Family – Love the Peninsula

Sun, Surf and Sand!

Kate Donnelly — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:39:04 +0000

This spacious home is set within a tightly held Point Leo enclave, offering the perfect blend of comfort and lifestyle. Boasting 4 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it is ideal for multi-generational families or those seeking room to grow.

Generous living areas create space for relaxation and entertaining, while the property’s location is just moments from the Surf Club, Boat Club, Point Leo Beach, General Store, Trigger Bros, and scenic walking tracks.A versatile and family-friendly home that allows you to truly experience the best of Point Leo living.

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Alatonero, McCrae

Kate Donnelly — Sat, 10 Aug 2024 00:59:08 +0000

A long-term love affair with Santorini, and a passion for Greek food, has brought Alatonero – a sophisticated culinary Greek vibe – to McCrae in the Mornington Peninsula.

Alatonero is open daily from 21st December until the end of January, 12pm- Late.

They now offer full table service with their delicious menu and cocktails throughout the entire venue, both indoors and out.

They welcome walk-ins in their outdoor dining area, subject to weather and availability.

Across the road from the McCrae lighthouse and yacht club , Alatonero is giving diners the opportunity to enjoy well known and much loved Greek food. With an impressive resume in the restaurant world, and with energy and drive to burn, Jacqui Poulier has brought to life her love of the Greek Islands, it’s culture and lifestyle.

The restaurant is light, bright, open and airy with a fresh sea breeze that drifts through the open plan dining area. Launched in mid-October, 2016, Alatonero has quickly built up a solid reputation for delicious fare, fine produce and a stylish, comfortable atmosphere. More kaftan than collar, the welcoming hues of blue and white invite guests to sit back, relax and enjoy.

Alatonero is all about bringing people together – sharing the love of food, wine and stories. The venue is a very modern take on the Mediterranean – a bright and breezy space with a touch of Mornington Peninsula flair.

The centrepiece is the food where you can order stunning meze style favourites including both traditional and modern dishes. While their food is unmistakably modern Greek, they aim to source as much local produce as possible such as honey, coffee, domestic olive oil, seafood, lamb, goat and wine.

The meze style menu is full of mouth watering delights – saganaki, fried calamari with harissa aoili, chargrilled octopus with wild fennel, fava and pickles, slow roasted lamb shoulder with caper berries, dill, cucumber, saltbush and Moussaka.

There are loads of delicious side dishes, and kids are well catered for, as are those with a sweet tooth. Jacqui is also happy to welcome guests for any occasion, from family get togethers to casual, spontaneous dining and special occasions and celebrations.

While the flavours are from afar, all of the produce is Australian – and locally grown where possible – including local seafood, seasonal fruits, olive oil, coffee, and lamb and goat from Gippsland.

The wine list is concise yet impressive, with a strong focus on local Mornington Peninsula white and red varietals and an offering of Greek red and white wines too. You’ll find local beers along with Mythos Greek Lager and a Volkan Santorini Pilsner. Or you can always drop in for a Greek Iced Coffee Frappe, or perhaps make that ouzo?

New for Spring and rolling into Summer is Alatonero’s take away offering. Drop-in or call in advance to order your favourites loaded with Greek goodness – perfect for the beachside picnic or to take home on those busy days where cooking isn’t fathomable. Take away is available lunch and dinner Wednesday through to Sunday.

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Butterfly Retreats, Red Hill

Kate Donnelly — Fri, 17 May 2024 05:24:40 +0000

Butterfly Retreats in Red Hill is an experience for the whole family. Set on four acres of cleared grassland with mature European trees, fruit trees and an olive grove, there is something special to experience everywhere you wander throughout this picturesque property. Nestled between Lindenderry at Red Hill and Eldridge Estate, the property is flanked by vineyards providing a colourful vista ever changing with the seasons.

Owned by the Russo family, the concept for the property evolved from Claire Russo, who at the age of 31 was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. With the support of her husband, two young children and extended family, Claire harnessed her illness and won the battle, and turned her victory into Butterfly Fitness and subsequently Butterfly Retreats – the thyroid is shaped like a butterfly and hence the name. Set in the centre of Red Hill, the Butterfly Retreats property abounds with quinces, several varieties of apples, olives, macadamias, pomegranates, figs, a vegetable plot with zucchinis, tomatoes, corn, kale and more, large areas of lawn, a fairy garden, oranges and lemons in the 85 year old citrus grove and even ancient Shakespearian fruit tree called a medlar.

Butterfly Retreats offers an accommodation and getaway experience for large groups, comfortably sleeping nine people with the facility to accommodate any number of people as long as they can fit (air mattresses are supplied at an additional rate for the length of the stay). The large, comfortable and stylishly decorated home has been designed with family and friends in mind. And while there are lots of activities to enjoy within easy reach of the property (restaurants, wineries, cafes, bushwalks and the ocean), the Russo family have made sure you can easily occupy adults and children for days without ever having to leave. Bookshelves are filled with dvds, board games and novels, and there’s an entertainment area and a cosy fireplace.

