Explore the local wineries, restaurants and producers scattered across the landscape and discover why the region is garnering a reputation as a foodie destination. Sample freshly caught seafood, sip on renowned cool climate reds, and fill the boot with goodies from local provedores and farm gates stocked high with seasonal bounty.

Discover the local history in Portarlington at buildings such as the National Trust flourmill, built in 1857, and the Ol' Duke, built in 1855. Admire the sweeping views from the gently sloping hills behind the town, taking in Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne's skyline and the You Yangs.

Freshen up with a swim at the bay beach, kick back on the beautiful foreshore, or treat yourself to a day out on the water. Anglers can bring their boat, join a charter or hire one by the hour and try their luck with the rod and reel. And landlubbers can always throw a line off the pier.

Kiddies will love a ride on the Portarlington Miniature Railway – open the first and third Sunday of every month. Seafood fans won’t want to miss the Portarlington Mussel Festival, a fun day full of music, local wines, beer and, of course, plenty of mussels, while June brings the joy and merriment of the National Celtic Festival.

Portarlington is just over 100 kilometres from Melbourne, or around one-and-a-half hours by car along the M1 and the Geelong-Portarlington Road.