January is made for long, lazy days. The city feels half empty with shops and cafes closed or trading with reduced hours. It seems that everyone has escaped to the beach. Who am I to fight the annual Summer exodus?
My usual destination is to head down the Great Ocean Road to Lorne (my tips are here) but this year I also fitted in a trip for a family celebration to the Mornington Peninsula. I often day trip this way so it was nice to spend two nights with more time to explore.
We rented a house through Stayz for our group of six adults and four kids and managed to find a lovely place just a block back from the Mcrae Beach. At first glance we were slightly disappointed with the house as it was situated at the back of another house (something not clear from the online photos). Once inside though, we cheered up. The house was brand new and sparkling clean with a large open plan living area upstairs and balcony with views of the sea. Downstairs there were four bedrooms along with another small living area. The wooden floor boards upstairs did mean any noise carried downstairs early so once one person was up – everyone was up! We opted to pay an additional fee to have sheets and towels provided and the beds made up which made the arriving and departing process a lot easier.
Location wise we could walk to the beach and for coffee. It was also a short drive for a morning of relaxation at the Peninsula Hot Springs and lunch and wine tasting at Green Olive. For a big group of friends or extended family this house ticks all the boxes.
Essentials
Details: Mcrae Beach House via Stayz, Listed as “Air Con, Walk to Beach“,
Damage: Pricey. From $450 a night.
8/10
Gourmet Travel Tips
- McRae is one hours drive from Melbourne.
- We spent time beachside and at the Peninsula Hot Springs for a soak and relax.
- Favourite nearby wineries include Green Olive, Merricks Creek and Yabby Lake Vineyard.
