Take a Wine Tour on the Bellarine Peninsula

Spanning from the coast to the hinterland, this diverse wine region delivers world-class drops thanks to its optimal combination of low rainfall, winds across the bay and cool climate. Best of all, there are plenty of wineries in close proximity, so sometimes there’s not even any driving required.

“We have so many amazing wineries within walking distance of each other,” says Holly Gillham, Operations Lead at Terindah Estate. “You can enjoy lunch and a wine tasting here at The Shed at Terindah, then head over to Jack Rabbit to enjoy the views and Bennetts on Bellarine for further tastings.”

Along with their own varieties that are deep in colour and full of flavour, each winery has something unique to experience, whether that’s glamping among the vines or paint-and-sip sessions onsite. Here’s our pick of the best the Bellarine wine region has to offer – so why not explore before your Spirit of Tasmania adventure?

Come for the award-winning wine and stay for the art at Provenance Wines, housed in a 19^th-century building on the banks of the Barwon River. Visitors to the old Paper Mill will be able to feast their eyes on a 25sqm mural by internationally-acclaimed, Geelong-born artist Rone. Executed over a period of five days, this stunningly lifelike depiction of a woman stretches all the way up to the historic building’s vaulted ceiling.

The winery also partners with Bells Fine Art Studio to showcase the work of talented local artists, all available to purchase.

Just beyond the crashing waves of Port Phillip Bay on the Bellarine Peninsula sits Jack Rabbit, where unrivalled views across to Geelong and Melbourne make as much of an impression as the wine. Soak up the spectacular vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows at the vineyard’s award-winning restaurant, where modern Australian dishes showcase the best Bellarine has to offer.

Terindah is the Indonesian word for ‘most beautiful’, which is perfectly fitting for this boutique winery. Nestled next to Jack Rabbit beside the sea and dotted with fig trees and leafy vines, Terindah Estate invites guests to indulge in award-winning wines and delectable food in the most picturesque of settings.

Looking for a wine experience with a difference? The twilight glamping village offers the chance to sleep under the stars in one of 15 luxury bell tents, all with views rolling down to the waters of Port Phillip Bay.

Rated among James Halliday’s Top 100 Australian Wineries is Scotchman's Hill, a highly-regarded vineyard in the region for more than 30 years. It’s easy see why its appeal is enduring: alongside award-winning drops is a complementary dining experience that showcases the finest regional produce. Highlights include locally-sourced charcuterie, Bellarine pressed lamb and Portarlington mussels, fresh from the sea.

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If you’re looking for a good time, Leura Park Estate is sure to serve one up – along with estate-grown wines and delicious dining, of course. With events including live music on Sundays, paint and sip classes with acclaimed Victorian artists Jaimie Bedell and Many Dollery, Shakespeare performances between the vines and comedy gigs, there’s never a dull moment at this 150-acre vineyard.

Information included in this blog is correct at the time of publishing. Please contact individual operators for further information.