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5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with Kids

This tiny island just 2 hours from Melbourne has soo many things to do for a fun weekend or holiday with the family. There are of course the Penguins to see, as well as a small theme park, farms and incredible nature parks too! But if you are after some FREE fun in Phillip Island, there are also so many things to explore here that are completely FREE! These are my Top 5 Free Things to do in Phillip Islands with kids.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with kids

Antartic Journeys and Boardwalks at the Nobbies

Boardwalk at the Nobbies overlooking Seal Rock

Without a doubt one of the most scenic places to see on Phillip Island. Located right on the south-western tip of Phillip Island, just a few minutes away from the Penguin Parade (the Top Attraction to see in Phillip Island!), the Nobbies can’t be missed!

The name ‘Nobbies’ comes from the dome-shaped rocks, which you can see from the view-point near the car park, called Seal Rock.

The Nobbies Centre

The main standout feature of the Nobbies is the long boardwalk that you can walk across to a few parts of the area. It’s almost a chilometer long and worth the walk for the incredible views.

Here, you can also spot a lot of wildlife. Fur seals make an appearance on the rocks (hence the name, Seal Rock), especially during the summer months of December to March, which is peak breeding season.

Cape Barren Geese

The area also has a lot of birds that nest here, so many seagulls and the beautiful Cape Barren Geese can be seen along the drive there.

You may also see little fairy penguins in the man-made borrows along the boardwalk! Kangaroos, wallabies and even whales can also be seen during the winter when they are migrating.

A fairy penguin hiding in the burrows at the Nobbies

The Nobbies Centre, next to the car park is also worth a visit. Antarctic Journeys is a cool place to learn more about conservation and sustainability, and the kids will enjoy the interactive displays.

Interactive and hands-on displays at the Antarctic Journeys exhibit inside the Nobbies centre

There is also a gift shop and a coffee shop. The views are incredible and make it a great spot for lunch, no matter the weather!

View from the cafe’ overlooking Seal Rock

Forrest Caves

The sea cave at Forrest Caves

A popular spot especially during the holidays and weekend is Forrest Caves. Just off the main road near Cape Woolamai, these stunning rock formations and caves sure are worth a visit!

Reaching the top of the dune overlooking Forrest Caves Beach

The rocks are a red & black colour originating from volcanic eruptions and wave erosions. The beach is endless and pristine, with walls of sand dunes alongside it.

Rockpools at Forrest Caves

Once you reach the car park, follow the steep stairs to reach the top of the sand dunes and see Forrest Caves Beach.

Continue walking on the left side for about 500 mt to reach Forrest Caves and explore the red caves, rocks and crystal clear rockpools.

Forrest Caves

NOTE: Swimming is NOT advised at this beach due to strong waves and rip currents. This beach is stunning but it is not patrolled and can get extremely rough! As it’s part of a conservation area, dogs are also not allowed here.

Pelican feeding in San Remo

Pelicans getting their lunch

An amazing activity to do either when going or leaving Phillip Island, is seeing the Pelican Feeding! This takes place daily in San Remo, near the jetty, just before crossing over the bridge to Phillip Island.

Every day at 12 o’clock, crowds gather to see the pelicans gobble down some fish from the nearby Fisherman’s Co-Op (which also does a great fish & chips).

The Fishermen’s Co-Op in San Remo

This daily feeding has been going on for over 30 years, started by local fishermen feeding the wild pelicans their fish offcuts. The pelicans now come here daily to get their lunch! The fishermen also provide insightful information about the pelicans and how to look after the environment for them too. It was one of my favourite Free things to do in Phillip Island with Kids!

Pelicans patently awaiting their daily feed

The numbers of pelicans vary from groups of 5 up to about 35. It has become quite a popular attraction for visitors coming to the area! Expect quite a few people during the holidays and get there 10-15 minutes early to get a good view.

Phillip Island Beaches

Cowes beach

There are so many beaches on Phillip Island! The island has volcanic origins so many of the beaches have black and red-toned rocks. The list below is just of SOME of the many beaches on the island:

  • Cowes Beach is a popular beach with families that is shallow and protected from the surf. Nearby Erehwon Point Playground is located west of the jetty too.
  • Smiths Beach is 10 minutes south of the island, another popular one with its gorgeous crescent-shaped beach.
Cowes beach and pier

Both these beaches have facilities and are next to food outlets. There is car parking and are both generally patrolled in summer, but they do get busy during peak periods!

Cape Woolamai Beach

For some quieter beaches, head over to Kitty Miller Bay or Sunderland Bay. These do not have facilities but are more secluded than the other beaches if you are after some more peace!

Sunderland Bay

Sunderland Bay is similar to Forrest Caves (minus the crowds) with the rock formations in a red colour and lots of rock pools. We also found so many sea sponges here that the kids loved.

Sandboarding at Cape Woolamai

Cape Woolamai Surf Beach

A fun thing we did on our last trip to Phillip Island was sandboarding the steep sand dunes at Cape Woolamai.

It’s a bit of hard work to reach the sand dunes and to climb up them but it was 100% worth it! The kids loved the adventure so if you have bodyboards, bring them with you here.

‘Norman Hill’ is located on a tucked away path just before you access the car park at Woolamai Surf Beach. You can only access this place by walk and it is a bit tucked away!

Climbing the sand dunes at Norman Hill

How to get to Norman Hill:

  • Park at the Woolamai Beach car park
  • Walk back for a few minutes on the road you came from to access the path
  • The path has a map pointing to Cleeland Bight Track. The sandy path is around 300 mt till you reach the beach.
  • Once at the beach, take a right for a few minutes and you will see the huge hill. Climb up and have fun!

Budget Friendly Accommodation in Phillip Island

BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island

Located in Newhaven, just across the bridge from San Remo, BIG4 Ingenia Holiday Park has everything you need for a family-friendly holiday. The park has a variety of cabins to suit all budgets, from basic to fully renovated cabins. The park also has a playground, BBQ facilities and beach access.

Check Prices and Availability for BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island HERE

Renovated Cabin at BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island HERE

Want to read more on Phillip Island?

I hope you enjoyed this post on 5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with Kids!

Want to read more about Phillip Island? Check out my other post on the Top 8 Things to do with the family in Phillip Island as well as recommendations on Where to eat in Phillip Island coming soon!

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Family Favourites

Healthy Sweet and Sour Pork

A healthier version of the classic takeaway dish of sweet and sour pork. Stir-fried, rather than deep-fried with lean pork fillet, and a punchy flavourful sweet and tangy sauce. This is my Healthy Sweet and Sour Pork, made in a flash!

