Embark on a cobble-stoned shopping trip through Mornington Peninsula

Published on 25th August 2015 in Blog, Holiday Tips and Advice, Mornington Peninsula Activities

Oozing charm as though they have sprung forth from the pages of a Victorian novel, the shopping villages in Mornington Peninsula boast cobble-stoned streets dotted with cafes, boutiques and market stalls. 

The region has more than 30 seaside and hinterland villages, resplendent with restaurants, art galleries and local produce carts. There are both high street shops as well as larger malls and shopping complexes.

Port Phillip Bay, Western Port Bay, Mount Eliza, Mount Martha, Dromana, Rosebud, Rye and Mornington villages all have a particularly historical vibe, making the shopping trip feel like a journey back in time. People staying in the area can easily visit most of these villages within the course of a day, as it only takes 30 minutes to drive from one end of the peninsula to the other. 

The charming cafes and alfresco restaurants dotted throughout the streets are great for lunch or coffee. The charming cafes and alfresco restaurants dotted throughout the streets are great for lunch or coffee.

Seaside shopping

Running along the sandy coastline of Port Phillip Bay are the seaside villages of Dromana, Rosebud, Rye, McCrae and Tootgarook. With broad pavements laced with trees that offer shade from the sun, strolling through the stores of each village is an enjoyable activity. 

The seaside town of Sorrento was Victoria's first British settlement in 1803, and its rustic limestone buildings complement beautifully with the modern day architecture. This strip has some of the more high-end and designer stores. Alternatively, those with a penchant for antique goods can travel to Red Hill House and Tree 1 in Flinders for the ultimate vintage finds. 

Meander through the markets

If you desire browsing through quality hand-made and one-of-a-kind products, there are several markets to visit running throughout the peninsula. Renowned for taking place on the chic racecourse, the Mornington Racecourse Market takes place on the second Sunday of each month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. come rain or shine. Farmers sell their produce and local artisans and crafts are on display. 

The Main Street Market Mornington has been a regular occurrence every Wednesday since April 1983, making it a special part of the local history. Meeting and greeting the makers of gourmet food, children's toys, craft goods and fashion will be sure to spring up some enjoyable conversation. Best of all, the Main Street leads directly to the soft, sandy beach, so you can dip your toes in the water for some comfort after hours of walking through the shops!

Relax and unwind at the beach leading off Main Street in Mornington after an afternoon of shopping.Relax and unwind at the beach leading off Main Street in Mornington after an afternoon of shopping.

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