Regional spotlight - Mornington Peninsula

December 14, 2023

Want a change of scenery for your next conference? Planning a board planning retreat or a team building getaway to regional Victoria? Maybe you’re looking for the next exciting corporate reward trip for your top employees…. Whatever type of business event you have in mind – Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula has all you need and more.

Here are some ideas of where you can meet, stay and play for the ultimate regional Victoria experience.

Intercontinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula

Dive into planning and strategy at this iconic seaside hotel, where a fresh ocean breeze will invigorate delegates or staff.

Or spoil your staff to the max with a lux getaway in a property known for nostalgic glamour and premium facilities, where guests can truly unwind and clear the mind.

A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the vibrant seaside village of Sorrento stretches from Port Phillip to the open ocean, a relaxing getaway amongst a backdrop of world-class food, wine, and culture.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a conference or meeting

Located in the limestone Heritage Wing, the Intercontinental Sorrento’s Art Deco-inspired event spaces offer breathtaking views of the foreshore and stylish furnishings bathed in natural light.

The Gallery is perfect for an elegant meeting or intimate event, with large windows flood the room with natural light and provide ocean views. While Halcyon Hall boasts an extravagant Art Deco interior and ornate chandeliers Their largest event space, Halcyon Hall is lined with lofty windows and French doors, revealing ocean views and opening onto Sunset Terrace.

For larger groups, the Grand Ballroom offers a spectacular Art Deco style ballroom that effortlessly weaves historic glamour with modern style.

Whether you’re treating your staff to the ultimate reward getaway or looking for delicious dining options for your meeting – the Intercontinental Sorrento has plenty to offer…

The Sunset Terrace: This refined yet carefree space can be booked in conjunction with Halcyon Hall and offers room to mingle and entertain, with breathtaking ocean views.

Audreys by Scott Pickett: Intercontinental Sorrento offer delegates an unparalleled culinary experience at Audrey’s by Scott Pickett.

Fresh seafood and sophisticated surrounds await at this bold expression of refined coastal dining. An iconic space reminiscent of 1920s glamour, Audrey’s is situated in their historic limestone Heritage building and features both an elegant dining room, and private dining space with sweeping views of Sorrento Village and the foreshore.

Play and unwind

When your meetings are done for the day, or you’ve filled time exploring the Mornington Peninsula’s wineries, award-winning restaurants, stunning beaches and quaint villages, delegates can bask in the sun at the Mediterranean pool deck and sip a refreshing beverage or two.

Indulge in their premium rooms and enjoy the complimentary in-room bar, featuring a seasonal line up of locally distilled spirits, wine or boutique brews.

Or escape into a world of serene luxury and personal wellness, with a soothing massage at Aurora Spa & Bathhouse or a workout in their fully equipped Fitness Centre.

Other ideas for accommodation and meeting venues

There are plenty of choices for accommodation and places to meet on the Mornington Peninsula. Consider the lux Jackalope Hotel, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill, RACV Cape Schank or The Dunes Golf Links & Lodge.

Activities for a decadent staff incentive reward program

Get your staff excited about 2024 targets with the allure of a reward trip to the Mornington Peninsula. Here is an idea of what you could do…

Food and wine is an obvious starting point if The Age 2023 Good Food Guide Awards is anything to go by. With two hats to their name, both Ten Minutes By Tractor in Main Ridge and Todesca Osteria in Mornington Peninsula’s Red Hill have continued to uphold their exceptional dining experiences. A total of ten Mornington Peninsula restaurants were awarded a distinguished one hat, including that of Doot Doot Doot at Jackalope Hotel, Paringa Estate, Polperro Winery, Port Phillip Estate, Rare Hare, the Restaurant At Montalto, Cape Restaurant at RACV Cape Schanck Resort and Audrey’s at The Continental Sorrento. 

Here are some more ideas for you to consider when planning your program of activities…

Lunch at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill

If there ever was a place for you to rest and dream, it is Lindenderry Red Hill by Lancemore. Set on 34 stunning acres of gardens and vines, the 40-room luxury boutique hotel is ideally positioned to soak up the spectacular Mornington Peninsula’s pure-sand beaches, soul enriching nature, artisan produce and cool climate wines.

Dinner at Pt. Leo Estate – where art meets the sea

Pt. Leo Estate is a captivating celebration of internationally acclaimed art, design and world-class dining and wine, providing the most sought-after cultural and culinary experience in Australia. Here, delegates will be treated to dinner at Laura, Pt. Leo Estate's most refined expression of dining that focuses on the very best ingredients. Each dish and their selection of wines are carefully considered, ensuring your visit is as authentic and beautiful as our surroundings.

Strawberry picking at Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm

Pick juicy strawberries at Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm. Rocky Creek is a fourth generation property operated by the Gallace family. Spoil yourself with their famous, freshly made ice-cream, and scrumptious strawberry desserts or Devonshire tea with freshly made scones, homemade jam and fresh, local cream – delicious!

Soak in natural geo-thermal hot springs

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to the rejuvenating benefits of Victoria’s thermal spa trail. On the Mornington Peninsula you can soak up all the goodness at either Peninsular Hot Springs or Alba Thermal Springs & Spa.

Fresh air and wine on a Cycling Vine Tour

Go on a guided group Cycling Vine Tour of the Mornington Peninsula’s wineries. Begin your cycle at Arthurs Seat with stunning views over Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne’s city skyline. Cycle on safe country lanes, shared paths and The Merricks-Red Hill Rail Trail. Pedal past vineyards, berry farms, cheesemakers, local breweries and stunning coastal scenery. Try local Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays the area has become famous for. Take time to immerse yourself in this beautiful coastal region; taste fresh produce, food and wine on your journey.

Play a round of golf

Experience tee-off time at one of the many golf courses across the Mornington Peninsula, many who are ranked in the top 100 golf courses across Australia.

Craft rum tasting at JimmyRum

Pay a visit to JimmyRum – a craft rum distillery where you can experience a guided tasting and enjoy a signature cocktail with a bite to eat in the outdoor rum garden.

Scent library experience and candle making

Spend an afternoon at Red Hill Candle Co for a scent blending and candle making workshop. Red Hill Candle Co produces eco-friendly soy candles, room sprays and diffusers that locals and visitors alike love. Their in-store fragrance experience is a first of its kind in Victoria. The Scent Library is filled with 40 individual fragrances where visitors can choose a custom blend of 2-3 fragrances to make a unique blend. The team will then talk through the process of blending a candle fragrance and making a unique candle.

Getting to the Mornington Peninsula

Consider reaching out to one of the Melbourne Convention Bureau partners. Go by coach with Murrays, fly like a rockstar in a fleet of helicopters with Microflite, or for a small group travel in lux style with Luxcoach.

Ask MCB for free tailored advice

Get in touch with our helpful team for free advice and assistance to build the perfect conference, meeting or incentive reward program on the Mornington Peninsula. MCB can assist with building out your itinerary, supplier recommendations and RFPs, site inspections and more.