We Rank Mornington Peninsula’s 10 Top Lunch Experiences

Mornington Peninsula is known not only for its stunning coastlines and lush vineyards but also for offering some of Australia’s most memorable lunch experiences. Whether you’re craving a relaxed farm-to-plate meal, an elegant winery lunch, or an active day combining water sports and hot springs, this region delivers. We love the Ultimate Peninsula Adventure for its active mix of paddleboarding, bushwalking, and relaxing in hot springs, all wrapped up with a picnic lunch and wine tasting. It’s perfect if you want a bit of everything in one day and don’t mind a full schedule. For a more relaxed, wine-focused outing, the Montalto Vineyard offers a beautifully curated experience with wine tastings, a seasonal lunch, and stunning sculpture gardens — ideal for those who appreciate art, wine, and good food in equal parts.

Mornington Peninsula’s diverse offerings mean there’s a perfect lunch experience for everyone. From active water sports to gourmet winery visits, each tour offers a glimpse into the region’s rich culinary and natural appeal. Below, we detail the top options to help you choose your ideal midday adventure.

1. Ultimate Peninsula Adventure: Stand Up Paddle, Hot Springs, Hike, Lunch & Winery

At number 1, the Ultimate Peninsula Adventure is a full-day activity-packed outing that combines stand up paddleboarding, bushwalking, wine tasting, and relaxation at Peninsula Hot Springs. This tour is ideal if you want to be active and see many facets of the region in one day. Your day starts with SUP at Port Phillip Bay, where your equipment and lesson are included, making it accessible even for beginners. After paddling with views of the coastline, you’ll enjoy a boxed picnic lunch with coffee and tea, then visit Kerri Greens Winery for tastings. The highlight for many is soaking in the natural hot springs, which provides the perfect way to unwind after your outdoor adventures.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of physical activity and downtime, with towels, reef-safe sunscreen, and reusable bottles provided. Reviews praise the well-paced itinerary and the personal touches from the guide, especially the chance to see marine life while paddling. The tour’s price of about $207 per person reflects a comprehensive experience that combines adventure, culinary delights, and relaxation, making it especially suited for active travelers who want more than just wine.

Bottom Line: This is a great choice if you want a varied day out that’s equally focused on outdoor fun and comfort, with a good value for those seeking a complete experience.

2. Montalto Vineyard: Mornington Peninsula Discovery Wine Tasting and Lunch

At number 2, the Montalto Vineyard offers a more leisurely, wine-centered experience. This tour combines a visit to a renowned family-owned estate, where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting of cool climate wines and learn about the region’s viticulture. The highlight is the seasonal lunch served alfresco in the estate’s picturesque piazza, paired with wines. Plus, guests can stroll through the sculpture garden, adding an artistic dimension to the day.

What makes Montalto stand out is its focus on quality food and wine and the scenic beauty of the estate. The experience is ideal for those who want a refined but relaxed day, appreciating good food, excellent wine, and beautiful surroundings. The tour lasts about four hours and costs roughly $97 per person, making it a solid option for a shorter, more intimate outing. Guests frequently praise the staff’s knowledge and the delicious discovery menu food.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts and art lovers, this tour offers excellent value for an immersive wine and culinary experience in a stunning setting.

3. Mornington Peninsula Winery Bus Tour with Lunch & Wine

Coming in at number 3, the Winery Bus Tour simplifies wine touring with a guided day across four major wineries. This tour, lasting about seven hours, guarantees tastings at each stop, with a lunch and a glass of wine included at a chosen winery. The organized schedule means you don’t have to worry about transport or planning — the wineries are pre-selected for their quality and scenery.

What makes this tour appealing is its balance of convenience and variety. It’s suited for those who want to sample multiple wineries without the hassle of driving. The reviews highlight the smooth organization and the panoramic views, with many travelers appreciating the chance to try several different wines in one day. It’s a good value for the duration, especially if you’re keen on exploring multiple vineyards.

Bottom Line: A practical, hassle-free choice for wine lovers who want to taste a variety of wines and enjoy a good meal in a relaxed setting.

4. Mornington Peninsula Small Group Rare Hare or Merricks Wine Store

Number 4 on our list is the Small Group Tour to Rare Hare or Merricks Wine Store, offering an intimate, personalized experience. The tour includes a visit to Pt. Leo Estate’s sculpture walk, a wine tasting at Quealy Winemakers, and a relaxed lunch at Merricks General Wine Store or Rare Hare, both known for their local charm and seasonal menus.

This tour is specially designed for small groups (2-6 people), so it offers flexibility and a personal touch. The guide’s 22+ years of experience shines through, ensuring you get local insights and a tailored experience. The highlight is the combination of art, wine, and food in a relaxed pace, with reviews praising the guide’s friendliness and the quality of the food and wine.

For around $179 per person, this tour delivers a balanced experience of scenery, wine, and local dining. It’s suited for couples or small groups who want a more exclusive, in-depth day.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate tasting day with personalized service and a mix of art and food.

5. Mornington Peninsula Small Group Lunch and Wine Tasting Quealy

Number 5, the Small Group Lunch and Wine Tasting at Quealy, offers a dedicated focus on wine with a memorable meal. This 7-hour tour includes a sculpture walk at Pt. Leo Estate, a wine tasting at Quealy Winemakers, and a two-course lunch with wine at a local restaurant. The intimate size of the group (2-6) makes for a more personal experience, led by a knowledgeable guide.

