Mornington Peninsula Tour: wildlife, wine, art & hot springs

Thinking about a day trip from Melbourne that combines a bit of everything? This Mornington Peninsula tour promises a blend of native wildlife, local wines, art installations, and relaxing hot springs, all wrapped into a neat 9-hour package. If you’re after a well-rounded escape that balances nature, culture, and leisure, it might just be worth considering.

What really caught our attention are the opportunities to feed kangaroos up close at Moonlit Sanctuary and the breathtaking views from the hot springs—it feels like a genuine way to connect with both the land and its unique offerings. However, there’s more to this experience than just sightseeing; it’s designed to cater to those who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, good food, and a bit of luxury. The only potential hiccup is that it’s a fairly full day, so if you prefer slow mornings or traveling at your own pace, it’s something to keep in mind.

This tour feels best suited for travelers craving variety—whether you’re a wildlife lover, a wine enthusiast, or someone simply looking to unwind in natural hot springs. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a well-organized, private group experience that offers flexibility and multiple highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Combines wildlife, wine, art, and hot springs all in one day
• Wildlife Encounters: Hand-feed kangaroos and spot koalas in a sanctuary setting
• Wine & Food: Tasting at Point Leo Estates paired with a seasonal, locally sourced lunch
• Relaxation: Soak in mineral-rich, heated pools amidst tranquil bushland
• Scenic Views: From Seawinds Lookout to coastal vistas, photographic opportunities abound
• Flexible Options: Tour can be tailored to include more wineries or nature-based activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

This tour begins with a pickup from Dandenong, making it convenient if you’re staying in Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs. The private group setup keeps things intimate, which many travelers appreciate as it allows for more personalized attention from the guide.

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Park

The day kicks off with a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Park, where you’ll get a chance to hand-feed kangaroos—a highlight for many visitors. The park also hosts koalas, so you can see these iconic creatures in their treetops, along with rare species like the southern bettong and quoll. Reviewers often mention how the experience is friendly for wildlife enthusiasts and those who enjoy close encounters with animals.

One reviewer noted, “I loved the way I could get so close to the animals, it felt genuine and personal.” The sanctuary setting allows you to observe the animals in a natural environment, making it more meaningful than a zoo visit.

Optional Alternative: Point Nepean National Park or Gondola Ride

If wildlife isn’t your thing, some options include exploring Point Nepean National Park or taking a gondola ride, which offers panoramic views of the Peninsula and beyond. The park features historic military forts, the Quarantine Station, and scenic clifftop lookouts—perfect for those interested in coastal scenery and history.

You might see wild kangaroos grazing freely in the fields, especially if you visit Highfield, another potential stop. The lookout points offer sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay meeting Bass Strait, ideal for photos and soaking in the landscape.

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Wine Tasting at Point Leo Estates

Midday, you’ll arrive at Point Leo Estates for a 2.5-hour wine tasting session. The winery is noted for its premium cool-climate varietals, which locals and visitors alike praise for their quality. The tasting is paired with a seasonal lunch, crafted from locally sourced produce, offering a taste of regional flavors.

Travelers often mention the spectacular vineyard views, and the art-filled sculpture park—with over 70 large-scale works—adds a creative touch to the experience. This combines wine appreciation with a bit of outdoor art, making it more than just a tasting.

Hot Springs Relaxation

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Peninsula Hot Springs, Victoria’s leading geothermal spa. With over 70 bathing experiences—including cave pools, hydrotherapy baths, and a hilltop pool with 360° views—it’s a true highlight for relaxation.

One reviewer remarked, “The hot springs are a peaceful retreat set in bushland, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.” The mineral-rich waters are naturally heated, offering therapeutic benefits and a perfect way to cool down or warm up depending on the season.

Sunset or Nature Wrap-up

To cap off the day, depending on the season and weather, you’ll either enjoy sunset views from Seawinds Lookout or spot wild kangaroos grazing at Highfield. These moments offer a peaceful end and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What We Like and What to Consider

What works well:

• The variety of activities packed into one day—wildlife, wine, art, and relaxation—means you get a comprehensive taste of the Peninsula.
• The private group format makes the experience feel more tailored, allowing more interaction and flexibility.
• The scenic stops like Seawinds Lookout and the vineyard backdrop create excellent photo opportunities.
• The hot springs offer a genuinely relaxing experience in natural mineral waters, loved by many for its tranquility.

Things to keep in mind:

• The itinerary is quite full, and some might find the pace slightly rushed, especially if you want more time at each spot.
• If you’re sensitive to long walks or have mobility issues, the tour may pose some challenges, since walking is involved at parks and lookout points.
• The experience is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, and children under 3 are not suitable; so it’s best for older kids or adults.

Analyzing the Experience Value

At around 9 hours, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the region. The price generally includes private transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees (if applicable). The inclusion of wine tastings and hot springs makes it feel like a good value for those wanting a full day of diverse experiences without planning all the details themselves.

The flexibility to add more winery visits or nature activities by prior arrangement adds value, especially if you have specific interests. The tour’s high rating (5 out of 5) suggests that many travelers find it delivers what it promises—an engaging, smooth, and memorable day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and leisure. It suits those interested in native wildlife, regional wines, and scenic views, and who appreciate a well-organized, private group setting. It also caters well to those looking to relax in natural hot springs after a busy morning of sightseeing.

If you’re traveling with someone who loves art and culture, the sculpture park and coastal vistas might be a bonus. But if you prefer to spend more time in one place or at a slower pace, this might feel a bit busy.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not recommended on this tour, and the activities involve walking and outdoor exposure, so it’s better suited for older children and adults.

Can I customize the tour itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to include more wineries or more nature-based activities. You’re encouraged to message the provider for customization options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear for hot springs, a camera, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

How long is the wine tasting?
The wine tasting at Point Leo Estates lasts approximately 2.5 hours, allowing time to enjoy the wines and the picturesque surroundings.

Is the hot springs experience free or additional?
The hot springs are included in the tour. You get to spend around 2 hours soaking in the mineral-rich pools set amidst bushland.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for a private group, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is there transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included in the tour price, with pickup and drop-off from Dandenong.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full-day escape that captures the essence of the Mornington Peninsula—combining wildlife, wine, art, and hot springs—this tour offers a well-structured, enjoyable experience. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate variety and a bit of luxury, packaged into a seamless day. While it may feel a bit busy for some, the diverse highlights and the relaxed hot springs finale make it a solid choice for a memorable getaway from Melbourne.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply in need of some R&R, this tour provides a good balance of activities that will leave you feeling relaxed, inspired, and with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: