Geelong and The Bellarine, Victoria, Australia

Geelong has all the benefits of a sizeable city but with the relaxed atmosphere of coastal country. Facing north on Corio Bay, Geelong boasts a glorious waterfront precinct, sophisticated dining options and all kinds of entertainment on tap. There is a lively calendar of events and the region is perhaps the Australian wine industry's best-kept secret.

The charming nearby towns and villages of the Bellarine offer a huge range of things to do. The Bellarine Peninsula faces Port Phillip Bay on its northern and eastern shores and Bass Strait on the south, so water activities abound, ranging from gentle bay beaches that are great for families and fishing to sensational surf beaches and world-class scuba diving sites.

The Bellarine has been building a reputation as a food and wine destination and the Bellarine Taste Trail brings together many of the gourmet offerings of the region including wineries, restaurants and cafes and producers of beer, fresh produce, goats cheese, olive oil and seafood.

Highlights

Wallington

Adventure Park

Super charge you summer at Victoria's biggest theme park! Awesome family fun all day long, Adventure Park Geelong is home to some of the coolest water rides in Australia Victoria's hottest and biggest theme park, Adventure Park, located just 10 minutes from Geelong boasts 21 exciting rides and attractions, perfect for the whole family! Just some of the ways you can make a gigantic splash and enjoy the unlimited rides all day long include: • Raft the roaring rapids on The River Torrent Lazy River, with twisting tides and swirling gauntlets along a tropical river oasis • Speed down head first and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush of the Six Lane Aqua Racer, a speed slide for the serious thrill-seekers which can take you up to 40km per hour • Race down The Gold Rush Rapids in a speedy 20 seconds and take the two metre plunge • Take a splash in the dark on the Wild West Canyon on a two-seater raft, experiencing twists and 360 degree turns! Adventure Park is doing it for the kids, too! The Tiny Tots Splashzone keeps the young ones cool, safe and entertained, with waterfalls, mini waterslides and spray cannons throughout. While Bonito's Bay Water Play offers a state-of-the-art aquatic playground including waterfalls, water jets and more pirate-filled water fun. On dry land, families can take a ride on the popular Go Karts and Electric Cars, try a hand at Archery, discover the new Galactic Games World, challenge family and friends to a game of Mini Golf, take a leisurely ride on the Paddle Boats and Aqua Bikes and watch the world go by on the Classic Carousel. Bring in a picnic, hire a BBQ and relax lakeside under shaded picnic areas, marquees and pavilions, set amongst 21 hectares of landscaped parkland.

Queenscliff

Vue Grand

Situated in the heart of beautiful Queenscliff, and less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, the Vue Grand is a stunning multi award winning boutique hotel. A magnificent historic property the Vue Grand is one of Victoria's leading venues for conferencing, weddings, dining and accommodation. The Vue Grand boasts 32 rooms lovingly restored to reflect the hotels unique charm, with a variety of room types to suit everybody's needs and budget including: Bay view Suites, Spa and Balcony rooms. You can't go past the magnificent Turret Suite, with breathtaking 180 degree panoramic views, king sized bed, heated floor tiles, retractable plasma and spa with a view. For those wanting to indulge in a fine dining experience, the Vue Grand's award winning Restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner. The inspiring menu has a strong focus on local produce showcasing what the Bellarine has to offer. The Vue Grand recently won Best Restaurant - Fine Dining in the 2010 Golden Plate awards. In the summer months you can also relax, unwind and enjoy a drink on the 'Rooftop' Bar with spectacular views of the bay. Other facilities the Vue Grand offers include on site massage, function venue and private dining. The Vue Grand is part of the Bellarine Taste Trail, located near beaches, sailing and dolphin swims.

Queenscliff

ex HMAS Canberra

The ex HMAS Canberra dive site is the first artificial reef specifically created for diving in Victoria. It lies in approximately 28 metres of water, with the top of the mast about 5 metres below the surface at low tide. The site provides opportunities for divers with varying levels of experience and certification, from open water level certificates to advanced wreck divers, to enjoy this site. When the ship as prepared for scuttling many of the original working features were retained so divers still get a sense of being on board a working ship. Dive charter operators based at Queenscliff Harbour can lead trips to dive the ex HMAS Canberra.

Portarlington

Bellarine Taste Trail

The Bellarine Taste Trail is a collection of gourmet delights and foodie experiences all within 20 minutes of each other. The trail twists a scenic path around The Bellarine, taking visitors to vineyards that are receiving some of Australia’s highest accolades for their wine and farms that have changed the local restaurant scene with their amazing produce. There are breweries using innovative techniques for original flavours and bakeries known for amazing wood-fired bread and multi-award winning pies. Several tour companies run charter operations across the Bellarine, so you can truly indulge in all the Bellarine Taste Trail has to offer and let someone else worry about transport and navigation. The Bellarine is bounded by Port Phillip Bay to the North and Bass Strait to the South – as such, the seafood on offer is amazing. Portarlington’s mussels are well known locally and feature in a different dish at virtually every restaurant in the region. Places to eat range from those with stunning water views, or nestled in rolling farmland hills to exquisite and grand historic hotel dining rooms. They all offer their unique take on local fare. For more casual meals, pick up a bounty of local produce from one of the provedores and food stores around the Bellarine and make it yourself – either at home or at your holiday accommodation.

Geelong

Eastern Beach

The art-deco swimming enclosure at Eastern Beach has been a Geelong favourite for generations. Built in the 1930’s, the ‘Promenade’ is a wooden structure built in an arc, great for walking on a warm evening. The swimming area also has a large tower and diving boards. There is a separate children’s pool that is enclosed and paved. On shore, there is a fantastic adventure playground with plenty of spectator seats for the grown ups. There are large areas of lawn perfect for picnics or, depending on the season, a kick of the football or a game of cricket. There are toilet and dressing room facilities, and the beach is patrolled by lifesavers during summer. There is also a restaurant / café / kiosk on site. The whole area is set amongst grassy hills and enormous trees, and several of the buildings in the precinct are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

Geelong

Geelong Waterfront

Building their city on a North-facing bay was a stroke of genius for the forefathers of Geelong. Generations later, residents and visitors alike are enjoying the benefits of the area collectively known as 'The Waterfront'. Childrens attractions, open public space, a lively calendar of events and fabulous places to eat and drink make the Waterfront a Geelong must-do.

Queenscliff

The Blues Train

Victoria's historic coastal town of Queenscliff is home to the world's one and only Blues Train. It is a unique experience that combines four of Australia's best live acts and the beautiful scenery of the Bellarine Peninsula on the Drysdale Railway line while aboard a real moving vintage steam train. It is one of Australia's most spectacular entertainment experiences - it is a mini festival in one night and a progressive party you'll never forget. Nothing captures the spirit of the blues quite like a steam train. Listening to the train whistle and the clickety-clack on the tracks you can imagine the old blues masters jamming it up on Mississippi freight trains as they were 'ridin' the blinds' around America's deep south. The Blues Train leaves Queenscliff Railway Station after guests have enjoyed a delicious meal complemented by fine Australian and local wines. The steam train then makes its way along 16 kilometres of track, gently rocking from side to side, seemingly in beat with the music. At each of the stops, Suma Park and Drysdale, revellers swap carriages to see another of the acts, so by the end of the night patrons have seen all four acts performing on the train. Drinks are available from the mobile bar that miraculously appears on each platform (from the converted guard's van). You can sit back, relax and listen to the music with a drinking on one of the seated carriages or get up and boogie the blues away in one of the dance carriages. Please visit the website for the different show dates.

Geelong Waterfront

Geelong Scenic Boat Cruise

Freedom Bay Cruises can give you the best view of Geelong! Located at Steampacket Quay on the beautiful Waterfront the 40 minute tour travels around Cunningham Pier, past boats, port facilities and the Art Deco Eastern Beach. All cruises include a full commentary and both inside seating and outside viewing areas. Freedom can take up to 60 passengers and cruises depart on the hour from 11am to 4pm, weekends and school holidays. Cruises are suitable for all ages with ample room for prams and wheelie frames. Crew are happy to assist passengers board the boat via the gangplank and four steps. Groups can pre book exclusive cruises on Freedom during the week, minimum numbers required. Freedom is also available for private parties at an hourly rate. For further information please visit the web site.

