Melbourne/Mornington: Peninsula Hot Springs and Winery Tour

If you’re looking to escape Melbourne’s city buzz for a day filled with natural beauty, good food, and wine, this tour offers a balanced mix of all three. For about $162 per person, you get around 6 to 8 hours of exploring the Mornington Peninsula, visiting Australia’s first natural hot springs, enjoying a gourmet winery lunch, and soaking in panoramic views from Arthur’s Seat. The tour is run in a luxury midi-coach with a professional guide, and we loved that everyone is guaranteed a window seat—a small detail that makes a big difference when you’re gazing out at the landscape.

Two things particularly stand out about this experience: First, the hot springs with over 75 geothermal pools are a real highlight, offering both relaxation and a chance to try various mineral-rich baths. Second, the winery lunch at Green Olive Estate isn’t just a meal; it’s a chance to savor local, award-winning cool-climate wines paired with delicious local produce.

A potential consideration is the longer duration—up to 8 hours can feel quite full if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time at each stop. But for most travelers, the value packed into this day trip makes up for the brisk schedule. This tour suits wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of both relaxation and scenic vistas—especially if you’re after a well-organized, small-group experience with insider knowledge.

Key Points

Comfortable luxury transportation with guaranteed window seats
More than 75 geothermal pools at Peninsula Hot Springs for relaxing soak sessions
Gourmet winery lunch paired with cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris
Scenic walk and panoramic views from Arthur’s Seat lookout
Expert guide providing local insights and friendly service
Flexible duration around 6-8 hours, ideal for a full day outing

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you a full yet balanced taste of what makes the Mornington Peninsula special. Starting from Melbourne, you’ll head in a luxury coach—equipped with WiFi and charging ports—toward your first stop, the Peninsula Hot Springs. Once there, you’re free to spend three hours wandering through more than 75 geothermal pools, each with different mineral compositions and temperatures. The hot springs are especially valued for their natural setting and therapeutic reputation, making them a favorite among visitors.

One reviewer, Michelle, remarked, “The Spa was fantastic!” and praised the generous time allocated. With so many pools to choose from, you can find a quiet spot, try the thermal mineral water, or even take a dip in the cold plunge pools for a bit of invigorating contrast. The hot springs are a genuine highlight — a relaxing way to unwind, especially after a morning drive.

Next, you’ll visit the Green Olive Estate, where a gourmet grazing board featuring local produce and a tasting of award-winning cool-climate wines awaits. Wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris shine here, with many reviewers raving about the quality and depth of flavor. The personal paddle of wine offers a chance to sample each variety carefully, making this part of the trip both educational and delicious. Verônica shared that “the lunch and wine were really delicious,” emphasizing the quality of the food and wine pairing.

Following lunch, the tour moves to Arthur’s Seat, where a guided walk takes you to the highest point of the peninsula. Expect breathtaking panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay—a photographer’s dream. Simon from Ireland called it an “excellent” stop, appreciating the bird’s-eye view and the chance to see Melbourne’s skyline merging with the natural surroundings.

The tour wraps up with a relaxed return to Melbourne, making it an ideal day trip for those wanting a well-organized, intimate experience. The small group size (max 15 guests) means you’ll get more personalized attention, and your guide will happily share insights about the region’s history and culture.

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In-Depth Look at Each Stop

Peninsula Hot Springs

The hot springs are the centerpiece of this tour. With over 75 pools, the variety is impressive—from warm mineral pools to cooler dips, cold plunges, and even a sauna. Visitors consistently praise the relaxing atmosphere and the diverse pools. One guest, Daniel, noted “very good and knowledgeable guide,” which hints that your guide will help you navigate the pools and explain their benefits.

The timing of about 3 hours is ample for soaking, relaxing on loungers, or even trying a spa treatment (optional upgrades available on the day). The pools are naturally heated, and the mineral content promises therapeutic benefits—perfect for unwinding after travel or sightseeing.

Green Olive Estate Winery Lunch

Green Olive Estate offers a gourmet experience that many reviews highlight as a standout. The grazing board features local produce, and the wine tasting includes award-winning varieties. As Verônica said, “everything was perfect,” and the delicious lunch is designed to be both filling and refined.

The cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are a signature of the region, and the personal paddle allows a detailed tasting experience. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an immersion into the local food and wine culture. The relaxed setting and friendly staff contribute to a memorable experience.

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Arthur’s Seat Scenic Lookout

Perched at the highest point on the peninsula, Arthur’s Seat offers spectacular views over Port Phillip Bay. The guided walk is manageable and offers vantage points for photos, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the scenery. You might even spot wildlife, as some guests have seen echidnas during their walk.

The view of Melbourne’s skyline from afar is striking, especially on clear days. It’s a quiet, contemplative spot that provides a fitting end to a day filled with sensory delights—hot springs, wine, and vistas.

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Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a premium midi-coach makes the journey comfortable, with WiFi and charging ports to stay connected. The small group size (up to 15 guests) allows for a more intimate experience, ensuring you’re not just another face in the crowd. Every guest is guaranteed a window seat, which is a simple but appreciated detail, especially when you’re eager to snap photos or just enjoy the scenery.

The tour departs from Melbourne Arts Centre, an accessible location with options for tram, train, or walking from central hotels. The pickup is flexible, with timings confirmed via text the morning of the tour.

Duration and Pacing

The 6 to 8-hour schedule provides enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Most reviews find the timing just right, especially considering the quality of each experience. But if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want extra time at certain spots, be aware that the schedule is tight enough to keep the day moving.

Pricing and Value

At $162, this tour offers a good balance of value, covering luxury transportation, guided insights, hot springs entry, a gourmet lunch, and scenic views. When you consider the cost of individual entry fees, meals, and transportation if booked separately, this package is competitive. The small group setting adds to the perceived value, ensuring personalized attention and a chance to ask questions.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Based on reviews, guides like Michael and Perry seem genuinely enthusiastic and knowledgeable, creating an approachable and friendly atmosphere. Guests mention how guides share insights into the region’s history, wildlife, and local culture, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The hot springs and winery lunch are authentic regional highlights, making this more than a touristy checklist—it’s a taste of the local lifestyle.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples, friends, and wine enthusiasts who appreciate well-organized tours with a personal touch. It suits travelers wanting relaxation combined with scenic beauty, especially those who enjoy hot springs, wine, and panoramic views. If you’re after a balanced, engaging day with plenty of opportunities for photos and tasting, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

For anyone seeking a well-rounded taste of the Mornington Peninsula, this tour offers a compelling combination of natural hot springs, award-winning wines, and stunning vistas—all in a comfortable, intimate setting. It’s a smart choice for those who value quality, authenticity, and expert guidance. While the schedule is quite full, most guests find it delivers excellent value, with heartfelt reviews praising the guides, scenery, and delicious food.

If you’re looking for a way to relax, indulge, and enjoy some of Victoria’s best scenery and produce, this tour will surely meet your expectations. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rich, memorable day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes luxury coach transport with WiFi and charging ports, making the journey comfortable and connected.

How long do we stay at the hot springs?
You have about 3 hours to enjoy the geothermal pools, which is enough time to relax and try different baths.

Can I upgrade at the hot springs?
Optional upgrades at the hot springs are available on the day, but the basic entry is included in the tour price.

What is the lunch like?
The gourmet winery lunch features a grazing board with local produce, paired with award-winning cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris.

Are children allowed?
Children under 2 years old are not suitable for this tour, and there are restrictions on pets and mobility scooters.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Melbourne Arts Centre, outside Protagonist Café on St Kilda Road, which is accessible by tram or walking from central hotels.

What is the group size?
The tour is small-group, with a maximum of 15 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for a relaxing day?
Absolutely. With long enough stops to unwind and enjoy, most reviews describe it as a relaxing, rejuvenating experience.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a day of leisure away from the city, this Peninsula Hot Springs and Winery Tour offers a well-crafted mix that’s hard to beat.