As the summer crowds fade and the air turns crisp, autumn is pure magic on the Bellarine Peninsula. Think golden vineyards, glassy bay waters and seaside villages returning to their relaxed best. For couples and families alike, it’s the perfect season to savour the region’s acclaimed food and wine without the summer rush.
The seaside towns of Portarlington, St Leonards and Indented Head provide a unique experiences for visitors looking for a laid-back getaway.
Portarlington in autumn is all about slow coastal living. Wander the foreshore, drop a line off the pier and feast on the town’s famous mussels fresh from the bay. A must-visit is the iconic Portarlington Bakehouse, operating in its current form since 2000, with a wood-fired oven dating back to the 1880s. Grab a pie, pastry or fresh roll and enjoy brekky or lunch outdoors while the kids play nearby.
Wine lovers are spoilt for choice. Jack Rabbit Vineyard and Terindah Estate pair sweeping bay views with cool-climate chardonnay and pinot noir, while Lethbridge Wines @ Hat Rock offers sustainably produced, Halliday five-star drops in a peaceful gallery setting. Many cellar doors are easily explored via local winery tours departing town.
Famed as a filming location for the popular late 1990s TV show SeaChange, St Leonards embodies laid-back coastal charm. Explore Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve, browse the welcoming cafés and boutiques along the main street, then linger by the water as the afternoon light softens.
Tucked between its neighbours, Indented Head is blissfully quiet in autumn. Visit the historic Ozone shipwreck ruins at low tide, stroll the shoreline with views to the You Yangs, and settle in for a spectacular autumn sunset – the perfect finale to a Bellarine escape.
If you’re looking for a little more action on your holiday, checking some of the events coming up over autumn and start planning your next escape.