Geelong

ARB 4x4 Accessories Geelong

Umhauer's has been a name synonymous with quality automotive service in Geelong for over 80 years. The company was founded by Reginald Umhauer in 1928, a small workshop at the corner of McKillop Street and Ormand Road. It then shifted to Sydney Parade and later moved to the Corner of Minerva Road and Autumn Street, Manifold Heights. His son Robert followed, becoming an apprentice mechanic at the business in 1957. The company now has a third generation of Umhauer's. Bob and Jan's daughter Leza and son Kris. Umhauer's now owned by Kris and Leza Umhauer moved staff, stock plant and equipment into it's current location 157 Fyans Street Geelong, a new three level premises in April 2000. From humble beginnings servicing motor vehicles, UMHAUER'S now service a wide and growing industry of Solar and Power Solutions, Touring and Camping, Towing, Van, Ute and 4WD accessories.

Geelong

art@Wintergarden

art@wintergarden is a working studio gallery, situated in Geelong, where you will find art works of excellence including landscapes, still life, portraiture and sculptures. art@wintergarden hosts an exciting rotation of exhibitions, traditional and contemporary and operates an active studio space where small painting classes and workshops are regularly held. Artist/Proprietor Jill Shalless, founder of "Dabble 'n' Daub" moved into "The Wintergarden" in late 2004.

Queenscliff

Ashby House Interiors

Ashby House Interiors prides itself in selling genuine pieces and can guarantee authenticity because all of the stock is personally selected. The stock ranges in age from early 1800s to the 1940's. They are elegant but unpretentious pieces, intended to be used and enjoyed every day for years to come. The "Life of Lidia" label is featured how and is an extensive range of vintage clothing ranging from casual to formal wear and wedding gowns and veils. There is a large collection of artwork by local artists and some of them will do commission work as well. For your convenience Ashby House Interiors have lay-by, delivery, and there are also gift certificates and a bridal registry service has just started. Shopping at Ashby House Interiors is a joyous experience and a taste of the French love of beautiful things to be used and enjoyed.

Near Geelong

Avalon Raceway

Avalon Raceway first opened in the summer of 1976 which saw the dream of brothers Doug and Norm Drew come true. Both had been active drivers around the region and with the closure of Torquay Speedway saw the Drew Family build the Speedway on the land in Old Melbourne Road, Lara. Since that time the family have strived to improve the venue and along the way have created a number of Blue Ribbon Events that are nationally recognised. The early years saw Solo and Sidecars as the major drawcard attracting world champions Ole Olsen, Barry Biggs, Ivan Mauger, along with touring English Lions teams and European champions battle with legendary Phil Crump, while the sidecar action was nothing short of incredible with an Australian Championship and numerous Victorian Titles contested with the introduction of more clay content in the early 90's saw the demise of bike racing and the emergence of Sprintcar Racing which today Avalon Raceway holds a number of events which are highly rated on the national scene. These include the newly created Invitational Jackpot, the Presidents Cup, World Series Sprintcars and Round One of the Easter Trail. Avalon also hosts major events for its other classes as well. The K Rock Cup a major Super Sedan Show, West Coast Classic, Victoria's longest running Modified Production Feature plus major events for V8 Dirt Modifieds, Street Stocks, Speedcars and AMCA'.

Point Lonsdale

Banks Road Vineyard

"We are a boutique winery based on the Bellarine Peninsula just outside Geelong. We have approximately 12 acres of grapes planted including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz, which suits our coastal climate. We also source Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz grapes from the Harcourt Valley near Bendigo. We look forward to welcoming you to our vineyard" Will Derham, Vigneron. All wines are made on site in the small hands on facility. Banks Road also make wine for some of the other vineyards around area. They are very passionate about their wine and enjoy the closeness to their produce that being a small winery gives them. From bud burst in the spring to bottling the wine, sometimes years later, they see each vintage evolve. Their wines have received many accolades at shows and in reviews by wine writers. Their recently completed cellar door is open from Thursday to Sunday 11.00am - 5.00pm or by appointment. As well as tasting each of the wines you can enjoy a light lunch and a glass of wine whilst enjoying the view over the vineyard to the Rip.