Outdoor activities are very well catered for, with an outdoor games room that has a table tennis table, basket ball shoot out, pool table, darts and more, and an outdoor games cupboard comes complete with bocce, badminton and boules ready to set up on the vast lawn . Tennis racquets are also supplied for use at the nearby tennis club to which guests have access. There’s an outdoor bar, plus cushions, deck chairs and a picnic set and blankets, so long sunny days are all set. The kids will be outside playing all day, or be hanging out in the games room, so you might not see them for hours. (Walkie Talkies are on hand so you can keep in touch). And for the icing on the cake? A complimentary Johnny Ripe apple pie awaits your arrival.

The Russo family has big plans for Butterfly Retreats. Very much focused on the local community, they will soon be opening Butterfly Gallery and Studios where they will hold exhibitions for local artists as well as collaborative events. Claire will also be holding fitness retreats and classes under her Butterfly Fitness brand, which will be a very welcome addition to the surrounding community and provide a wonderful experience for visitors, travellers and tourists. Guests at the property are welcome to use the on-site facilities, with a fully equipped personal training studio that offers a range of training options including spin bikes, a rower, boxing, kettlebells, barbells and weights. Training sessions and bootcamps can be arranged in advance with Claire Russo who is a qualified personal trainer, or you can make a weekend of it by booking in to a complete Fitness Retreat.

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South Beach, Mount Martha

Kate Donnelly — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 07:55:20 +0000

Some places don’t need to announce themselves. They just settle in quietly and, over time, become part of the landscape — the kind of venue you return to without overthinking it. South Beach, Mount Martha one of those places even more so after it’s recent renovation.

Perched just above Mount Martha South Beach, with uninterrupted views across Port Phillip Bay and out to the Melbourne skyline, South Beach feels naturally anchored to its setting. The elevation matters. The light matters. The way the space opens to the elements — without being exposed to them — matters too. It’s coastal dining done properly, without fuss or performance.

What’s immediately noticeable is how easy it feels to be here. Plenty of natural light. Open indoor–outdoor seating protected from wind and weather. Tables positioned to take in the view rather than compete with it. You’re not rushed. You’re not squeezed in. The pace is relaxed, but purposeful — and that’s no accident.

This is what we talk about when we refer to Uncompromised & Ambient Experiences. Places that protect how it feels to be there. South Beach understands that atmosphere isn’t something you decorate after the fact — it’s something you design into the bones of a space. Warmth, light, airflow, sightlines, acoustics, and service all working together so patrons can simply arrive and exhale.

The setting does a lot of the heavy lifting. Below, Mount Martha South Beach stretches out in front of you — swimmers, walkers, early risers and sunset seekers moving through the day. To one side sits Dominion Road Park and the Mount Martha Tennis Club, creating a rare sense of openness and community. Kids play. Parents linger. Friends meet before or after a swim, a walk, a hit of tennis. South Beach feels stitched into the fabric of local life rather than placed on top of it.

Food and drink follow the same philosophy. Fresh, coastal flavours designed to suit the rhythm of the day — whether that’s breakfast with a view, a long lunch that drifts, or afternoon plates shared as the light softens. The menu doesn’t shout. It doesn’t need to. It’s thoughtful, approachable, and made to be enjoyed in good company.

As the day moves on, the venue subtly shifts gears. Long afternoons ease into golden hour. Drinks land on the table. Plates are shared. Conversations stretch. This is where Connected Experiences come into play — not as a concept, but as something felt.

South Beach is a place where people genuinely come together. Locals. Visitors. Families. Friends. Regulars who know the staff by name. It encourages connection without forcing it. Indoors and out, there’s room to sit, stand, lean, laugh and stay longer than planned. Phones tend to disappear. Time loosens its grip.

There’s also a quiet versatility to the space. While it works beautifully for everyday dining, it’s equally suited to life’s bigger moments — weddings, private celebrations, milestone gatherings — occasions that benefit from a setting that feels special without being overbearing. The view becomes the backdrop. The coast becomes the constant.

What South Beach, Mount Martha does particularly well is resist over-definition. It doesn’t try to be everything to everyone yet somehow manages to welcome all. It’s relaxed without being casual. Polished without being precious. Coastal without leaning into cliché.

In a region spoiled for choice, South Beach earns its place by understanding something simple but often overlooked: when a venue gets the environment right, everything else falls into line.

It’s not about reinvention. It’s about refinement.

And that’s why it works.

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Volpino, Mount Martha

Kate Donnelly — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 04:23:49 +0000

Volpino is about three mates (Simon, Nathan and Samuel) with an ambition to create a destination in the heart of Mt Martha village that is more than just food – it’s about fun, food and enjoyment – an experience you can depend on every time you visit.

With a strong emphasis on fresh and local produce, Volpino offers an array of Mediterranean inspired seasonal dishes to compliment the classic wood fired pizzas that are a mainstay of this vibrant, beachside venue. The deck is super sized and a perfect place to soak up the winters sun, unwind and dine alfresco with friends, family or as a couple. Add a unique, hand selected wine list and you have the perfect ingredients for a memorable day or night out. To borrow a famous Australian phrase, it’s all about the vibe and it’s this attitude that inspires us to follow the boys from Volpino.

