Tim McGlone

Feast on shellfish plucked fresh from the bay, and explore the source of Portarlington’s famous mussels, with a fifth generation sea farmer and his luxe Huon-pine trawler. There are plenty of local wines and eats on board, too.

About an hour from Melbourne, the Kyneton Springs Motel has undergone a retro refurbishment that channels the absolute best of old-school California. There’s pastel hues and an on-site bar, plus plenty of kitsch-cool all over.

In Metung, it’s an ambitious new project from the Peninsula Hot Springs team (but it’s nowhere near as crowded as the Fingal site). You’ll find bathing barrels for one, lagoon-side glamping and a lush country club with yum cha.

On a hilltop escarpment in East Gippsland, it’s the latest venture from the team behind the wildly popular Peninsula Hot Springs. Here’s what else to expect (including a planned floating sauna).

Including loaves, danishes and croissants that take five days to make. Since opening this dedicated spot in mid-2020, the team behind Ket Baker has been making waves – and pulling crowds – on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Beeline for this 134-year-old coastal gem, check in to one of 18 elegant new rooms (some with bay-view balconies), then head downstairs to the charming bistro for a pot brimming with the town’s famous mussels.