hero media

This new multi-day alpine hike turns into a festival each night

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
This isn’t just any walk, it’s an outdoor adventure unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

Global trekking company HIGHLANDER is known for its unique approach to hiking and camping, hosting numerous multi-day adventures around the world. Launched out of Croatia in 2017, it has guided groups into the Himalayas, through San Bernardino National Forest in California, along Costa Rica’s El Camino and all across Europe.

Now, HIGHANDER is officially heading Down Under for its first-ever Australian series. Unlike other popular Aussie hikes, these aren’t the kind you’ll find in the guidebooks. They’re long, challenging and demand you dig deep. But they’re also full of after-hours magic that ordinary treks can’t offer, going well beyond just clocking kilometres and sleeping under the stars.

A look at Australia’s first HIGHLANDER

Mount Hotham in Victoria
The new HIGHLANDER hike will journey through Mount Hotham.

Coming to Australia in 2026, HIGHLANDER’s inaugural hike will run from 18–22 March in Mount Hotham, Victoria. And while it may seem geared towards experienced adventurers only, HIGHLANDER is all about making multi-day hikes accessible, enjoyable and stress-free for all.

Guests can join for just one, two or three of the full five days, tailoring the trip to match personal experience and fitness levels. The one-day pass is perfect for beginners, while the two- and three-day options provide deeper immersion in nature and a stronger sense of connection with the group, as well as a taste of HIGHLANDER’s evening experiences. Opting for the entire five days gives hardcore hikers the chance to truly push themselves and test their endurance.

Mount Hoham hike with HIGHLANDER
Participants can tailor the length of their trip to match experience levels.

The guided trek will unfold across Victoria’s Alpine National Park, where you’ll explore multiple trails, historic huts, old mines and mountainous peaks, taking in some of the region’s most breathtaking views along the way. The exact route is only available upon registration, but one thing is certain – guests are in for the adventure of a lifetime.

A hiking experience with a twist

Mount Hoham hike with HIGHLANDER
Embrace the spirit of adventure with like-minded adventurers.

With HIGHLANDER, the adrenaline doesn’t drop when the day of hiking ends – and that’s what sets it apart. Camping out isn’t just about rest and recovery, it’s about connecting, reflecting and celebrating. It’s a form of passion travel, where like-minded individuals can come together, disconnect from the chaos of everyday life, immerse themselves in nature and embrace the spirit of adventure.

After a long day on foot, the communal campsite turns into a mini festival, with live music, wellness classes, educational workshops and interactive activations for all. Daily group activities can include everything from nature talks and stargazing to yoga and breathwork, all designed to help you learn something new and establish connections within the community.

Mount Hoham hike with HIGHLANDER
Join a stargazing session around the campfire come evening.

By day, participants focus on the physical side of the journey, while evenings are dedicated to nurturing the mind and spirit – an act of wellness that prioritises personal investment and self-improvement. Whether you choose to partake in every session or simply swap stories around the campfire, you’ll wrap up each day feeling refreshed and restored, ready for a well-earned rest in your private tent.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

The fine print

The real magic of a HIGHLANDER experience lies in the smaller details. While you’re busy soaking up the adventure, the team handles everything else. Logistics like food and water, safety and camp set-up, transport and storage, are all taken care of behind the scenes.

Mount Hoham hike with HIGHLANDER
Logistics like food and water are managed by the team so you can enjoy the adventure.

However, guests will need to pack some of their own gear beforehand. Items such as hiking boots, tents, sleeping bags, a backpack, water bottle, torch, bowl and cutlery, clothing, compass and first-aid kit are all mandatory.

Safety remains a top priority on all HIGHLANDER hikes, so injury insurance, public liability coverage and access to 24-hour medical staff are all included. Participants are also given a hiker tag, which tracks location, and sweepers close the track each day to ensure nobody is left behind.

Registration for the Mount Hotham multi-day hike with HIGHLANDER is open now. Prices range from $129 for a one-day pass to $1165 for the full five days, with costs set to rise as spots fill up.

Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to visit places like Norway and New Zealand, her favourite place to explore will forever be her homeland.
View profile and articles
Absollut Apartments Mt Hotham
Mt Hotham

Where to ski, stay and apres at Mt Hotham

Mt Hotham is probably Australia’s best resort for advanced riders needing an adrenaline shot.

Read more
Couples Enjoy Onsen Mt Hotham
Mt Hotham

Mt Hotham Onsen Retreat & Spa

That achy feeling after skiing is about to be a distant memory when you check into Mt Hotham’s Onsen Retreat & Spa.

Read more
A sauna floating on a lake
Beechworth

A floating sauna has just opened in Victoria’s High Country

Pause and unwind in this Scandi-style wellness retreat.

Read more
Rutherglen Loops in Victoria
High Country

This new trail winds through one of Victoria’s best wine regions

There’s a new way to discover the Rutherglen.

Read more
hero media

7 reasons to book a long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula

(Image: Supplied)

    Jade Raykovski Jade Raykovski
    Continue
    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