Perched between two bays, the Mornington Peninsula has a pleasant microclimate tempered by the water.

With kilometres of sandy protected beaches and a patchwork of green farmlets found down country lanes, it's a perfect day trip from Melbourne. Famed for cool-climate chardonnay and pinot noir, it has scores of mostly small vineyards with cellar doors and restaurants.

The region is home to sublime olive oil, fresh mussels, artisan cheese, berries, cherries, apples and quinces, much sold at attractive farm-gate shops - there's even opportunities to pick your own. Small hilltop hamlets, beachside villages and bayside resorts with galleries, fashion clothing and galleries complete the picture.