Summer is one of the most magical times to visit the Mornington Peninsula. Long, warm days, balmy evenings by the water, incredible food and wine experiences, and a constant buzz of markets, festivals and coastal adventures. If you’re thinking about a stay at Lakeside Villas at Crittenden, here’s a snapshot of what you can look forward to this summer.
Relaxed Summer Vibes by the Vineyard Lake
Imagine waking up over the water, wandering to a long lunch at our brand-new Crittenden Restaurant, then spending your afternoon exploring beaches, wineries, markets or thermal springs. Staying at the Villas puts you right in the heart of everything… but still tucked away with total privacy and tranquillity.
Eat, Sip & Explore Local Flavours
The Peninsula is famous for its wine, and summer is the perfect time to sip and savour.
- Crittenden Restaurant – open lunch 7 days and dinner Friday–Saturday, just steps from your villa
- Award-winning cellar doors throughout Red Hill, Main Ridge & Dromana- check out this website for locations- morningtonpeninsulawineries.com.au
- Pop-up distilleries, cider houses and breweries offering tastings and live acoustic music. Some close by that we recommend include Jetty Road Brewery, Jimmy Rum, Mock Red Hill Cider,
- Fresh seafood, long vineyard lunches, ice-cream by the beach and sunset dining along the coast.
- Locals tip- Between late Dec and mid-winter, grab fresh mussels from Harrys Mussels at Flinders pier on Saturday and Sundays from 11am-6pm (weather permitting).
Whether you’re a foodie or just love simple, high-quality local produce, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Summer Markets, Events & Festivals
Throughout December–February, the Peninsula is alive with:
- Twilight markets with food trucks, live music and handmade artisan goods- check out this website- https://www.craftmarkets.com.au
- Mornington Racecourse Market– one of the region’s biggest and most loved
- Portsea, Balnarring & Mt Martha markets for relaxed browsing and local finds
- Christmas and New Year community events, carols and outdoor celebrations- what’s on HERE
- Outdoor cinemas, gallery exhibitions, and boutique coastal shopping
- Dromana Drive-In is just around the corner- http://www.dromanadrivein.com.au
Perfect for a lazy morning or an evening wander after dinner at the restaurant.
Beach Days & Coastal Adventures
Some of Victoria’s best beaches are only minutes from Lakeside Villas:
- Safety Beach & Dromana– calm waters perfect for paddle-boarding and swimming
- Sorrento Back Beach & Portsea– rugged, scenic coastlines for adventurers
- Mt Martha South Beach– colourful bathing boxes and sparkling water
Add in snorkelling, boat trips, dolphin swims and coastal walks like Cape Schanck… summer is made for being outdoors here. Some of our recommendations-
- For dolphin swims- https://www.moonrakerdolphinswims.com.au
- For fishing trips- https://bayfishntrips.com.au
- For eco Sup and snorkelling- https://wildadventuresmelbourne.com/tour/peninsula-wildlife-sup-safari/
Wellness & Nature Experiences
If relaxation is your priority, the Peninsula has you covered:
- Peninsula Hot Springs– thermal bathing under the stars
- Alba Thermal Springs & Spa– luxury bathing, spa rituals and dining
- Pond Bathhouse– Magnesium baths, ice plunge, saunas and massage therapy
- Beautiful wetlands, botanical gardens and shaded bush trails
- Peaceful spots for reading, picnics or morning coffee on your villa deck
Returning to your villa’s spa bath, wood fire or lakeside balcony at the end of the day completes the experience.
Why the Lakeside Villas Are the Perfect Summer Base
Staying with us means you can enjoy:
- A private, fully self-contained villa floating above the lake
- King bedroom, deep spa bath and wood fire (yes, even in summer- it’s cosy in the evenings)
- Your own BBQ deck overlooking vines and water
- On-site cellar door and restaurant, so you can dine, sip and stroll home
- Easy access to beaches, Red Hill wineries, markets, day spas and walking trails
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a peaceful retreat or a foodie weekend, the Villas allow you to settle in, slow down and soak up the best of the Peninsula.
Ready for a summer escape?
We’d love to welcome you. Explore availability and upcoming packages here: