The 12 secret Aussie wine regions you need to visit now

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
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Sip your way through Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Australia’s best wine experiences are hidden far from the crowds. This Easter, ditch the familiar wine trails and uncover something truly special. New research conducted by YouGov reveals that 88 per cent of Aussies want to explore lesser-known wine regions, and these hidden vines are waiting to be discovered.

Welcome to the Ascend Wine Odyssey – a heli-luxe journey through three world-class wineries in one unforgettable day.

Millennials and Gen Z are leading this wine revolution, prioritising high-quality, unique wine experiences. Visitors from Asia are also discovering these hidden gems, with Chinese tourists alone up by 82 per cent this year.

From offbeat cellar doors to quirky stays, Airbnb and wine expert Mike Bennie have handpicked Australia’s best undiscovered wine regions ready for your next grape escape. Here’s where you need to go.

1. Southern Highlands, NSW

Artemis Wines in the Southern Highlands
Artemis Wines is renowned for its pinot noir.

Just a short drive from Sydney, the Southern Highlands offer cosy cellar doors and cool-climate wines. Enjoy artisanal tastings at Artemis Wines, renowned for its pinot noir and welcoming atmosphere or indulge at Joadja Estate, the Southern Highlands’ oldest winery.

Where to stay: Sauna Haus, a luxurious Scandinavian-inspired retreat perfect for relaxing after a day of tastings.

2. Canberra District, ACT/NSW

The Barlow Tiny House in Canberra wine district
Stay at Barlow Tiny House after a day exploring vineyards. (Image: Em Callaghan)

Steeped in history and rolling hills, Canberra District boasts celebrated wineries like Helm Wines, home to award-winning riesling. Don’t miss Ravensworth for its organic approach to premium wines.

Where to stay: The charming Barlow Tiny House, perfectly nestled among scenic vineyards and farmland.

3. South Gippsland, Vic

Jacky Winter Waters in Soth Gippsland
Jacky Winter Waters is a funky stay in South Gippsland.

South Gippsland offers boutique vineyards and stunning coastal beauty. Visit Bass River Winery for exquisite pinot noir and chardonnay, or The Wine Farm for elevated, sustainable wines.

Where to stay: Jacky Winter Waters, a meditative beachfront retreat in Walkerville North.

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4. Macedon Ranges, Vic

Shadowfax Wines in the Macedon Ranges
Enjoy Shadowfax Wines’ cool-climate offerings.

Discover Macedon’s elegant wines, farmers’ markets and artistic heritage. Visit Cobaw Ridge Winery for biodynamic practices and Shadowfax Wines for standout cool-climate offerings.

Where to stay: Willowglade Retreat, a peaceful garden sanctuary in Mount Macedon.

5. Granite Belt, Qld

Granite Belt cyclist vineyards
Cycle from cellar door to cellar door in the Granite Belt. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Granite Belt is Queensland’s premier wine destination and offers a lush subtropical climate and bold wines. Boireann excels in robust reds, while Ravenscroft introduces rare grape varieties.

Where to stay: Mossy Rock Cabin in Stanthorpe, surrounded by serene natural beauty.

6. Coonawarra, SA

Bellweather cellar door in Coonawarra
Taste from the barrel at Bellweather. (Image: Tourism Australia/South Australian Tourism Commission)

World-famous for its cabernet sauvignon, Coonawarra provides rich red wines and historic charm. Visit Bellwether for immersive cellar door experiences or Raidis Estate for modern winemaking.

Where to stay: Winemakers House at The Blok, offering romantic vineyard views.

7. Riverland, SA

Wigley Retreat Airbnb in Riverland SA
Wigley Retreat is a great place to base yourself.

Perfect for family getaways, Riverland blends picturesque river views with biodynamic vineyards. Visit Whistling Kite Wines for tastings paired with local produce or 919 Wines for exceptional fortified wines.

Where to stay: Wigley Retreat, a secluded riverside sanctuary.

8. Mount Gambier, SA

Good Intentions Wine Co.
Stop in for a tipple at Good Intentions Wine Co. (Image: Ben McMahon)

Known for vibrant arts and striking volcanic landscapes, Mount Gambier also offers innovative wines. Taste expressive vintages at Good Intentions Wine Co. or Limus Wine.

Where to stay: Heinlen on North Terrace, combining heritage charm with luxurious comfort.

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9. Great Southern Region, WA

Paul Nelson Wines in WA's Great Southern Region
Visit Paul Nelson Wines by appointment.

One of Australia’s most diverse wine regions, Great Southern blends coastal beauty with quality wines. Paul Nelson Wines offers intimate tastings by appointment, while Oranje Tractor Wines delivers eco-friendly experiences.

Where to stay: Lotti’s House boasts stunning views of Albany’s harbour.

10. Southern Forests (Manjimup and Pemberton), WA

The Grove at Ryans Rest in WA's Southern Forests
Go off-grid at The Grove at Ryans Rest.

Escape to this lush agricultural haven and taste wines deeply connected to their region. Peos Estate offers a wide range of styles, while Truffle Hill Wines pairs truffles and vintages expertly.

Where to stay: The Grove at Ryans Rest, an off-grid tiny house nestled in ancient forests.

11. Swan Valley, WA

Group picnic at Nikola Estate in the Swan Valley WA
Nikola Estate provides innovative wine selections.

As WA’s oldest wine region, Swan Valley combines rich history with delightful gourmet experiences. Harris Organic produces exceptional fortified wines and Nikola Estate provides innovative wine selections.

Where to stay: The Carriage, a lovingly restored train carriage from circa 1901.

12. East Coast, Tas

Holland House Bay of Fires
Slow mornings are encouraged at Holland House Bay of Fires. (Image: Adam Gibson)

Tasmania’s East Coast offers pristine beaches and stunning cellar doors. Sample cool-climate wines at Devil’s Corner, famed for panoramic views, or explore heritage-listed Spring Vale Vineyards.

Where to stay: Holland House Bay of Fires offers stylish, beachfront relaxation.

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Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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7 reasons to book a long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula

(Image: Supplied)

    Jade Raykovski Jade Raykovski
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    A place of spectacular coastlines and rolling vineyards, the Mornington Peninsula is just an hour from Melbourne, yet feels like a world away.  

    Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is often voted the number one short stay in Australia, and for good reason. From its beautiful coastline and scenic trails to exceptional food and wine, it’s the perfect escape any time of year, but especially as the weather grows cooler.  

    Picture afternoons relaxing in the soul-warming hot springs. Evenings by a cosy fireplace, sipping one of the region’s renowned Pinot Noirs and tucking into a delicious meal made from local produce. Now stop imagining, and start planning; here’s why the Mornington Peninsula should be your next long weekend adventure.  

    1. It’s easy to get to 

    An aerial view of Pt. Leo Estate on the Mornington Peninsula.
    Spend a long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula. (Image: CMcConville)

    At only an hour’s drive southeast of the city, the Mornington Peninsula offers unbeatable convenience. If you’re taking the Eastlink tollway to Peninsula Link, look out for eclectic roadside artwork such as Callum Morton’s high-rise hotel (hint: you can’t check in). 

    2. The coastline is stunning

    Mount Martha Bathing Boxes
    Stay in colourful, iconic beach huts along the coast.

    The Mornington Peninsula separates Port Phillip Bay to its west and Western Port Bay to its east, making it the only place in Victoria you can see a sunrise over one bay and sunset over another. 

    Its spectacular coastline varies from sandy swimming and surf beaches to dramatic rocky cliffs. Mt Martha Beach, known for its colourful beach huts and calm clear waters, was named in Tourism Australia’s Top 10 beaches for 2026. Nearby, Arthurs Seat Eagle offers gondola rides to the peninsula’s highest point, where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas. 

    For a different perspective from the water, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience swimming with the bay’s resident dolphins, or catch a ride with Searoad Ferries from Sorrento to Queenscliff (the tip of the opposite Bellarine Peninsula). Pop into their new Sorrento terminal for sweeping views from its floor-to-ceiling windows and a bite to eat at Mediterranean restaurant ONDA. 

    3. Taste exceptional food and wine

    Crittenden restaurant mornington peninsula
    Treat yourself to the restaurant at Crittenden.