I love a stir-fry for those busy weeknight dinners, and this one is a winner with everyone in the family! Made in 30 minutes and with wholesome ingredients, it is a take on the classic Chinese takeaway dish Sweet and Sour Pork but without the heaviness of the deep frying, not overly sweet and with Tamari, a lower sodium alternative to soy sauce.

Ingredients for this Healthy Sweet & Sour Pork

What you will need for this Healthier Sweet and Sour Pork:

  • Pork Fillet or Pork Tenderloin
  • Pineapple, Capsicum, Onion, Carrots, Garlic & Spring Onions

Ingredients for Sweet & Sour Sauce

  • Sesame Oil
  • Tamari
  • Maple Syrup
  • Brown Sugar
  • Apple Cider Vinegar

How to make this Healthier Sweet and Sour Pork

Prepare and brown pork meat

Mix the cornflour with some water and combine till it forms a paste. Add this to the sliced pork fillet till well combined.

Heat a wok or large fry pan over medium heat and add some sesame oil.

Cook the pork slices till just cooked for 3-4 minutes. In the meantime, prepare the stir fry sauce by combining the tamari, with the apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar and maple syrup.

Remove from the wok and set aside.

Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add the garlic, carrots, pepper, onions and pineapple to the hot wok with a splash of water and cook till they slightly soften for 3-4 minutes.

Return Pork to the Wok and add stir-fry sauce

Add the pork back in the wok, the sweet and sour sauce and cook for a further 2 minutes till the pork is cooked fully,

Garnish and Serve

Add the sliced spring onions. Turn off the heat and serve immediately with some brown or white rice.

Print Pin

Healthy Sweet and Sour Pork

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
A healthier version of the classic Sweet and Sour Pork

Equipment

  • 1 Wok

Ingredients

Stir Fry

  • 500 gr Pork Fillet (Sliced in 1 cm pieces)
  • 2 tbsp Corn Flour
  • 3 tbsp Sesame Oil
  • 3 Garlic Cloves (Thinly Sliced)
  • 1 cup Pineapple ((half a pineapple) Cut into chunks)
  • 2 Red Capsicum (Cut into chunks)
  • 2 Carrots (Peeled and roughly sliced)
  • 6 Spring Onions (Sliced)

Sweet and Sour Sauce

  • 5 tbsp Sesame oil
  • 5 tbsp Apple cider Vinegar
  • 4 tbsp Maple Syrup
  • 3 tbsp Tamari (or Soy Sauce)
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar

Instructions 

  • Mix the cornflour in a small bowl with 2 tablespoons of water and combine till it forms a paste.
    Add this to the sliced pork fillet till well combined.
  • Heat a wok or large fry pan over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of sesame oil.
    Cook the pork slices till just cooked for 3-4 minutes. In the meantime, prepare the sauce ingredients by combining the maple syrup with the sesame oil, the tamari and the apple cider vinegar.
    Remove from the wok and set aside.
  • Add the garlic, carrots, pepper, onions and pineapple to the hot wok with a splash of water and cook till they soften for 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the pork back in the wok, the sweet and sour sauce and cook for a further 2 minutes till the pork is cooked fully,
  • Add the sliced spring onions. Turn off the heat and serve immediately with some brown or white rice.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Keyword: chinese food, easy dinner, healthy food, stir-fry

Want to read more?

I hope you enjoyed this Healthy Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe. You can check out more of my healthy recipes like my Healthy Soba Noodle Salad or my Black Rice Salad.

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Breakfast

Homemade Nut Granola

Trust me when I say, that once you start making granola, it’s hard to go back to the shop-bought version. Crunchy nuts, coconut and the caramelized sweetness from the maple syrup and honey, make this a delicious breakfast topping to yogurt or as a snack! Not only it’s healthier for you, but you can also make a huge batch, bake it and store it – and this will last you a while! This is my Homemade Nut Granola.

Ingredients for this Homemade Nut Granola

This Homemade Nut Granola is mainly made up of plain rolled oats and you can add or substitute other ingredients with whatever you like to add too!

It’s made with no refined sugars, just honey and maple syrup for sweetness. Just wholesome ingredients making it healthier than the shop-bought versions.

If you prefer a fruit granola instead of nuts, you can add dried raisins, sultanas or cranberries after baking too.

I’ve put a few suggestions in the list below.

Image by Martin Hetto from Pixabay

Dry Ingredients

  • Rolled Oats
  • Mixed Nuts: I used chopped almonds & cashews, but you can substitute for pecans, pistachios, hazelnuts or peanuts or leave out completely for a nut-free version. Walnuts can also be used but should be added in the last 5 minutes of cooking as they can burn easily.
  • Chia Seeds
  • Pepita Seeds: Can be replaced for sunflower seeds
  • Dried Shredded Coconut. Added at the end of cooking as it can burn easily
  • Cacao Nibs (optional), added at the end. I like to add Cacao nibs for extra flavour and crunch and because I just love chocolate!

Wet Ingredients

  • Honey
  • Maple Syrup
  • Coconut Oil
  • Vanilla essence (not essential, but adds a lovely aroma to the granola!)

How to make this Homemade Nut Granola

Making home-made granola is easy and you can make a big batch in one go by filling 2-3 large trays. Here is how you make it step by step:

Pre-heat oven & Combine dry ingredients

You start off by getting your oven hot at 180 degrees (or 160 for fan forced). Prepare 2 large trays (I used 2, 25cm x 40cm trays) and line them with baking paper.

Combine all the dry ingredients EXCEPT for the dried coconut and cacao nibs. These are added later otherwise they can burn easily and make the granola bitter.

Dry Ingredients for nut granola

Mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients

Prepare the wet ingredients: In a bowl, melt the coconut oil, then add the honey, maple syrup and vanilla essence and mix through.

Combine with the dry ingredients and ensure all the dry ingredients are coated well in the honey/maple mixture.

Prepare the granola for baking

Divide the granola mixture between the trays. Flatten it as much as you can to spread out evenly across the trays. Don’t overfill the trays if you are using smaller trays! Place in the hot oven for 20 minutes.

Mix halfway through so that the granola can get an even, golden crunch!

getting the granola ready for baking

Add the coconut & cacao nibs

Take the granola out of the oven, add the desiccated coconut and cacao nibs and give it a good stir.

Return to the hot oven for a further 5 minutes.

Homemade nut granola with coconut and cacao nibs added towards the end of cooking

Cool and store

Take the granola out of the oven and let it cool completely to dry before storing it in an airtight container. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this Homemade Nut Granola over yogurt, ice cream, with your favourite milk, or as a tasty, nutritious snack just on its own!

