Quick Guide to Red Hill, Victoria

Red Hill is located in the hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula, about an hour's drive south of Melbourne, in Victoria, Australia. This peaceful pocket of the world is beautiful. Drive through lush green rolling hills, majestic forests and long winding roads until you reach Red Hill. It feels like you're far from the beach but in fact, the water is only a hop, step and a jump down the road.

It's the perfect spot to visit for an indulgent day or weekend trip. Read below on where to eat and drink, where to stay and what to do.

Where to Eat & Drink

Montalto Winery

Enjoy a casual wine and pizza at Montalto Winery or reserve a table in the Chef's Hat rated restaurant. After the meal take your glass of wine and go for a walk through the vineyards, see the sculptures and the wetlands.

33 Shoreham Road, Red Hill South

Polperro

Polperro by Even Keel is another popular spot. Wine, dine, sleep and yoga at this breathtaking winery. Stunning to visit in any season.

150 Red Hill Road, Red Hill

Merricks General Store

Merricks General Store is one of my favourites. Reserve a place for lunch, especially if going on a weekend. Visit the cellar door and decide what wine you'll have, then settle down for a relaxed meal. There is terrific locally-made produce and hampers to buy.

3460 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks

Bass and Flinders Distillery

Bass and Flinders Distillery is the place to visit for the spirit lover. They make gin, spirits, liquors and aged spirits. After something truly unique? Book in for a Gin Masterclass and create your very own bespoke gin.

232 Red Hill Road, Red Hill

Foxey's Hangout

Foxeys Hangout is a place to hang with the family, enjoy a glass or two and stay for a light lunch.

795 White Hill Road, Red Hill

Where to Stay

Nord House

Nord House is the choice for those who like the Scandi way of life. Sleeping six, this beautiful self contained guest house is in an ideal pocket of Red Hill, only steps away from great food, produce and shops.

18 Baynes Road, Red Hill

Jackalope Hotel

Glamour and sophistication arrived this April in the form of the luxurious Jackalope Hotel. Named after the giant horned jackrabbit of North American legend, this 46-room hotel features two restaurants, an infinity pool and stunning views. Rooms start at $600 a night.

166 Balnarring Road, Merricks North

What to Do

Wine Tour Ready

Want to enjoy your time in the Mornington Peninsula without the hassle? Wine Compass wine tours create tailored tours bespoke for you which means there's more time for tasting wine, eating the food and enjoying your friend's company, than deciding where to go next and who is designated driver. With so many options to choose from, whether it's wine, gin or even chocolate tasting or something for the kids like strawberry picking, have a fun day out with ease. Planning a birthday, hens party or group outing, read more about Wine Compass tours here.

Peninsula Hot Springs

Soak and relax at the Peninsula Hot Springs, no matter what the season. Best to book at peak times.

30 Springs Lane, Fingal

Merricks Beach

Seeking more serenity? Walk Merricks beach and say hello to the locals.

Horses and Wine

Horseback Winery Tours is wine tasting with a difference. Visit cellar doors of T’Gallant, Green Olive at Red Hill, Mantons Creek, Red Hill Estate, Mock Orchard and their very own Prince Hollow Estate.

356 Shands Road, Main Ridge, Mornington Peninsula

Anti-Gravity Yoga

Try anti-gravity yoga at Silver Leaf Yoga School in Merricks.

3361 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks

Red Hill Village Food and Shopping

Red Hill village: Stock up on fresh and local produce from Cellar and Pantry, grab breakfast or lunch at The Epicurean, browse through Red Hill Shop for homewares, clothing, decor and accessories, discover vintage and one-off pieces at La Brocante.

Shoreham Road, Red Hill South

Lei xx

The Birthday Weekend

My girlfriends and I spent a weekend in the Red Hill region for my dear friend Alex's thirtieth birthday. Without a care in the world, we laughed ourselves silly, drank delicious wine and gorged ourselves on scrumptious food. It's weekends like this that you can't image life without girlfriends.

Friends are a blessing. Cherish the good ones, make time for them and celebrate every one of life's wins with them, including turning thirty.

Keep scrolling to see the photo diary of our day out at Montalto Winery...