Wallington

Barrgowan Vineyard

The Barrgowan Vineyard and Winery is owned and operated by Dick and Dib Simonsen. Vines were planted in 1994 with the objective of producing a high quality Shiraz for private consumption. This specialisation in Shiraz continues and the high quality is reflected in an impressive list of awards since 1998. The production is very small from the 1/2 acre of vines, 50 cases in 2003 rising to an expected 200 cases in 2010 with no plans to expand further. This will ensure the continued high quality and attention to detail. The vineyard is unusual in that five different clones of Shiraz are planted, and Barrgowan Vineyard believe that each clone adds just a little extra complexity to the finished wine. Barrgowan Vineyard hand prune the vines, hand pick the fruit and basket press manually. Diligence, care and gentleness are applied at all stages of the wine making process; for example, most wine transfer is achieved by gravity, not pumped. By scientific measurement during the wine making process, we ensure the absolute minimum use of additives. The overall criterion is quality, not quantity! The wine matures for 12+ months in the best, ultra fine grained French oak barrels available, and do not blend, filter or fine. Barrgowan Vineyard do not have a distributor, all wine is sold by word of mouth, mail order or email. If you would like to be on our mailing list, or order wine. There is a Cellar door - by appointment only. The tastings are an experience and generally include a tour of the wine making facility. Please contact for orders of Cellar Door appointments.

Queenscliff

Barwon Booksellers

The Queenscliff shop opened its doors in 1995 and is located in a beautifully kept, heritage listed former Wesleyan Church. Built in 1868 the high ceiling and historic atmosphere create a charming environment in which to browse the wall to wall shelves when the weather's not so good for the beach.

Geelong

Barwon Grange

Barwon Grange is an elegant intact brick home dating from Geelong's earliest residential settlement. It was built in 1855 and reflects the aspirations of middle class businessman Jonathan Porter O'Brien and his family who had emigrated from Liverpool. The picturesque Gothic style architecture includes steep gables, unusual decorative timber bargeboards and veranda parapet. The interior contains a fine collection of early Victorian furniture and fittings faithfully accumulated according to an inventory compiled when the house was auctioned in 1856. The garden complements the house with a Victorian fountain. Lawns sloping down to the Barwon River are planted with species from a mid-19th century plant catalogue. Self-guided garden walks are available.

Barwon Heads

Barwon Heads Golf Club

Nestled amongst the coastal dunes and metres from the spectacular 13th Beach surf coast, the highly ranked Barwon Heads links course presents an enjoyable challenge for all golfers. Widely recognised as a private club, visitors who are members of other golf clubs are invited as green fee players, and to stay in the house. The magnificent clubhouse, recently listed by the National Trust and Heritage Victoria, is famed for its ambience and old world charm. With stunning architecture and captivating views, it is a clubhouse designed for all seasons. House guests can enjoy the open balconies in summer or the luxurious open fires during the cooler months. Upstairs, there are 19 ensuite rooms, and a variety of packages are available incorporating your stay with golf, dining and entertainment. Other facilities include tennis courts, billiards, a driving range and professional shop. Take some well-earned time off and be enchanted by 100 years of golfing history.

Geelong

Barwon Ridge Wines

Barwon Ridge Wines philosophy is to express the characteristics of fine Geelong wines through the growing of premium grapes and production of quality hand crafted wines. Geoff Anson, Joan Anson, and Ken King are partners in Barwon Ridge Wines. Geoff and Ken are the winemakers, and Geoff and Joan look after the vineyard.

Geelong

Baveras

Dining is only part of the experience. Baveras is on the eastern side of the weathered beauty that is Cunningham Pier, 250 metres out over Corio Bay. With views extending across the bay to the city skyline and the yacht club, a pre-dinner drinks area and a gorgeously designed interior, complimented by an extensive wine list and elegant al carte menu, dining at Baveras is an indulgence for the senses. This Geelong restaurant is the perfect setting for a family celebration, a first date, an anniversary, a proposal, a business lunch or dinner or a birthday. The food is prepared by passionate people. The menu is influenced by the seasons and the produce of the surrounding area. Baveras aim to use texture and temperature in various preparations to challenge, excite and satisfy guests. Baveras is open for lunch Wednesday to Sunday and open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday. Bookings are not essential but are recommended. Reservations can be made by phone or email.