Storage for Granola

Storage of this Homemade Nut Granola

Ensure the granola is completely cooled and cold before storing it away. The granola will last for at least 4 weeks at room temperature in an airtight container. I like to store mine in a large clip top jar like Kilner Jars for the best seal so the granola does not go stale!

Want to read more?

If you liked this granola recipe – in the making I have a Nut-Free Chocolate Granola coming soon!

Print Pin

Homemade Nut Granola

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling time 1 hour
Maple Honey Nut Granola perfect to top your breakfast

Equipment

  • 2 Oven Trays 25 x 40 cm

Ingredients

Dried Ingredients

  • 500 gr Rolled Oats
  • 1 Cup Mixed Chopped nuts (such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, pecans or hazelnuts)
  • 1 Cup Pepita Seeds
  • Half Cup Black Chia Seeds
  • 1 Cup Dried Shredded Coconut
  • Half Cup Cacao Nibs (optional)

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp Coconut Oil (melted)
  • 3 tbsp Maple Syrup
  • 3 tbsp Honey
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Essence (optional)

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven at 180 degrees (or 160 for fan forced). Prepare 2 large trays (I used 2, 25cm x 40cm trays) and line them with baking paper.
  • Combine all the dry ingredients EXCEPT for the dried coconut and cacao nibs. These are added later otherwise they can burn easily and make the granola bitter.
  • Prepare the wet ingredients: In a bowl, melt the coconut oil, then add the honey, maple syrup and vanilla essence and mix through.
    Combine with the dry ingredients and ensure all the dry ingredients are coated well in the honey/maple mixture.
  • Divide the granola mixture between the trays. Flatten it as much as you can to spread out evenly across the trays. Don't overfill the trays if you are using smaller trays! Place in the hot oven for 20 minutes. Mix halfway through so that the granola can get an even golden crunch!
  • After the 20 minutes, Take the granola out of the oven, add the desiccated coconut and cacao nibs and give it a good stir.
    Return to the hot oven for a further 5 minutes.
  • Turn the oven off and Take the granola out of the oven.
    Let it cool completely to dry before storing it in an airtight container.
    Enjoy!

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this Homemade Nut Granola over yogurt, ice cream, with your favourite milk, or as a tasty, nutritious snack just on its own!
Storage of this Homemade Nut Granola: Ensure the granola is completely cooled and cold before storing it away. The granola will last for at least 4 weeks at room temperature in an airtight container. I like to store mine in a large clip top jar like Kilner Jars for the best seal so the granola does not go stale!
Course: Breakfast
Keyword: easy breakfast, granola, healthy breakfast, nut granola
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Hotel Reviews

Brisbane Hotel with a view: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review

If you are looking for a Brisbane hotel with a view, Meriton Suites is the place to go! Meriton Adelaide Suites is located in one of the tallest towers in the city offering comfortable serviced apartment accommodation. The standout? Staying on a high floor for the most incredible 360-degree views over Brisbane and the Brisbane River!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

A Brisbane Hotel with a view: Things to love about Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

  • Incredible, uninterrupted views over the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge
  • Fantastic location a few minutes from the river and only 15 minutes walk from the city centre
  • Comfortable and Spacious Apartments fitted with everything you need!
Views of the Brisbane Story Bridge from Howard Smith Wharves
Views of the Brisbane Story Bridge from Howard Smith Wharves

To check out Prices and Availability For Meriton Suites Adelaide Street in Brisbane, click HERE

Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Overview

Brisbane hotel view a view: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
View over the Brisbane River and Story Bridge from the Altitude Apartment

Opened in 2012, the towering 243 mt, 74 floors skyscraper that is the Meriton Suites Adelaide Street is one of the tallest towers in all of Brisbane, and was at one point, the tallest building in Brisbane!

Part residential and part serviced apartments, the building can’t be missed! It has enviable views of the nearby Story Bridge (and is one of the only 5 bridges IN THE WORLD that you can climb!).

Check prices for the Story Bridge Climb HERE

Story Bridge Climb

Meriton Adelaide Suites is located near Fortitude Valley, which luckily is not an area filled with skyscrapers. That gives this building the advantage of having uninterrupted views over the city, river and beyond.

The comfortable apartments are fitted with everything you need. Read on below to find out more about Meriton Suites Adelaide Street and why this hotel is one with the best views in Brisbane!

Rooms: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review

The Meriton has several apartments on offer, these vary by different number of bedrooms and on which floor the apartments are.

Bedroom in Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
  • Studio Luxury Suites: Studio-style accommodation for 2 people on the lower floors (2-4)
  • 1 Bedroom Luxury Suites: Self Self-contained apartment accommodation for 2 people on the lower floors, up to level 42.
  • 2 Bedroom Luxury Suites: Self Self-contained apartment accommodation with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms for 4 people from level 6 up to level 58.
  • 2 Bedroom Altitude Suites: To have a guaranteed, amazing hotel room with a view in Brisbane, the Altitude apartments are on high floors from level 63 up to level 74. Self Contained Apartment accommodation with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms for 4 people.
  • 3 Bedroom Altitude Suites: This is the largest apartment type measuring at just over 100 SQM. This popular apartment type is perfect for wedding parties and for checking out the amazing views of the New Year fireworks over the city. Apartments are located on the top floors from levels 64 to 74.

2 Bedroom Altitude Suite Review: The Best hotel views over Brisbane!

On our trip to Brisbane, we stayed in a 2-bedroom Altitude suite that was located on level 69. First entering the room all you see is the view!

Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the whole lounge and bedrooms and have the most epic views over the river. On a clear day, at sunset or nighttime, the views are incredible!

Lounge Room at Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Altitude Suite, one of the best Brisbane hotels for a view!
Lounge Room in the Altitude Suite

To check out Prices and Availability For Meriton Suites Adelaide Street in Brisbane, click HERE

The rooms are extremely comfortable and suit perfectly for long stays too. The bedrooms are spacious with plenty of storage. In the 2-bedroom apartments, you will find a full-sized kitchen, 3 A/C units (in each bedroom and the open plan lounge) and 3 large flat-screen TVs with in-built Chrome Cast for easy streaming.

Room Amenities – Kitchen / Dining

The Altitude Apartment was well fitted with everything we needed including a full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave, full-size fridge/freezer.

Full Kitchen in the Altitude Suite

In the kitchen, you can also find an espresso machine with pods, a kettle and a toaster.

A small laundry cupboard had a washer and separate dryer too.

Laundry Cupboard Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
Laundry Cupboard in the Altitude Suite

A 4 seater, round marble top table in the main dining table.

Dining Area Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
Dining Area

Amenities such as dishwashing tablets & washing detergent are replenished every 3rd day or weekly depending on the rate purchased.