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Sunday Garden Tours at Cruden Farm

Kate Donnelly — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 02:36:12 +0000

21 August 2022, 10:00 AM to 21 August 2022, 4:00 PM

Once a month on a Sunday, Cruden Farm welcomes people to take a tour or just come for the day and have a leisurely stroll around the gardens and farm. You are welcome to bring a picnic.

Please refer to the website link to book your tickets which must be pre-purchased for the Garden Tour.

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Wandana 2.3 Acres

Kate Donnelly — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:05:22 +0000

Unveiling a breathtaking top-to-tail transformation executed with an exquisite eye for detail, this spacious home on 2.3 acres with a separate studio, brand-new swimming pool and huge aquaponic greenhouse achieves a harmonious synergy between serene country living and stunning contemporary design.

Timeless farmhouse features meet modern accoutrements to create character and appeal throughout the residence, which features separate living and dining zones basking in radiant north-facing light with an enclosed fireplace and split-system air conditioning for all-season comfort.

Matte-black tapware, shaker cabinetry and high-end stainless-steel appliances define the elegant kitchen, while glass sliders open to an expansive north-facing outdoor entertaining area to host friends in the open air as the kids make a splash in the pool, feed the ponies in the stable or pick fruit in the orchard.

Set to spoil parents, the master bedroom with new wool carpeting is complemented by a heated-floor ensuite and alfresco clawfoot tub in this dreamy homestead, which includes a contemporary family bathroom and an ensuite with composting toilet in the studio or home office.

With a glamping site partially established in the eastern paddock there is scope for income on the short-stay accommodation market, while the close proximity to a choice of primary schools, Western Port Secondary College, Bittern town centre and the major shopping of Hastings just a few minutes’ drive away will delight permanent residents.

Among a long list of extras, this wonderful property includes a tack room, powered and plumbed workshop, menage awaiting restoration, paddock irrigation, a small dam, an outdoor shower and a double garage behind electronic gated entry.

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The Red Hill Market

Kate Donnelly — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 00:24:50 +0000

Red Hill is the ‘grand dame’ of Victoria’s craft markets. Located in one of the State’s most picturesque settings, Red Hill Community Market started in 1975 as a community based event where 28 local producers and crafts people came to sell and barter their goods and excess produce.

While the bartering is a thing of the past, the atmosphere, colour and excitement of those early years is still very much alive. Soak in the exceptional atmosphere and regenerate your senses at one of our delightful markets. There is something for everyone from old world to modern contemporary, a labyrinth of unique treasures worth discovering.

Dedicated commitment to quality brings together over 300 talented stallholders who regularly demonstrate enormous pride in their work by producing original creations of the highest quality. It’s a proven feast for the mind, body and soul, a fascinating eclectic mix of textures, materials and colours that make up the vast range of individually designed products.

There is little doubt that the Red Hill Community Market is the place to be, so set the alarm clock nice and early if you want to avoid the crowds. An early arrival will also ensure you miss the long queue’s that form at the stalls selling tiny pancakes and other tasty breakfast treats.

$5 Parking fee, with all proceeds going to the Red Hill Lions Club.

Please respect that dogs are not permitted at the market.

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The Mount Martha Briars Market

Kate Donnelly — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 00:05:23 +0000

Situated at one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most beloved and iconic locations, the upcoming Briars Craft and Produce Market will no doubt be a lovely family day out.

Visitors will discover a range of home-made, home-grown products, all while exploring the beautiful grounds, wildlife, walking trails, galleries and heritage homestead of the historic Briars.

Purchase the freshest produce, the most unique gifts and the most innovative homewares from across the region and engage with our talented stallholders, all of whom love their craft.

The fun doesn’t end when the market wraps up – why not make a day of it, and when you’ve finished exploring the market’s wares, let your feet lead the way through the historic twists and turns of The Briars’ walking trails.

Click ‘Visit Website’ below for more information on The Mount Martha Briars Market, as well as other Craft Markets Australia markets to be held within the beautiful Mornington Peninsula region.

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SANDPIPER

Kate Donnelly — Sun, 26 Jan 2020 02:38:38 +0000

Set on a huge 1600sqm allotment and barely a 10-minute stroll to serene Honeysuckle beach and a little further along the beach to the Pt Leo Surf Lifesaving Club, this coastal gem has options to build a brand new home or renovate and extend the existing residence.

Offering three bedrooms and a distinctive architectural vibe, the timber-clad home spread over four levels is yet to be completed inside offering plenty of chance to add your own flair.

With bay glimpses from the upper level, cooling summer breezes and a cosy woodheater for the winter months, there is huge scope to capitalise on this fantastic location.

Alternatively, start again and build a magnificent new home with room for a pool and a sensational outdoor entertaining area featuring the hum of the waves in the distance.

Just a short drive to shops and services at Flinders and Balnarring, even closer to a huge selection of wineries and restaurants and barely an hour from the city, seize the chance to discover why Shoreham is such a sought-after holiday spot on the Mornington Peninsula’s quiet side.

Sandpiper will be available for inspection after February 3.

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