10 of our Favourite Mornington Peninsula Venues
Our little boutique photography business is based on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, just an hour outside of Melbourne.
We’re so lucky to have had the pleasure of eating at, working at and visiting some of the most beautiful venues along the coast. So we thought it was time we told you about them!
If you’re thinking about planning a Mornington Peninsula wedding, here are some of our absolute fave venues to host your special day. Everything from casual country style cocktail parties to elegant winery weddings, this list has you covered.
Tanglewood Estate, Dromana
We love this venue. It’s the perfect picturesque hideaway set on over 50 acres of beautiful gardens and vineyard. You can choose to have your ceremony in the lovingly restored 110 year old chapel, or out in one of the many stunning spots on the grounds. There’s a studio for pre/post ceremony drinks, a barn for your reception or the option of setting up a marquee or teepee anywhere on the grounds. The options are endless and all have the loveliest feel, so whether you’re hosting an intimate lunchtime affair or a wild into-the-night party, we promise you won’t be disappointed!
Jackalope, Merricks North
Everything about Jackalope Hotel is undeniably wow. It’s luxury accommodation, fine dining, vineyard and stunning event space all in one. The views from the terrace are amazing (and make the perfect ceremony backdrop) and you can opt for a complete hotel buyout for exclusive use of the entire property. A memorable spot to have your wedding day for so many reasons.
Polperro, Red Hill
Ahh Polperro, this one’s a real beauty. Nestled among the vines and spanning 25 acres in the popular wine region of Red Hill, Polperro is warm and comforting and wonderful. You can choose to have an intimate wedding in the restaurant or opt for a marquee celebration out on the grounds. They even have a 3 bedroom farmhouse where you can stay, and luxury villas on the property for your guests. The owners of this beautiful space have multiple businesses in the region and they can honestly do no wrong - a must visit for the food and wine at the very least!
Merricks General Wine Store, Merricks
This post office and general store turned bistro and cellar door is the epitome of warm and friendly country hospitality. Host a seated dinner or a cocktail party, with windows overlooking the cottage garden and space for the ceremony onsite on the lawn. Great food, great wine and a truly lovely setting, what more could you want!
Port Phillip Estate, Red Hill South
Spectacular views, extraordinary food and acclaimed wines - Port Phillip Estate is a beautiful venue for a slightly more formal style of wedding. Have your ceremony out on the deck and your photos taken wandering the vineyards, plus the option to book accommodation for you and your guests on site. A really luxe and lovely experience.
Tedesca Osteria, Red Hill
Rach and I love this little space so much we’d have our own wedding here if we could do it all again! The food is to die for and the open kitchen feels so warm and inviting, it’s like dining at a friend’s house. The menu is always changing depending on what local produce is available in the area, and there are so many spots nearby that would be perfect for the ceremony. Even the playlist at the restaurant was beautiful when we dined there for my birthday lunch, and really set the tone for the space. So much to love!
The Epicurean, Red Hill
This one’s a long standing favourite, it really is incredible. The Epicurean can help you with a wedding for 20 all the way up to 220 in their multi functional space - big weddings in the large rustic shed or smaller celebrations in the barrel room. They’re famous for their cucina style cuisine and warm, casual setting - so another one to put on your list for lunch when you’re out venue hunting for the weekend! It’s a Red Hill institution, we love it here.
Alatonero, McCrae
Fancy taking a trip to the Greek Islands for your big day? Alatonero is the venue for you. It’s a gorgeous Greek restaurant opposite the beach in McCrae and the whole space can be hired out for your wedding day. It’s bright, breezy and bursting with the colours of the Mediterranean. You can have cocktails and canapés on the deck, then move inside for a lavish Greek feast (back outside to dance the night away under the stars of course!). There might not be enough room here for a ceremony, but we can help you with some location ideas for that (shoot us an email!).
Montalto, Red Hill South
Warm and relaxed dining set on a stunning estate with grape vines and unique sculptures as far as the eye can see. We love this beautiful winery space! It’s light and bright and focuses on showcasing the very best of the region - scenery, wines and produce. Gorgeous photos guaranteed and a really lovely, friendly experience. Not to mention options for intimate weddings and an outdoor ceremony - perfect!
Red Gum BBQ, Red Hill
Lucky last is this American Style BBQ restaurant that can be transformed into the most charming, rustic, personalised space for your special day. The huge barn can accommodate sit down or cocktail style receptions (and ceremony in the one location if you like!) and you can honestly style it as much or as little as suits you - it’s the ultimate blank canvas. Let’s not forget all the amazing craft beers on tap and the food is just incredible. It’s no wonder these guys have taken home the Australian Good Food Guide’s Best in Region award year after year!
What do you think? Feeling inspired to book a Mornington Peninsula venue for your big day? Or maybe you’re just keen to take a weekend trip for lunch? With so many beautiful spaces and styles, we just know you’re going to find something you love. Of course, if you have any questions or if we can help you with any other recommendations please don’t hesitate to shoot us an email - we’d love to help!