Room Amenities – Bedrooms

In the bedrooms, King-size beds are provided in the 2 bedrooms. At the time of booking, you can also request to have these set up as single beds or 1 king and 2 singles.

The rooms are of generous size with blackout curtains and full-size wardrobes. There was A LOT of storage space with hanging space as well as shelves and drawers. Perfect for longer stays!

Bedroom view by night Altitude Suites
Views from the Altitude Suite Bedroom, level 69

A safe is provided in the master bedroom as well as a laundry service slip (provided by the property at an additional cost).

Safe and Wardrobe in the Altitude Suite
Safe & Wardrobe

A/C Unit in each of the bedrooms for cooling/heating.

A flat-screen TV fitted with Chrome Cast is provided in each of the bedrooms making it super convenient for easy streaming!

Room Amenities – Lounge Room

As you enter the Altitude Suite the lounge room has a small 2 seater couch, and 2 armchairs facing the sweeping views from the high floor.

Lounge Room

A flat-screen TV fitted with StayCast (Chrome Cast) is provided for convenient streaming. Large desk/workstation as you enter the lounge too. A/C for heating and cooling.

Unlimited WIFI is provided during the stay.

Workspace Altitude Suite at Meriton Adelaide Street
Workstation in the apartment

Room Amenities – Bathrooms

The Altitude Apartment has 2 bathrooms. One central bathroom with vanity, toilet & shower, and the second bathroom is an ensuite – with a bath and separate shower. Hairdryer & Kevin Murphy Toiletries provided.

Bathroom with shower in the Altitude Suite
Central Bathroom with Shower in the Altitude Suite

The bathrooms are spacious, but I did find them a bit dated eg. the vanities had some cracks in the porcelain and the showers were not as sparkling as a new hotel.

Hotel Facilities: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

In addition to 24-hour reception/guest services, Meriton Adelaide Suites also has parking and fitness facilities located on level 5. These are open from 5 am to 10 pm, every day.

Lobby Lounge Meriton Adelaide Street
Lobby – Meriton Adelaide Street

Car Parking at Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

If driving into Meriton Suites, convenient onsite undercover car parking is available at the property. Note that this is limited and subject to availability, with the rate per night at 40 AUD. Entry is via Arch Lane, located at the rear of the property.

Swimming Pool, Hot Tub & Sauna

On level 5, guests and residents can access the fitness facilities.

The pool area is very spacious, with some bench space to sit and store belongings. Towels are NOT provided so you must bring your own. The pool is heated all year round, and the depth is 1.2 metres on the deepest end.

A large in-ground hot tub is also in the same area as the pool.

Hot Tub & Pool Area at Meriton Adelaide Suites – Image courtesy of Expedia

Unfortunately the the time of our stay the Sauna was not operational. We enquired with reception and they explained it was a long-term issue. I was a bit disappointed that this was not advised at the time of booking, as we chose the hotel based on the facilities too!

Pool at Meriton Adelaide Street
Pool Area

Gymnasium

Large gymnasium with workout equipment and weights.

Gymnasium at Meriton Adelaide Street
Gymnasium

Family Friendly Facilities

Children are welcome at the hotel and the kids were given activity packs at check-in too which was a nice touch. If travelling to Meriton for a special occasion for a birthday, it’s worth mentioning too! The room was set up with balloons, bubbles and a card as we arrived.

The pool was very enjoyable for them and there were lots of other children using it too, especially during the weekend.

Cots can be arranged in advance for a cost of 10 AUD per night and include a baby amenities pack.

Location of Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

Hotel entrance at Meriton
Hotel Entrance from Adelaide Street

The Meriton Suites Adelaide is located at 485 Adelaide Street in Brisbane.

A Foodworks to buy essential items is also located on the ground floor of the building which was very handy as we arrived late on the first day! A larger supermarket (Woolworths Spring Hill) is located just a 5-minute walk away too.

We found the Meriton to be in a very good location as you can reach the river and city centre very easily on foot. To reach South Bank, it is a longer walk so we generally opted to take an Uber or the ferry!

  • Brisbane River Boardwalk (restaurants/dining) – 5 minutes walk
  • Queen Street Mall (main shopping district) – 15 minutes walk
  • Riverside Ferry Terminal (to board the free CityHopper Ferry to South Bank) – 10 minutes walk
  • Howard Smith Wharves (for dining with incredible views of the Story Bridge) – 5-minute walk
  • Roma Street Parklands (amazing gardens!) – 25-minute walk
  • South Bank (dining/entertainment precinct) – 35 minutes walk
Brisbane Sign in South Bank

Final Thoughts – Meriton Adelaide Street

Although the building and some of the facilities do show that they are 10 years old, we overall had a good stay at Meriton. The location was great for us as we ventured out for walks every day and the ferry access at Riverside was so handy. Would I stay again? Yes. The views from the 69th floor were unlike anywhere I have ever stayed before!

BOOK Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

Hope you enjoyed reading this Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review, of the the best Brisbane Hotels with a view!

To check out Prices and Availability For Meriton Suites Adelaide Street in Brisbane, click HERE

Still looking for Brisbane Hotels?

Still looking for a hotel? Check out all the hotels in Brisbane HERE!

Want to read more?

You can read more on my posts about Brisbane coming soon!

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Desserts

Classic Italian Tiramisu

A traditional and authentic recipe of a Classic Italian Tiramisu, just as my mum always makes it for me! A simple and timeless dessert of sweet savoiardi biscuits dipped in strong espresso coffee, then layered with a silky mascarpone cream.

A classic dessert recipe: Tiramisu

Everyone loves a good tiramisu. It literally translates to ‘pick me up’ and from as long as I remember it’s my favourite dessert. Set to have originated in the mid 1900′ in the north of Italy in Treviso, this dessert has gained some recent popularity again. And the bottom line is, this easy no-bake dessert is delicious and the perfect ending to an italian fest!

Tiramisu can also be made ahead of time, and actually tastes BETTER the next day. This is to give a chance to the savoiardi to soak well in the espresso and the mascarpone cream. So here is how to make it!

What is a traditional Tiramisu made with?

Like all classic dishes that have been around for a while, some versions differ from others, some include liqueur, some don’t. Some have egg whites, some don’t.

dusting the tiramisu

This classic italian tiramisu recipe that I have had passed on in my family is made with just 6 ingredients: Savoiardi biscuits, eggs, mascarpone, sugar, espresso coffee and cocoa powder.

The eggs are used raw – and there is traditionally no cream in a classic tiramisu.

Ingredients for this Classic Italian Tiramisu

ingredients for tiramisu

Savoiardi – the perfect biscuit for tiramisu

These biscuits traditionally used for tiramisu are also called sponge fingers or lady fingers. These dry sponge biscuits are made of flour, sugar and a high content of eggs (around 25%), and coated with a thin layer of sugar. They are the perfect for soaking in coffee and layering in a classic tiramisu!

