor, the town of Portsea. Since 2004, an arts-driven coastal trail has linked the two destinations. This scenic stretch of the continent has inspired some of Australia’s most famous creative talents. The track takes you to the places they would sit and paint or draw, with reproductions of their notable works displayed en route. Along the way, explore clifftop gardens and hidden beaches.

Queenscliff Ferry

Zip over to the other side of Port Phillip Bay to spend a few hours in the coastal towns along the Great Ocean Road. The Sorrento Pier is the departure point for the 45-minute ferry to Queenscliff. Once you alight, you’re at the heart of Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, known for its grand Victorian-era buildings and shimmering harbor.

Wine Country

More than three dozen wineries are scattered along the Mornington Peninsula, many of them a short drive from Sorrento. This cool-climate growing region is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but there are plenty of other varietals to explore. In between tastings, find farmers markets, fruit orchards, cheese mongers, and a steady stream of restaurants showing off the local bounty.