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Start your Phillip Island getaway early with the scenic stops on Bass Coast's wine and food trail

Kick off your Phillip Island trip by exploring Bass Coast gems - wineries, award-winning cheese, fresh produce, and family fun at Maru Koala and Animal Park await just before the island bridge.

By news@gippsland - 28th October 2024 - Back to News

We can't think of anyone who doesn't love a weekend away to Phillip Island, but why not start the holiday early by stopping in at these gems along the way. There's a small pocket of Bass Coast goodness between Melbourne's outer reaches and the bridge to the island that needs to be on your radar, particularly for stock-pilling goodies for your getaway. Sample cheese so good it won a gold medal, and drinking wine and limoncello while gazing out at the rolling hills of the Bass Coast.

Visit Corinella's cosy Fig and the Bay Cafe, or head inland to Bass River Winery for local wines, limoncello, and European vibes amidst vineyard hills

Gourmet Gippsland getaway

The first thing on your itinerary should be The Gurdies Winery (The Gurdies), where you can stock up on lush red wines and crisp rose. Swing by for a tasting, or BYO picnic in their amazing grounds, with extensive lawns, BBQ and giant games. The views over Westernport Bay between the vines are next level.

Further down the road, in Corinella, you'll find the charming Fig and the Bay Cafe, located in the stunning Heritage Bay Estate where the atmosphere is only matched by the delicious menu. Further inland, nestled among the hills is Bass River Winery (Glen Forbes), where every drop is made from fruit produced in the sprawling vineyards. A family-owned business, they even make limoncello and grappa, leaving you feeling like you're on a European getaway.

Nearby, Macca's Farm offers fresh produce, free-range meats, and seasonal cafe bites straight from the farm

Cheese and farmyard delights

You cannot visit the region without stopping in at Bassine Specialty Cheeses (Glen Forbes) for some indulgent bries and camemberts. Established in 1966, these folks know what they are doing, recently winning a Gold Medal for their fresh Whole Milk at the Dairy Industry Australia competition.

Nearby you will find Macca's Farm (Glen Forbes), where you can load up on fresh produce, free-range meats and pick-your-own strawberries. Stop in at the cafe for a bite to eat (open over summer) - their seasonal menu uses ingredients straight from the farm.

Visit Maru Koala and Animal Park in Grantville with your kids to hand-feed koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies, then enjoy Pirate Pete's mini golf and bistro dining

Wildlife and mini-golf

If you're heading to Phillip Island with the kiddos, don't skip the Maru Koala and Animal Park (Grantville). At this magical wildlife wonderland, you can hand feed and pat koalas, kangaroos and wallabies, listen to keeper talks and see other incredible animals like dingoes and quolls. Once you have met all the animals in the park, head to Pirate Pete's mini golf adventure, followed by a meal at the bistro.

Pictures from Visit Gippsland website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com