My favourite brands to use are classic italian made savoiardi like Di Leo, Marini, or Vincenzovo which can be easily found in major supermarkets or italian delicatessen.

savoiard biscuits at the supermarket

Look for long thin biscuits that are quite airy – as these will soak the coffee better. The thicker and denser the biscuit is – they will struggle to soak in the coffee (you may need to dip them for longer) and may result in a dry biscuit in the inside, even after being soaked.

What other biscuits can I use an an alternative to Savoiardi?

Savoiardi or ladyfingers are the most authentic biscuits to use to make a traditional tiramisu. But, you can also make other versions of it!

To make it as a cake – you can use thin layers of plain sponge cake. A popular type of biscuit to use as an alternative are also pavesini which give you a similar tiramisu texture. You can also use plain dried biscuits – but the result will be a denser, less airy tiramisu (so you would just have a smaller serve).

Eggs & Sugar

This recipe uses whole raw eggs, . If you prefer to not use raw eggs, these can be replaced for whipped cream, see below notes below the recipe.

Any sugar can be used, I like to use white granulated or caster sugar.

Mascarpone

This dense creamy cheese is what tiramisu is all about. It’s not to be confused with cream cheese! The two quite differ for 2 main reasons. 1. Fat content 2. Flavour profile.

Mascarpone is majority fat (50/60%), whereas cream cheese has a lower fat content. The flavour differs greatly too, as mascarpone has a sweeter, buttery flavour, whether cream cheese is more tangy.

Choose a good quality mascarpone from your local supermarket or italian deli. My favourite brands are Mamma Lucia, Montefiore or Casa del Formaggio.

mascarpone cheese

Can I replace mascarpone for cream cheese?

You can replace it for cream cheese but you would also need to add cream and butter to mimic silkier texture of mascarpone. You can find a recipe to do so here.

Espresso coffee

Freshly brewed and cooled espresso coffee is used for this recipe to dip the savoiardi in.

Cocoa Powder

Traditionally dark bitter cocoa powder is used.

How to make Classic Italian Tiramisu

Prepare the espresso coffee

Prepare the espresso coffee and set aside to cool slightly, then store in the fridge.

Beat egg whites

You start off by beating the egg whites till they form stiff peaks and set aside.

beating egg whites

Combine egg yolks and sugar

In a separate bowl, combine the egg yolks and sugar and beat until pale for 5 minutes.

combining sugar and egg yolks

Add mascarpone

Add the mascarpone to the eggs.

adding mascarpone to the cream for tiramisu

Gently combine till it’s a thick, silky consistency.

Fold in egg whites

Fold in the egg whites, a spoonful at the time with a spatula.

folding egg whites to tiramisu cream

The eggs whites will lighten the mixture, be sure to not overmix so that the cream stays airy!

Once combined, cover and rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Soak biscuits and layer with mascarpone mixture

Prepare a large tray (20 x 30 cm) for the tiramisu. Set up the bowl with the coffee, one with the mascarpone cream, and one with the savoiardi.

Soak each biscuit for 1-2 seconds in the coffee – no longer, otherwise they will completely disintegrate in your hands! Layer in the tray.

Top with a spoonful of the mascarpone mixture, then layer the biscuits again. The top should be a thick layer of mascarpone cream

Dust with cocoa powder and rest in the fridge

Top the tiramisu with a thick dusting of cocoa powder. Cover and rest the tiramisu in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow for the biscuits to fully absorb and soften.

Storage of Tiramisu

Due to containing raw eggs and dairy, Tiramisu must be kept in the fridge right up until serving. Leftover tiramisu needs to be stored in the fridge in an airtight contained and be consumed within the next 3 days.

Safety notice: Alternative to using raw eggs

This recipe uses raw eggs. Some people might not like the idea of using raw eggs, and for some it may be a safety concern. Young children, pregnant women or elderly and immune-compromised individuals are generally recommended to NOT consume products containing raw eggs like this recipe.

The alternative instead of using eggs is to have a similar version of this tiramisu (although not traditional) is to replace the eggs with freshly whipped cream.

Replace the eggs with 200 ml of heavy whipping cream, add the sugar and whip until you get stiff peaks and fold in with the mascarpone. Add 1 tsp of vanilla essence for more flavour. Layer with the coffee-soaked biscuits as per recipe above.

The coffee can also be replaced for a decaf espresso.

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Classic Italian Tiramisu

Prep Time 30 minutes
Resting time 6 hours
Servings 8 people
A traditional northern italian dessert made with sponge fingers, dipped in coffee and layered with mascarpone cream

Ingredients

  • 3 Eggs (separated whites / yolks)
  • 3 tbsp Sugar (white or caster sugar)
  • 500 gr Mascarpone Cheese
  • 30-40 Savoiardi biscuits (400 gr approx)
  • 1.5 cups Espresso Coffee (300 ml approx)
  • 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder

Instructions 

  • Prepare the espresso coffee and set aside to cool slightly, then store in the fridge.
  • Separate the eggs. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites till they form stiff peaks and set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the the egg yolks and sugar. Using a stand mixer or hand held mixer, beat until pale for 5 minutes.
  • Add the mascarpone to the eggs yolks and sugar mixture and gently combine till it's a thick, silky consistency.
  • Fold in the egg whites, a spoonful at the time with a spatula. The eggs whites will lighten the mixture, be sure to not overmix so that the cream stays airy! Once combined, cover and rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  • Prepare a large tray (20 x 30 cm) for the tiramisu. Soak each biscuit for 1-2 seconds in the coffee – no longer, otherwise they will completely disintegrate in your hands! and layer in the tray.
    Top with a spoonful of the mascarpone mixture, then layer the biscuits again. The top should be a thick layer of mascarpone cream
  • Top the tiramisu with a thick dusting of cocoa powder. Cover and rest the tiramisu in the fridge for at least 6 hours or even better overnight to allow for the biscuits to fully absorb. Enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Due to containing raw eggs and dairy, Tiramisu must be kept in the fridge right up until serving. Leftover tiramisu needs to be stored in the fridge in an airtight contained and be consumed within the next 3 days.
Safety notice: This recipe uses raw eggs. Some people might not like the idea of using raw eggs, and for some it may be a safety concern. Young children, pregnant women or elderly and immune-compromised individuals are generally recommended to NOT consume products containing raw eggs like this recipe.
Alternative of using raw eggs: To have a similar version of this tiramisu (although not traditional) is to replace the eggs with freshly whipped cream.
Replace the eggs with 200 ml of heavy whipping cream, add the sugar and whip until you get stiff peaks and fold in with the mascarpone. Add 1 tsp of vanilla essence for more flavour. Layer with the coffee-soaked biscuits as per recipe above.
The coffee can also be replaced for a decaf espresso.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: easy dessert, make ahead meal, tiramisu

Want to read more?

