This cosy coastal getaway, just an hour from Melbourne, is your base for a great break in Flinders. Kaye rates her recent stay at Cottontree Cottage on the Mornington Peninsula.
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Stay
Cottontree Cottage is located on the main road into Flinders, a quiet seaside town on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.
The house sleeps seven, so it offers great accommodation options for extended families and long-term friends, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
But the standout feature is the extraordinary 180-degree view of Westernport Bay and Phillip Island, best enjoyed from the comfort of the leather armchairs in the main living room.
Here you can while away a few weeks or even a day, reading, drinking coffee or sipping a local pinot noir or pinot gris from a Peninsula winery.
Situated on 25 acres of farmland, Cottontree Cottage offers a stylish and comfortable retreat for groups of four to seven. Bookings can be made through Airbnb.
Play
From Cottontree Cottage, there is a wealth of activities within a short walk or drive. A 10-minute walk will deliver you to Sunnyridge Strawberry Farm where you can ‘pick your own’ or partake of delicious afternoon teas. Visit historic Flinders township, 10 minutes by car, to enjoy cafes, restaurants, designer stores, art galleries and test your skills at the seaside public golf course, or indulge in an aimless stroll on one of the many scenic beaches.
Eat
If fine dining is your go, then there are many establishments to tempt your tastebuds, including Jackaloupe, Pt Leo Estate, Pier 10, and T’Gallant. Deep pockets required!
If casual eateries are your preference, then Merricks General Store or the Harvest Café are sure to please. And if you choose to dine in at Cottontree Cottage, there are always excellent pies, curries, lasagne and desserts available from the inimitable Johnny Ripe.
And for a delightful garden experience, Panton Estate is open daily, selling cheese platters and well-matched local wines in amongst the trees and herbaceous borders.
By now you may need to work off all those extra kilos – I always blame Johnny Ripe’s apple pies – so more active pursuits abound, including stand-up paddle boarding, wind surfing, abseiling, horse riding and cycling as well as hiking in one of the many state parks.
But for me, Cottontree’s open fire, a good book and a glass of red will always be the highlight of my favourite Flinders getaway.
Book now at www.airbnb.com.au.
Related articles:
Kaye’s Mornington Peninsula hot tips
Best little bakehouse in Flinders
Best outdoor markets in Australia
