5 Reasons You Won’t Miss Melbourne
Although the Docklands is only an hour and 10 minutes away from Portarlington via the Port Phillip Ferry, the beachside town is teeming with produce, eateries and activities. Some of these fill a Melbourne-shaped hole (hello, coffee), while others simply aren’t an option in the big smoke. Here are five reasons you won’t miss Melbourne when you’re in Portarlington.
1. Melbourne-standard coffee with a view
Halfway down the hill between Newcombe Street and the waterfront, elevated Edina cafe has a stunning outlook across a grassy lawn to the bay. Sip Five Senses coffee with a homemade cake, swing by for brunch or enjoy a picnic pack on the lawn in the
sunshine.edinawaterfront.com.au
2. Lycra up on the Bellarine Rail Bike
Just south of Portarlington in Drysdale is the last 17-kilometre leg of the Bellarine Rail Trail. It starts at Drysdale Railway Station and finishes at Queenscliff, but if you're feeling fit, drive to the end of the trail – or the start in Geelong – and complete the 70-kilometre round trip. Alternatively, rent an electric bike from Bella E-Bike and enjoy the scenery without any exertion.
3. Stock up on picnic supplies at Bellarine Smokehouse
The Bellarine Smokehouse opens its production shed to the public between 11 am and 4 pm, on weekends. Their products are essential for any picnic haul, whether smoked salmon, rainbow trout, kingfish or local eel. Don't miss the smoked barramundi pate, and keep an eye on the website for extended opening hours, events and farmer's market appearances.
4. Keep big and little kids smiling at Daniel’s Donuts
With more than 40 types of doughnuts available, it's no wonder a queue snakes out of Daniel's every weekend. They're open from 6 am until 8.30 pm daily, pumping out tunes, pouring coffee and serving pies, shakes and doughnuts flavoured from salted caramel crunch to lemon meringue. Daniel’s caters to vegans, too.
danielsdonuts.com.au
5. Something for everyone at Portarlington Beach
Portarlington Beach is calm, quiet and perfect for families. There’s no swell in the shallow water, cafes and restaurants are within walking distance and the esplanade walkway, local bowls club and an impressive playground are all a stone's throw away.