I hope you enjoyed this recipe of classic italian tiramisu. More easy delicious dessert recipes coming soon!

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Australia

Top 7 Things to do around Healesville with Kids

Healesville is a fantastic destination perfect for a weekend away. Kids and nature lovers coming to Healesville will fall in love with the peaceful surroundings of Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, the ample green spaces and even it’s own vintage railway. A thriving dining and café scene and a short drive away from many other small towns like Marysville and Warburton, make Healesville a perfect country escape with kids.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

Where is Healesville?

The quaint town of Healesville is nestled in the Yarra Ranges, just over an hour drive north of Melbourne, and a short 15 drive from the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley vineyards. The nearby popular town of Marysville is 30 minutes drive from Healesville.

Top attractions for kids in Healesville

Healesville Sanctuary

This park has a different feel from your average zoo and showcases the distinctive Australian wildlife and vegetation!

Located just a 5 minute drive from the centre of Healesville, Healesville Sanctuary is a wildlife park surrounded by natural bushland. Full of Australian wildlife, be ready to see koalas, kangaroos, emus, platypus, dingoes and more!

There is a strong focus on conservation especially on koalas, which you can see so many of at the sanctuary in the Koala Forest section. Don’t miss the Keeper Talks at 11 am and 2 pm to find out everything you need to know about this beautiful native animal.

There are also other Keeper Talks throughout the day at different times and about different animals. You can view the full schedule here.

Spirits of the Sky bid show at the Arena in Healesville Sanctuary

The other highlight of Healesville Sanctuary is the Spirits of the Sky bird show in the Flight Arena, one not to be missed when visiting the sanctuary, on daily at 12 o’clock. The 30 minute presentation showcases a number of native birds like eagles, owls and parrots, who are flown over the crowds by the birdkeepers. It was truly amazing and a hit with the kids. A must do when in Healesville with the kids!

DETAILS: Open daily 9 am to 5 pm , 53 AUD per adult, 26.50 AUD for kids 4-15 yrs. Free under 3 years old. All Kids are FREE during weekends and public/school holidays. More info on the website for up to date times on Keeper Talks and what’s on.

Yarra Valley Railway

Yarra Valley Railway

This incredible vintage train station can be easy to miss (it’s tucked away off the main street) but it’s a must visit if you happen to be in Healesville on a Sunday.

The original 1950’s single carriage train takes you on a 4 km journey through the vineyards towards Yarra Glen and back. The scenery is fantastic and the highlight is going through a 100 year old tunnel. The trip all up is just under an hour so it’s perfect for the kids to enjoy!

The volunteers running this railway are also extremely knowledgeable and will explain some interesting facts about the railway and the history of the area. The train driver will also let the kids in the drivers area too.

DETAILS: Open Sundays Only 9 am to 3 pm , 50 AUD for a family ticket or individual tickets 18 AUD per adult, 12 AUD for kids 4-16 yrs. Free under 3 years old. Trains run every 45 min – 1 hour. Entirely volunteer run so they do also operate on other days occasionally. More info on the website.

Apex Park Playground

Located just beside the Yarra Valley Railway, this cute little playground is of course, all train themed! Perfect for younger children, this park has slides. Along side the playground, there is also the Healesville Labyrinth Garden which was great for the kids to run around in!

DETAILS: Open everyday – FREE

Queens Park

Queens Park Grounds

Located right in the centre of Healesville this playground and park is amazing. Surrounded by nature and built using a lot of wood and reclaimed logs, it blends in seamlessly with the beautiful surroundings.

There are plenty of things to do for the kids to be entertained for a while! With a smaller toddler playground, larger climbing structure, swings, slides, a double flying fox and and much more. The garden itself very spacious, with lots of shaded areas & picnic tables. Grab something to eat from nearby Beechworth Bakery and the morning is sorted!

DETAILS: Open everyday – FREE

Other places to visit with kids near Healesville

Marysville

Drive just 30 minutes from Healesville and take the incredibly scenic Black Spur drive (an attraction in itself!) to Marysville. This gorgeous little town is surrounded by mountains and has soo many things to do! The now thriving town was almost all completely rebuilt after the devastating 2009 Black Saturday Fires and is now a popular weekend destination in the Yarra Ranges.

Don’t miss visiting Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden, to see this enchanting forest filled with a myriad of hand made (and many full sized) clay, wood & brass sculptures. Bruno himself is usually around too!

Nearby, Gallipoli Park, has a wonderful playground as well as a a memorial built by Bruno, called New Life to represent the rebuilding of life in Marysville after the fires.

Steavensons Falls is a must see attraction in Marysville and a very easy trail to do with little ones. Located just 15 minutes drive out of town, the 700 mt walk is very accessible, fenced and takes you to the lookout of the waterfall.

In winter time from Marysville, you can also easily access to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, to see the snow and do some tobogganing. More on that below!

Warburton

The Warburton Redwood Forest

About 40 minutes drive from Healesville, you will find the quaint town of Warburton, surrounded by green and lush forest. A must see attraction is the Warburton Redwood Forest. Huge Californian Redwoods are planted in perfect rows and you can wonder in the forest, which also takes you to a river covered in ferns.

The forest in Autumn

It really is a magical place to visit and the kids will love wondering and exploring the tree art scattered everywhere!

Heads up, this place gets BUSY especially on weekends, holiday periods and during summertime as it’s now a popular spot for day-trippers. If you can, head there early (before 10 am) or out of peak periods.

Lake Mountain

If you are heading to Healesville in wintertime and want to see some snow, Lake Mountain is just 1 hour away by car from Healesville and 30 minutes from Marysville.

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is set up with 3 tobogganing tracks, cross country skiing and lots of snow play areas. You can read more about Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with kids on my other post here.

In the summer time and outside the snow season, you can access the mountain to go for bushwalks and hikes too.

Where to stay in Healesville

There are several accommodation options to stay in and near Healesville, here are some of my favourites:

Yarra Gables

The Lodge – Renovated accommodation at Yarra Gables – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Availability and Prices for Yarra Gables HERE

Centrally located just a 10 minute walk from the main area of Healesville, Yarra Gables offers modern accommodation in rooms and self contained cottages. Family rooms are also available.