    While the Mornington Peninsula is now synonymous with cool climate wines like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it was originally renowned for apple production. There are many orchards still in operation, like fifth-generation Mock Red Apple; taste craft ciders (the Mulled Spiced Cider is a must in winter), and don’t miss the famous apple pie. 

    Of course, it would almost be a sin not to dine at a winery restaurant, or at least try a local wine. Stop at Foxey’s Hangout for casual share plates and a glass of Chardonnay on the deck; or for a more formal affair, the light-filled restaurant at Paringa Estate offers a fine dining set menu on weekends, with picturesque estate views. 

    Pt. Leo Estate has no less than three separate dining experiences to choose from, ranging from a wine terrace to contemporary fine dining, all sourcing seasonal Victorian and local Mornington Peninsula produce, and offering stunning vistas over Western Port Bay.  

    And opened in 2025, the restaurant at Crittenden celebrates regional produce with a modern Australian menu that pairs beautifully with their sustainably crafted estate wines.

    4. Plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors

    A quiet moment on the green as he prepares for the perfect swing.
    Tee off at world-class golf courses with stunning coastal views.

    Bring your hiking boots, because from beachside strolls to breathtaking cliffside walks, the Mornington Peninsula boasts incredible scenic trails for all fitness levels.

    The Red Hill Rail Trail follows the old railway line between Merricks and Red Hill, while the Bushrangers Bay Walking Track is the go-to trail for rugged coastal scenery, linking Cape Schanck and the Boneo Road picnic area (part of the longer Two Bays Trail). 

    The region is also home to several national parks providing plenty of opportunities to connect with nature, whether it’s a walk, picnic, or simply admiring the local flora and fauna. Golf lovers will rejoice with gorgeous courses such as the world-class Moonah Links or Flinders Golf Club, one of Victoria’s oldest golf courses.

    5. Lean into wellness and relaxation

    From an aerial view, a woman drifts peacefully across still, crystal-clear water.
    Unwind in mineral-rich hot springs and soak in total relaxation.

    Soaking in one of the Mornington Peninsula’s mineral-rich hot springs is a must in the cooler months. Alba Thermal Springs and Spa is the newer addition, with 25 contemporary geothermal pools, a sauna and steam room set amongst elegant coastal landscaping. Book a Night Owl session to watch the sunset from the pools, and extend your visit with a spa treatment or dining at their restaurant.  

    Across the road, the Peninsula Hot Springs offers two main bathing areas, cafes and a spa in a natural bush setting. The Bath House comprises over 70 bathing and wellness experiences, including their iconic Hilltop Pool, a reflexology walk, and Nepalese mineral showers; while the Spa Dreaming Centre is a serene adults-only sanctuary.  

    6. Get a culture fix

    Visit the Southern Hemisphere’s largest privately owned sculpture park at Pt. Leo Estate during long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula.
    Discover inspiring art across galleries and sculpture parks. (Image: Chris Conville)

    Wander the Southern Hemisphere’s largest privately owned sculpture park at Pt. Leo Estate, glass of red in hand, or pop into the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery to view one of their seasonal exhibitions. Seawinds Garden is also home to a sculpture collection by William Ricketts, surrounded by exotic and indigenous gardens.  

    If you’re more of a history buff, book a tour of the Cape Schanck Lighthouse, or spend an afternoon at Point Nepean National Park. Here, you can explore walking trails through the traditional country of the Bunurong people, learn the history of the old Quarantine Station and discover military forts and tunnels. 

    7. Gorgeous accommodations

    Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
    Check into Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill.

    The Mornington Peninsula’s standout accommodations are an experience in themselves. Escape to The Sanctuary at Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, a luxe retreat perched in the dunes above the springs. Or indulge in the dramatic luxury of Jackalope Hotel, home to a vine-facing pool and spa and the chef-hatted Doot Doot Doot. 

    For a dose of European country charm, stay at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill, set amongst lush gardens and vines with a cellar door and chef-hatted restaurant. Or for more contemporary, yet still charming, surroundings, the InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula is a historic hotel reimagined as a luxe coastal stay with European flair, including a pool deck and on-site bathhouse. 

    Start planning your long weekend at visitmorningtonpeninsula.org