Explore Bellarine

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Bellarine Rail Trail 

Cycle along the Bellarine Rail Trail taking in the native plants and birdlife along the path from Leopold, through Drysdale and finishing at Queenscliff Railway Station. 

The trail is mostly flat with a gradual climb in some areas. If you're looking to avoid the return uphill climb from Queenscliff to Mannerim, you might hop on the steam train for a different Bellarine experience on your return trip.

Shelter and toilet facilities are accessible along the trail at:

  • Christies Road, Leopold
  • Drysdale Railway Station Picnic Area

Bellarine Railway

Explore the historic Bellarine railway with a range of different train experiences available throughout the year, whether you're looking for a daytime activity for the whole family, a dining experience of an evening or a night of live music, there is something for everyone!

Find out more about family friendly train rides along the railway here.

The Q Train offers a 3 hour return train journey from Drysdale to Queenscliff and back, offering a dining experience like no other. Find out more here.

The Blues Train starts and finishes in Queenscliff, travelling around Swan Bay on the Bellarine Railway. Enjoy dinner before the train departs and then sit back and enjoy a range of musical performances or perhaps test your balance and join the dance floor in Carriage D. Find out more here.

Walking Trails and Nature Reserves

Explore the walking trails and picnic spots along the Bellarine including:

 • The new walking path and accessible picnic area along the coastline at Beacon Point.

 • Discover Bellarine's largest patch of non-coastal indigenous vegetation along the walking trails at Ocean Grove Nature Reserve ranging from 500m to 3km, stopping at the picnic area along the way. Echidnas, swamp wallabies and turtles can be spotted throughout the reserve as well as wildflowers and the endangered Bellarine Yellow Gum.

 • Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve protects the last of coastal woodland on the Bellarine Peninsula. The Two Bays Lookout at Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve provides great views of Port Phillip and Swan Bay, and the number of walks throughout the reserve offer the opportunity to explore remote beaches and breathtaking views.

Basin Reserve offers a small circuit trail around the reserve that provide opportunities to stop and take in the surroundings, including a platform that showcases views of the Peninsula.

Portarlington Ferry

Sail from Portarlington to Melbourne and back with Port Phillip Ferries. 

Enjoy fresh sea air and stunning coastal views, on the twice-daily crossings or delight in their special events and dining and tour packages. Find out more here.

 

St Leonards Pier

Visit St Leonards Pier, a popular spot for fishing and snorkelling.

Enjoy a coffee from Sirens Boathouse and Kiosk and walk along the coastline or explore the township of St Leonards. 

Bellarine Food Businesses

Explore the many farmgates, cafes, restaurants, wineries and distilleries across the Bellarine showcasing locally grown produce.

Find out more about where to visit on the Bellarine.

Queenscliffe Maritime Museum

Learn about Queenscliff’s maritime heritage and hear tales of shipwrecks and rescues.

To find out how to view their Pilot Vessel Mavis III exhibit or book into decode clues in the escape room visit the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum website.

Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve

Explore the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve and learn about the history, shipwrecks, and treacherous waters of The Rip.

Barwon Heads River

Explore the Barwon River with a kayak, stand up paddle board or boat.

Walk along the riverbank, visiting the jetties, rock pools and fishing spots.