Balgownie Estate

Pool at Balgownie Estate – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Availability and Prices for Balgownie Estate HERE

Just 10 minutes drive away from Healesville surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Balgownie Estate has had extensive renovations in recent years and now has some beautiful renovated suites and restaurant. 2 Bedroom Suites are perfect for families and the restaurant caters for children also. A pool, hot tub, gym and full spa are also available in this resort.

Family Friendly dining in Healesville and the Yarra Valley

Bee Sting Cake at Beechworth Bakery in Healesville

There are so many great places to eat in Healesville so you will be spoilt for choice! These are just some of the places:

  • Beechworth Bakery: A classic country bakery which is the perfect stop for a pie (they have a very extensive menu!) or baked goods. My personal favourites, Sri-Lankan Beef Curry & the Bee Sting cake (Open 6.30 am to 5.30 pm everyday)
  • Innocent Bystander: spacious restaurant and cellar door, serving wood fire pizzas. Kids menu available (Open 11 am to 4 pm everyday, open till 9 pm on weekends).
  • The Bodhi Tree: family friendly dining with pizzas and modern australian classics in charming setting
  • Chachi: A quirky little spot tucked between the shops on the main street. Pizzas and homemade pastas. Open for breakfast and freshly baked cookies too (Open Fri-Sun only).
  • Four Pillars Gin Distillery: for any gin-lovers, no trip to Healesville is complete without a stop at Four Pillars. They have a bar with tasting paddles and small snacks as was a store to purchase any of the full range of gins they produce (Open 10.30 am to 5.30pm everyday, open till 9 pm on weekends).

The wine region of the Yarra Valley is located just at the doorstep of Healesville, just within 15-20 minutes drive. There are plenty of family friendly dining options for a winery lunch that the whole family can enjoy:

Zonzo Estate

Want to read more?

Hope you enjoyed reading this post on the Top 7 Things to do in and around Healesville. If you want to read more about country escapes for families in Victoria, check out my post on Visiting the Grampians with kids and Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with Kids.

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Recipes

Rosemary and Garlic Potato Gratin

A deliciously creamy side dish perfect to accompany roast meats like a slow cooked lamb leg or roast pork. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with rosemary and baked slowly with cream, garlic and mozzarella cheese to make this Rosemary and Garlic Potato Gratin.

Ingredients for this Rosemary and Garlic Potato Gratin

This easy Potato Gratin recipe only uses a handful of ingredients, most of them you probably already have at home!

What are the best Potatoes to use for this Rosemary and Garlic Potato Gratin

Most importantly, find the right potatoes for roasting. Ideally, you are looking for a floury potato, which will go creamy on the inside, and crispy on the outside once cooked.

The best variety to use the Sebago type, which are long / oval shaped, but Desiree and Dutch Cream varieties also work well.

Image by Christos Giakkas from Pixabay

Other Ingredients

  • Cream, normal cooking cream
  • Chicken or Vegetable Stock
  • Shredded Mozzarella or you can substitute for tasty shredded cheese
  • Garlic
  • Rosemary
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Olive Oil
  • Parsley, to garnish

How to make this Rosemary and Garlic Potato Gratin

Slice and layer potatoes

Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees (160 fan forced).

Put a few tablespoons of olive oil at the bottom of the tray you will use for the gratin. I used a shallow 30 cm round cast iron pot to layer the potatoes in a circle, but you can also use a square or rectangular (roughly 20 cm x 30 cm) oven proof tray.

Peel and thinly slice (roughly half a cm thick slices) the potatoes and arrange them tightly layered next to each other. Arrange the rosemary sprigs amongst the potatoes.

Combine cream, garlic & mozzarella mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the cream, salt, pepper, finely chopped garlic and chicken stock. Once combined add the shredded mozzarella and stir. Pour the mixture over the potatoes.

Bake till crispy

Cover with foil or with an ovenproof lid and bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for a further 30 minutes uncovered.

Rest for 5 minutes, top with chopped parsley and serve. Enjoy!

Print Pin

Rosemary and Garlic Potato Gratin

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Thinly sliced potatoes baked with a creamy garlic sauce till crispy

Equipment

  • 1 Circular Cast Iron Pot 30 cm

Ingredients

  • 2 kg Roasting Potatoes (Peeled and Thinly Sliced half a cm thick)
  • 1 cup Cooking Cream (250 ml)
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1 cup Chicken or Vegetable Stock (200 ml)
  • 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 4 Sprigs Rosemary
  • 3 Cloves Garlic (Thinly Sliced)
  • 1 Tsp Salt
  • Ground Pepper

Instructions 

  • Pre-heat oven to 180 degrees (160 fan forced).
    Put a few tablespoons of olive oil at the bottom of the tray you will use for the gratin. I used a shallow 30 cm round cast iron pot to layer the potatoes in a circle, but you can also use a square or rectangular (roughly 20 cm x 30 cm) oven-proof tray.
    Peel and thinly slice (roughly half a cm thick slices) the potatoes and arrange them tightly layered next to each other.
    Arrange the rosemary sprigs amongst the sliced potatoes.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the cream, salt, pepper, finely chopped garlic and chicken stock. Once combined add the shredded mozzarella and stir. Pour the mixture over the potatoes.
  • Cover with foil or with an ovenproof lid and bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for a further 30 minutes uncovered.
  • Rest for 5 minutes, top with chopped parsley and serve. Enjoy!
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Keyword: baked potatoes, gratin, potato gratin, side dish

Want to read more?

Hope you enjoyed this recipe! More potato recipes coming on the blog soon. If you like this recipe, you might also like this Balsamic and Maple Roasted Pumpkin.

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Recipes

Slow Roasted Tomatoes and Ricotta Bruschette

A great wintery version of the classic tomato bruschetta! The tomatoes are slow-roasted in the oven and caramelize and sweeten beautifully. Perfect with some creamy ricotta over crispy bread. These Slow Roasted Tomatoes and Ricotta Bruschette are so easy to make and my new favourite starter!

Datterini & Grape Tomatoes: Perfect for slow roasting

On the days when my oven is on, I don’t pass up the chance to also bake a tray of the sweetest little tomatoes. These tomatoes can easily be found at almost all major stores – and you can recognize them for their date like shape (in italian its datteri – that’s where the name Datterini comes from) and they are a delight to eat, either fresh or slow roasted.

You can also find them in orange, green and dark red varieties, also called grape tomatoes as they are the shape of – grapes! The main difference with cherry tomatoes is that they are meatier, have a thicker skin (great for roasting) and sweeter. Pair it with some creamy ricotta and you have a delicious starter for any meal.

