After a hectic start to the year, leading interior and event stylist Steve Cordony leapt at the chance to visit the stunning Mornington Peninsula an hour south of Melbourne. Planning a luxe trip ahead, it seemed appropriate Cordony made the journey in a satin gold new Range Rover. After a memorable break, Cordony has shared his favourite spots to visit in this gorgeous part of the world.

The Mornington Peninsula is spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. Start the day with a freshly roasted coffee at Commonfolk cafe. For a taste of old world elegance, along with views over Sorrento, Audrey’s is a special dining experience. Polperro in Red Hill has been awarded a hat in The Age Good Food Guide 2023 and offers exquisite wines created at their own vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula. The wines at Foxy’s Hangout are all grown on the peninsula too, and the team offers a light lunch of small plates to share in their cellar door. And in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula wine region, you’ll find one of Australia’s most exciting food and wine destinations, Port Phillip Estate.

Renowned for its natural beauty, the Mornington Peninsula has many rewards for the curious explorer. Mount Martha is where the bush meets the coast, and provides a safe swimming spot with rows of colourful bathing boxes. Scenic Sorrento beach is known for its rock pools and ledges, which can be explored at low tide. Work off your dining indulgences by doing the Bushrangers Bay Walk, which meanders through coastal and swamp scrub before dropping down into beautiful Bushrangers Bay. Walk or cycle through the rugged coastal landscape of Point Nepean, which has a history spanning thousands of years to the Bunurong people.

It’s not all about the great outdoors on the peninsula, with a diverse range of stores enticing visitors inside. White Nest is a vibrant lifestyle concept store in Blairgowrie selling clothing and homewares. Emia is an elegant boutique in Sorrento stocking a carefully curated collection of brands from local designers and international brands. If you’re after a bargain, Dromana Sunday Market is the biggest weekly garage sale on the Mornington Peninsula with fresh produce, electrical goods, books, toys, clothing and second-hand goods. And for a cultural fix, make sure Curate Art & Design, a boutique art gallery, is on the itinerary.

Cordony stayed at the recently refurbished InterContinental in Sorrento, with sweeping views of the coastline, a pool deck and bar, and Aurora Spa & Bathhouse for the ultimate in relaxation. Other luxe options include Jackalope, which offers contemporary luxury with views over Willow Creek Vineyard. Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill is set over 34 breathtaking acres of gardens and vines. And for those after a beach escape, Christa Lodge in Flinders is an idyllic house just five minutes walk from the beach and Flinder Village.