Barwon Heads

Beach House Barwon Heads

Beach House Barwon Heads has been operational for over two and a half years, in the once Barwon Heads fire station. This beautifully renovation venue is a fusion of café and restaurant styles. A relaxed café environment during the day, serving the town's best coffee, makes way for magnificent modern Australian cuisine and a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience in the evening hours.

Wallington

Bellarine Adventure Golf

Set on six acres with beautifully landscaped gardens, Bellarine Adventure Golf has two magnificent 18 hole courses. They are great for any weather with both courses providing plenty of shelter from the sun or rain. Each course incorporates real sand and water hazards to keep you on your toes and those scores honest. People of all ages can play and they have putters to suit the smallest of kids through to the biggest.

Portarlington

Bellarine Estate

The historic seaside villages of the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula are a pleasant drive down the road from this small vineyard by the highway. Overlooking the vineyard and with views over Corio Bay, Bellarine Estate offers wine tastings from their Bellarine Estate range, as well as their Portarlington Ridge Label. In addition, beer tastings from the Bellarine Brewing Company's micro-brewed range are also available. This is beer with attitude, perfect for the first time beer drinker and loved by the mature palate of a seasoned connoisseur. Established: 1996 Wine Region: Geelong Owners: Liz and Peter Kenny Winemaker: Anthony Brain Open: 7 days 11am - 4pm. Lunch Sat & Sun 11am - 3pm Wines: Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Shiraz. Wine Prices: $10.00-$36.00 Beers: Pale & Celtic style Ales, Lager, Bitter & Mussel Stout Beer Prices: Bottle $5, 6pack $24.90, case $79.20 Food: Casual Cellar Door lunch menu weekends only Functions: Up to 100 people. Weddings: Up to 100 people.

Wallington

Bellarine Horse Riding Centre

The riding school has been run by the Lamperd family for the past 40 years. Robin Lamperd began the school in Wallington as part of Koombahla Park Equestrian Centre in 1974 up until 2010. Robin's son, Murray Lamperd, took over the running of the riding school in 2005. Murray's vision for the riding school and equestrian team meant there was a growing need for updated facilities and a more specific training environment. Because of this, the riding school made the move to the new location at the end of Barry's Lane, just behind the old property, in November of 2010. This move has seen new life into the school horses with better grazing and an excellent surface for riding. It has also created a more inclusive and encouraging environment for the riders entering the competition world, and enabled Murray to focus more intensively on preparing his horses and students for the competition season.

Queenscliff

Bellarine Railway

The Bellarine Railway traverses Victoria's beautiful Bellarine Peninsula near Geelong, between the historic coastal town of Queenscliff and the hinterland village of Drysdale. The railway hugs the water around scenic Swan Bay providing breathtaking views, before climbing through the rolling hills of the Bellarine Peninsula to Drysdale. Australia's unique railway experience.

Geelong

Black Bull Tapas Bar and Restaurant

The Black Bull has quick $10 lunches available Monday to Friday and long dinners, with private dining and set menu options, every night of the week. Daniel Brehaut and Hernando Callejas have created an exciting menu with variety, spice and flavour to suit all palates with tapas, racion, mains and desserts. The wine list has complimented this with new local, European and Spanish additions, not to forget Black Bulls famous Spanish Sangria! Whether it is a sit down dinner or cocktail function, the Black Bull has a range of set menus to suit everyone's needs. Offering flexibility on packages, the team can organise a unique function to your requirements and ensure its success every time.

Drysdale

Clifton Springs Golf Club

Clifton Springs Golf Club is a Mike Clayton designed 18 hole course. The course has superb Legend turf fairways and is located about an hours drive from the Westgate Bridge near the town of Drysdale where full facilities are available. The club is the best located course on the Bellarine Peninsula and with superb views of Corio Bay across to Avalon Airport. The sight of the many ships sailing past as you play the course is a sight that will be remembered forever. Being central to Port Phillip Heads and Geelong in the middle of the Bellarine Wine District with easy access to both surf and bay beaches it is perfect for a day or weekend visit. The course has an excellent dining area that has views to dream about and would make any occasion a memorable one. The Club's Open Week is held in November each year. Entry forms can be obtained by contacting the club or via our website.

