Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are a dream for food lovers, where coastal charm meets incredible local produce, award-winning wineries, and top-tier restaurants. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, or a perfectly paired glass of wine, this weekend itinerary will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival & Indulgence in Geelong 🍽️
Brunch at a Local Favourite ☕
Kick off your foodie weekend with brunch at King of the Castle, a Geelong institution known for its creative dishes and specialty coffee. Try the miso mushrooms on sourdough or the house-made crumpets with honeycomb butter.
Explore the Waterfront & a Sweet Stop 🍦
After brunch, take a scenic stroll along the Geelong Waterfront, where you can soak in views of Corio Bay. Treat yourself to Freckleberry Chocolate Factory for handcrafted chocolate delights or grab a gelato from Augustus Gelatery—their locally inspired flavours are a must-try.
Lunch & Wine at Jack Rabbit Vineyard 🍷
A short drive to the Bellarine Peninsula takes you to Jack Rabbit Vineyard, where stunning vineyard and bay views meet a top-notch menu. Their seafood dishes shine, especially when paired with a glass of estate-grown Chardonnay or Pinot Noir.
Afternoon Brewery Stop 🍺
For a change of pace, visit Little Creatures Brewery back in Geelong. Tour the brewery, sample their iconic Pale Ale, and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with share plates and wood-fired pizzas.
Dinner at Tulip 🍷
End the day at Tulip, an intimate dining experience that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Their share-plate menu offers a mix of modern and classic flavours—think black angus and fresh seafood with creative twists.
Day 2: Exploring the Bellarine’s Best Bites 🍇
Breakfast at Piknik 🍳
Housed in a former roadhouse in Swan Bay, Piknik is a local favourite for its hearty breakfast options and house-baked goods. The corn fritters with avocado salsa are a standout.
Farmgate & Provedore Finds 🧀
Spend the morning hopping between some of the Bellarine’s best food producers:
Griggs Creek Providore 🍳 – Supporting local farmers and businesses with fresh, locally-grown food
The Farmgate Bellarine 🍓 – Pick up fresh seasonal produce, from berries to organic veggies
Manzanillo Grove 🌿 – Try locally produced olive oils, perfect for taking a taste of the Bellarine home
Lunch & Wine Tasting at Terindah Estate 🍷
For a relaxed long lunch, head to Terindah Estate, where the views stretch across Port Phillip Bay. Their cellar door experience pairs estate-grown wines with gourmet share plates, featuring the best of the region’s produce.
Afternoon Cider & Gin 🍏 🍸
On your way back, make a stop at Flying Brick Cider Co. for refreshing, naturally brewed ciders. If you’re a gin lover, visit The Whiskery, a boutique distillery crafting small-batch gins with local botanicals.
A Final Feast at The Q Train 🚂
Cap off your foodie weekend with a one-of-a-kind dining experience aboard The Q Train. This restored heritage train offers a multi-course degustation as you travel along the Bellarine Railway, with each dish heroing the region’s finest ingredients.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip 🗺️
🚗 Getting There: Geelong is just an hour’s drive from Melbourne via the Princes Freeway, or you can take the V/Line train for a scenic and relaxed ride
🏡 Where to Stay: For a luxury retreat, check out Lon Retreat & Spa for stunning coastal views, or opt for a boutique stay in Geelong at R Hotel Geelong
🚕 Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore the Bellarine Peninsula, but if you’d rather not drive, book a wine tour with Bellarine Winery Tours to visit multiple cellar doors stress-free
📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a foodie getaway
A Weekend to Savour 🍷🍽️
From award-winning wineries to farm gate finds and unforgettable dining experiences, Geelong and the Bellarine serve up a weekend full of flavour. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining, sipping local wines, or discovering artisan treats, this escape is sure to leave you craving a return visit.