The Mornington Peninsula is the perfect destination for a road trip city escape, and today I’m going to introduce you to one of my favourite places on the Pen, Cape Schanck.
Nestled on the southernmost tip of the Peninsula, Cape Schanck separates the rampant ocean waves of Bass Strait from the calmer waters of Western Port Bay. It’s stunning landscapes and wild beaches make it the perfect spot for everything from a scenic trek, to a beach session, to a relaxing massage. I’ve rounded up seven reasons why you need to plan an escape asap from Melbourne, to this beautiful part of Australia.
5 Reasons to visit Cape Schanck
Visit the Cape Schanck Lighthouse
Without doubt, the most iconic land mark of Cape Schanck is the Cape Schanck Lighthouse. The lighthouse was constructed in 1859 and was the second lighthouse built in Victoria. Built from local limestone, it features a rare spiral staircase made from stone and is surrounded by a reserve that includes a museum, former keeper’s quarters and associated buildings.
The lighthouse viewing platform offers great views across the Cape, with daily guided tours conducted between 10.00am and 4pm. I’d highly recommend you book yourself a spot (included in the tour is entry to the Lightstation Museum).
The lighthouse the perfect place to start your exploration of Cape Schanck.
Explore the Walking Tracks
From the lighthouse car park are a network of scenic walks. There’s a short looped track which offers wonderful views of the lighthouse and coastline from several scenic lookouts, and a timber boardwalk which descends down the cliff to the rocky beach below. To the east of the car park is another coastal lookout where the Bushrangers Bay Walk commences. This walking track provides beautiful views over the rocky coastline, over Bass Straight towards Tasmania.
For keen hikers is the 26km Two Bays Walking Track. It trails from Cape Schanck through Arthurs Seat and ending up in Dromana. Be sure to pack your trekking poles for this one!
Indulge in a treatment at One Spa
One Spa in one word is luxurious. This new, architecturally stunning day spa retreat at the RACV Resort is designed with pure relaxation in mind.
My bestie and I booked ourselves in for a Friday afternoon treat, their Melt the Stress Away package. Starting with a hammam bathing session, the package also included a facial and shoulder massage. It was sensational. Up there with one of the best spa sessions I’ve ever had!
If nothing else, take a day trip to Mornington Peninsula for a Spa session here! DO IT!
Beaches and Jetty time
The beauty of the rocky coastlines, unspoilt beaches, and scenic walking tracks in and around Cape Schanck are second to none on the Pen. Whilst there is no defined commercial centre at Cape Schanck, the nearby suburb of Rosebud is a great place to enjoy time at the beach with your friends and family.
Rosebud Pier (which extends about 300 metres into the water) is a beautiful spot for families. There is a wonderful new playground, with a variety of play equipment to keep kids of all ages entertained. I’m talking baby swings, junior slides, tunnels, net swings, rope climbing walls and a flying fox. In short, it’s the perfect place for the little tackers to play whilst you enjoy a BBQ lunch or picnic. The Pier also overlooks the safe swimming beach and is a great fishing spot, so pack your tackle box if you enjoy throwing in a line.
Enjoy great Coffee and Art
Located around a 12-minute drive from the Lighthouse, Flinders is a small, picturesque township with a preserved streetscape, a historic general store and post office, and scattered antique stores and art galleries. The town is home to Mornington Peninsula Chocolates, Merricks General Store, and the super-pretty Georgie Bass Café & Cookery, all of which are worth a visit while you are in the area.
Finally, be sure to stop into Dromana and visit Pier Street Kitchen for a great coffee, tasty breakfast and friendly, local service. The cafe came highly recommended by our girl Megan Luscombe, who I met there for a cuppa a couple of months ago, and couldn’t wait to head back with my family.
Top Picks on the Mornington Peninsula