Guests appreciate the regional insights and the chance to enjoy a well-curated lunch paired with local wines. The tour’s value lies in the combination of sightseeing, excellent wine, and the atmosphere of small-group intimacy. The guide’s knowledge about the region enhances the experience, especially for those who want to learn about local wine production.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers wanting a deep dive into the region’s best wines paired with great food in a small-group setting.

6. Farmer’s Lunch – Food and Wine for 2 adults

Number 6 is the Farmer’s Lunch, a farm-to-table experience at Green Olive at Red Hill. For about $108, two people enjoy a farm-grown tapas platter and a glass of estate wine, all with stunning views of the vineyard and farm animals. This is a more laid-back, authentic experience, perfect for those who want to connect with local food producers.

The highlight is the fresh, seasonal produce paired with local wines, making it a memorable farm experience. The reviews mention friendly staff, beautiful views, and the chance to relax while enjoying quality food. While it’s a shorter experience (around 1.5 hours), it’s a great option for a quick, authentic farm visit.

Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a genuine farm experience with excellent local food and wine.

7. Mornington Peninsula Lunch, Wine & Pt Leo Estate Art Walk

Number 7 offers a comprehensive Luxury Small-Group Tour, combining wine tasting, art exploration, and lunch. You can choose to self-guide through the Pt Leo Estate Sculpture Park at your own pace, making it perfect for art and wine enthusiasts.

This 7-hour experience is ideal if you want a mix of outdoor art and culinary delights. The guide provides insights into the region’s scenic vistas and wine. The flexible art walk allows you to enjoy the sculptures without feeling rushed, and the lunch offers a seasonal, 2-course meal with wine.

Reviews highlight the terrific winery choices and the scenic vistas, making this a good pick for those who appreciate a mix of culture and gastronomy.

Bottom Line: Excellent for art lovers who want to combine wine tasting with a self-guided sculpture walk and gourmet lunch.

8. Estate to Plate: Montalto Vineyard Gourmet Lunch and Wine-Tasting Tour

This Estate to Plate offers a 3-hour, all-inclusive experience at Montalto Vineyard. You’ll tour the estate, enjoy a private wine tasting, and indulge in a three-course meal paired with local wines. It’s perfect for those who want an in-depth look at the estate’s operations and culinary offerings.

What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on estate-grown ingredients and the personalization of the experience. You’ll see the vineyard, olive grove, and kitchen gardens before sitting down to a carefully curated meal. Reviews are scarce, but the comprehensive nature promises a luxurious experience.

Bottom Line: Best suited for wine and foodies seeking a guided, immersive experience at a renowned estate.

9. Mornington Peninsula Small Group Lunch & Art walk Pt Leo Estate

Number 9’s Small Group Art & Lunch Tour combines wine tasting, art exploration, and a scenic lunch in a small-group setting. The tour features a self-guided sculpture walk at Pt Leo Estate, complemented by a regional wine and a two-course meal.

This tour’s appeal lies in its personalized pace and focus on art and nature. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day exploring sculptures and enjoying regional wines. The guide can accommodate various dietary needs, and the experience is intimate.

Bottom Line: Great for art and wine lovers who prefer a flexible, small-group experience emphasizing culture and scenery.

10. Mornington Peninsula Premium 2-6 guests Lunch at Merricks General Wine Store

Rounding out the list, the Premium Lunch at Merricks General Wine Store offers a 7-hour personalized experience with private tastings, a delicious lunch, and scenic sightseeing. Led by experienced guides, this tour emphasizes local wines and authentic regional flavors.

This experience is perfect if you’re after a customized small-group outing that combines wine, food, and regional sights. It’s suited for those wanting a more tailored, intimate experience with expert knowledge guiding the way.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, in-depth day with an emphasis on regional wines and gourmet dining.

How to Choose Your Perfect Mornington Peninsula Lunch Experience

When selecting the best tour for your needs, consider your budget, how active you want to be, and whether art, food, or wine is your top priority. For instance, if you want an active day with paddleboarding and hot springs, the Ultimate Peninsula Adventure is unmatched. If your focus is on wine and art, then tours like the Pt Leo Estate Art Walk or the Small Group Art & Lunch Tour are excellent options.

Budget-wise, shorter half-day tours such as the Montalto Vineyard or Farmer’s Lunch offer quality experiences for less. For those wanting a more exclusive, personalized trip, small-group tours like the Rare Hare or Merricks Wine Store or Premium Merricks Lunch provide tailored service and in-depth local knowledge.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer, to secure your preferred date and tour.

In The Sum Up

Mornington Peninsula offers a broad spectrum of lunch experiences that match different tastes and activity levels. For an adventurous day combining water sports and relaxation, the Ultimate Peninsula Adventure stands out. Wine lovers will appreciate the refined, art-filled visits like the Montalto Vineyard, while those seeking intimacy can enjoy small-group tours such as the Rare Hare or Merricks Wine Store. Whatever your flavor, booking early and choosing a tour that matches your interests will ensure a memorable and delicious day in this stunning region.