Geelong

Club Cats - Geelong Football Club

Geelong Cats and Club Cats know how to put on a great performance - on and off the field. For food, functions and fun you can't go past Club Cats. Club Cats will take care of everything, so you can relax with friends and enjoy our surroundings at Kardinia Park. Club Cats also provide function facilities for all occasions. Whether it be a corporate function, birthday party, wedding or just a social get together, you can't go past Club Cats.

Geelong

Combat Laser Strike Geelong

Laser Strike is a safe and exciting outdoor laser skirmish, laser tag based in The Basin, Gembrook, Geelong, Warrnambool, Mansfield-Benalla, Phillip Island, Mt Buller and Mobile! The laser skirmish guns shoot harmless beams of infra-red light, they work both indoors and outdoors, make lots of noise and have sensors on the target lighting up to show a 'hit'. Each hit reduces available health points, until the player gets "killed or retired" from the game. There are several different weapons on offer including short-range sub-machine guns through to long-range telescopic sniper rifles, each with its own tactics and uses. Many different tactical missions and scenarios are battled out and are to be won or lost. Teams must work together on their planning and strategy to achieve their aims and objectives. Games and sessions available both during the day and at night. Laser Strike and it's combat simulation is just like paintball but without the pain or the bruises and is great for birthday parties, sports teams, corporate team building events, school and university groups, social clubs and groups, hens and bucks parties and individuals Laser Strike is also 100% fully mobile. Yes, Combat Laser Strike can come to you! Best of all ----ANY AGE CAN PLAY!

Wallington

Curlewis Golf Club

Situated on a sandy base with a minimum of trees and naturally undulating couch fairways this Vern Morcom designed links type course has maintained its position as one of the best on the Bellarine Peninsula and has been further enhanced by a recent Michael Clayton Master Plan. With challenging bunkers and firm and fast greens, it is the wind however that often determines the level of playing difficulty. The course measures 6150 metres from the championship marks and is a challenging par-72. A challenge for players of all standards and a true test of golfing ability. Green fee players welcome. 6100 metre Par 72 course Large contoured greens Naturally undulating couch fairways Well Bunkered, links style layout On the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria One hour from Melbourne 10 minutes from Geelong

Geelong

2 Faces Restaurant

"If Chef Simon Yarham's menu were a painting, it would contain elaborate flourishes, busy curlicues, curious daubs of texture and, above all, obsessive attention to detail. His spirited approach to food may faze the less adventurous, yet others will delight in Yarham's artistry" - The Age Good Food Guide Join 2 Faces Restaurant in the air conditioned, relaxed 1857 Heritage dining room. Whether you choose a la carte, group dining, a function, regional four course or the seven course degustation menu, the passion for food and service will be evident. Now in the 13th year the evocative and eclectic menus spoil you with choices of infused flavours, fresh ingredients and Simon's innovative gastronomic style. Get ready for an adventure into culinary diversity with dishes that draw on tastes, textures and ideas from a myriad of world cuisines. Nothing plain here!

View more things to see and do >>

Packages & Offers

Mercure Geelong Family Fun Offer

Includes overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast, car parking and a 1 day entry pass to Adventure Park.

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

A unique musical experience! Toe tapping entertainment, a cool drink and a good laugh. Rock your stay in Queenscliff with Blues Train tickets and award winning accommodation at BIG4 Beacon Resort.

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Relax at stunning Barwon Heads Friday and Saturday night in a cosy 4.5 star one bedroom spa suite.

Romantic getaway at Whitecrest Resort from $620

Romantic Getaway package including 2 nights, sparkline wine, fine handmade chocolates and flowers.

Geelong & The Bellarine

Geelong & the Bellarine

Highlights

Packages & Offers

Mercure Geelong Family Fun Offer

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Romantic getaway at Whitecrest Resort from $620

Mercure Geelong Family Fun Offer

BIG 4 Beacon Resort Blues Train Package

Seahaven Village - Taste of The Bellarine $495

Romantic getaway at Whitecrest Resort from $620