2009 Australian Hand Surgery Society Annual Scientific Meeting
Destination
Mornington Peninsula – Victoria
The Mornington Peninsula is only an hours drive from Melbourne, but it seems a world away. In fact, the Peninsula now has an air that's reminiscent of the Mediterranean, with its vineyards and olive groves, its historic country house retreats and intimate hotels.
While it's boot-shaped like Italy (check out our maps), the Mornington Peninsula is far easier to explore at a leisurely pace. You can travel the length of our coastlines, stopping at our seaside villages, or just meander back and forth from one coast to the other on country roads with glorious views.
Fast Facts
The first European settlement in Victoria was in 1803 - and it was right here on the Mornington Peninsula. Military fortifications were first established in Victoria in the 1880s at Point Nepean. Memorabilia and furniture owned by Napoleon Bonaparte is still here, in one of our historic estates.
Australia's largest antique centre is on the Mornington Peninsula, and virtually every village is home to art and craft galleries. Our markets are spilling over with the work of local craftspeople and artisans, along with the edible arts of our gourmet food producers. So if you'd like to indulge in a little browsing and buying during your stay, we have much to tempt you with!
If history is your passion, the 'must see' attractions are Point Nepean and its fortifications from both World Wars. The story of Victoria's first European settlement is told at the Collins Settlement Historic Site near Sorrento, while there's plenty of maritime history in the museum at Cape Schanck Lightstation.
