Your Perfect Summer Day Trip: Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula or the Bellarine?

Summer has officially arrived which means longer days, greener vines, rosé on repeat, and a very strong urge to escape the city for a few hours of bliss. If you’re itching for a sunny day out with good wine, good food and even better views (minus the driving…), this is your sign to hop on the bus and let the good times roll.

Why Summer in Wine Country Just Hits Different

There’s something magical about the vineyards this time of year. The vines are green, cellar doors spill out onto the lawns, and every winery suddenly feels like it was designed for long lunches.

Whether you’re after iconic wineries, coastal views or a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path adventure, Victoria has a region for every mood. Here are the three easiest, breeziest options and yes, you can visit any of them with Hop It.

1. Yarra Valley: The Classic Summer Favourite

If you want the full wine country fantasy, the Yarra Valley has you covered.

Think:

• Sparkling tastings at Domaine Chandon

• Crisp whites under shady oak trees

• Garden picnics and long, lazy lunches

• A cheeky gin at Four Pillars if wine needs a break

• Easy one-hour trip from Melbourne CBD

It’s iconic for a reason. First-timers love it. Locals go back again and again.

3-Stop Easy Breezy Itinerary (Relaxed & Scenic)

Stop 1: Coombe Yarra Valley - Start the day with a beautiful tasting or long lunch in Dame Nellie Melba’s elegant estate.

Stop 2: Domaine Chandon - Continue the day with sparkling, sweeping vineyard views and summer vibes and a long 2 hour lunch in their restaurant.

Stop 3: Four Pillars Gin - A refreshing change of pace at the end of your day. A gin flight here is practically a rite of passage.

Perfect for: Couples, first-timers, and people who like their day chilled, not rushed.

Domaine Chandon

2. Mornington Peninsula: Beachy, Breezy, Beautiful

Wine tasting by the sea? Yes, please.

The Mornington Peninsula is the region you choose when you want a little bit of everything: sun, sea, vineyards, farm gates, and restaurants with views.

Expect:

• Cool-climate chardonnay and pinot noir

• Outdoor decks overlooking rolling hills

• A Mediterranean vibe (without the Mediterranean flight price)

• Cellar doors perfect for summer grazing platters

If you’re craving something elegant yet relaxed this is your summer match.

3-Stop Coastal Itinerary (Relaxed & Luxurious)

Stop 1: Port Phillip Estate - Ridiculously beautiful architecture and views that set the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Paringa Estate - Iconic chardonnay and pinot noir in a serene setting.

Stop 3: Green Olive at Red Hill - Sip, snack, wander the farm. This stop is ideal for a late long lunch.

Perfect for: Coastal romantics, foodies, and scenic-sunset seekers.

Green Olive at Red Hill

3. Bellarine Peninsula: For the Explorer at Heart

The Bellarine is ideal if you’re in a “show me something different” mood.

A little quieter, a little quirkier, and very, very delicious. With vineyards tucked between coastal roads and farmhouses, this region offers a softer pace and plenty of hidden gems.

Highlights include:

• Boutique wineries with big personality

• Ocean-view tastings

• Exceptional local produce (hello mussels and cheese)

• Cellar doors perfect for a lazy summer afternoon

If you've already ticked off the Yarra and Mornington, or you just love discovering a new favourite spot before everyone else finds it, give the Bellarine a try.

3-Stop Ocean Breeze Itinerary (Chilled & Photogenic)

Stop 1: Terindah Estate - Stunning ocean views, and bright, expressive wines make this stop an absolute summer highlight.

Stop 2: Scotchmans Hill - Classic, elegant wines to continue your coastal adventure.

Stop 3: Oakdene Wines - Quirky, creative, colourful - the perfect way to end the day.

Perfect for: First-time visitors, couples, and anyone who loves a good view with their vino.

Scotchmans Hill

🚐 Why Hop It Makes Your Summer Adventure Stress-Free

Let’s be honest: planning a day trip can sometimes feel like hard work. That’s where Hop It steps in. With us, you get:

• Zero driving. We'll be your designated driver!

• Your own itinerary. You choose your stops: 1, 2, 3 or 4.

• No fixed group tours. Just flexible, fun, choose-your-own-adventure style travel.

• Easy meet-up points. From the city or in-region.

• The freedom to explore at your own pace. No pressure, no rushing, no stress.

👉 Plan your summer day trip with Hop It