Supermarket varieties of cherry and grape tomatoes

Ingredients for this Slow roasted tomatoes and ricotta bruschette

Only a few ingredients are required for these easy slow roasted tomatoes and ricotta bruschette:

  • Tomatoes – I like to use a mixture of datterini and grape tomatoes, red and orange for the vibrant colours. Pick the sweetest you can find as these will make a lovely combinations of flavours and textures. Cherry tomatoes also work well but I find that they need a bit extra salt to bring out more sweetness, especially if these are out of season!
  • Garlic – a whole bulb sliced in half to slow roast with the tomatoes
  • Fresh Ricotta
  • Extra virgin olive oil – LOTS of it!
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Bread – A light airy loaf that you can slice in thick slices, or a nice sourdough or ciabatta loaf. A baguette will also work for smaller crostini style bruschetta.
  • Fresh Parsley – for garnish

How to make these Slow roasted tomatoes and ricotta bruschette

Prepare the Tomatoes and Garlic for slow-roasting

Start off by preheating the oven at 180 degrees. Slice the tomatoes in half and place in a small glass tray with the sliced garlic bulb, the olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper.

Roast till tender and sweet and combine with the garlic

Roast for 40 minutes till the tomatoes are falling apart. Remove the garlic cloves from the bulb, mash them and mix gently with the tomatoes. Check for seasoning and add more salt as required. Set aside to cool slightly.

Top the bruschette

In the meantime, grill or toast the bread, spread the ricotta, top with the slow-roasted tomatoes, fresh parsley and more cracked pepper. Serve immediately!

A mixture of tomatoes are used for this Slow Roasted Tomatoes

Want to read more?

If you enjoyed these Slow roasted tomatoes and ricotta bruschette! Check out my other Bruschette variations on this Easiest Tomato Bruschetta recipe!

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Slow Roasted Tomatoes and Ricotta Bruschetta

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 people
Slow roasted tomatoes and garlic gently oven roasted to serve on crusty bread with creamy ricotta

Ingredients

  • 500 Grams Grape, Datterini or Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 Bulb Garlic (sliced in half)
  • Half Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (125 ml)
  • 8 Sliced Thick crusty bread (Sourdough, Vienna or Baguette )
  • 6 Tbsp Ricotta
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 1 Handful Parsley (Finely chopped)

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven at 180 degrees.
    Slice the tomatoes in half and place in a small glass tray with the sliced garlic bulb, the olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Roast for 40 minutes till the tomatoes are falling apart. Remove the garlic cloves from the bulb, mash them and mix gently with the tomatoes. Check for seasoning and add more salt as required. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • In the meantime, grill or toast the bread, spread the ricotta, top with the slow-roasted tomatoes, fresh parsley and more cracked pepper. Serve immediately!

Notes

Notes: Tomatoes can be roasted ahead of time too! Once roasted and if not using immediately, let the tomatoes cool and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can top the bruschette with the mixture warm or cold.
Course: Appetizer
Keyword: bruschetta, ricotta, tomatoes
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Australia

Portarlington Mussels

The seaside town of Portarlington on the Bellarine Peninsula has been renowned for especially one thing. MUSSELS! Read on to find out more about Portarlington, its Mussels and where to eat the best ones from.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

Where is Portarlington

Portarlington is nestled in Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, just 1.5 hours from Melbourne and 30 minutes from Geelong. Just over a decade ago, this once sleepy seaside town was a quieter alternative to bustling Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads and Queenscliff if you were heading to the Bellarine Peninsula.

Grand hotel in portarlington
Portarlington Grand Hotel

But Portarlington in recent years has absolutely boomed. It gained popularity due to growing population, a new updated pier that has its own direct ferry line to Melbourne bringing loads of day-trippers, as well as a line up of festivals and events that keep the tourist coming.

Pair that with amazing sea views, and some great wineries just at your door step, making Portarlington a popular sea escape for a holiday, weekend or a day trip.

Getting there

The quickest way to get to and around Portarlington is by driving. It’s easily accessible to Melbourne and Geelong. Since the main pier re-development in 2015, there is also now a passenger ferry connection to Melbourne Docklands direct to Portarlington.

The ferry crossing takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes and runs once or twice per day depending on the day of the week. No cars can be taken on the ferry as it’s a passenger only ferry.

Portarlington ferry to docklands
Portarlington Ferry to Docklands

Prices for the 1 way crossing start are 18.50 AUD per Adults and 11 AUD for kids. Kids under 3 travel FREE but must still hold a ticket. Check on the Port Phillip Ferries Website for more information and updates.

Check Prices and Availability for Accommodation in Portarlington

Portarlington Mussels

Portarlington Mussels
Portarlington Mussels and huge cement mussels on the beach

Head to the main street on Newcombe Street and head towards the pier and you will see what this town is all about in an instant. MUSSELS!

Several cement mussel structures have been placed on the beach and can be seen as soon as you arrive near the pier! Mussels are indeed serious business here.

Portarlington has in fact been named the Mussel Capital of Victoria and these are supplied to top restaurants and sold in a lot of markets in Melbourne due to its name being renowned for quality.

Mussels have been grown in Portalington since the 1980′, but the popularity of eating these is only a recent thing of the past 40 years or so. From just a few farmers harvesting mussels, there are now over 20 mussel farmers in Port Phillip Bay.

cooked mussels
Freshly made mussels

Portarlington Mussels FAQ

What do Portarlington Mussels taste like?

The flavour profile of the Portarlington blue mussels is sweet, salty and so fresh fresh due to the clear water of Port Phillip Bay. They are not only super tasty, they are healthy too. Mussels are in fact low in fat and high in protein.

When are mussels harvested?

They are grown all year round, making them readily available!

How much do Portarlington Mussels cost per kg?

Portarlington Mussels and mussels in general are still a very affordable seafood to buy. At around 8.50 AUD per kg from your local fishmongers, it’s a generous feed for 2 people.

Where can you buy Portarlington Mussels from?

In Portarlington, you can buy the freshest mussels directly from the pier on the weekends and the local seafood shop there. See more in the section below on Where to get and eat the best mussels in Portarlington.

Outside of Portarlington, you will see these mussels for sale in major markets (like Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne) as well at some smaller farmer markets.

Devils Donuts on the Pier, the best in Portarlington!

Portarlington Mussel Festival

For what started off as a street festival back in 2007, the Portarlington Mussel Festival is now a permanent fixture in the towns events calendar. The festival has become so popular, that it now drives more than 30,000 visitors to Portarlington every year! The festival runs over one day usually in mid January, and one that has gained popularity all over Victoria.

Mussels in a red sauce

Over 200 markets stalls are set up for the event, as well as live music, kids activities, beer and wine tastings. Of course, a lot of mussels are served up on the day in a variety of ways.

The Next Mussel Festival is scheduled for Saturday the 11th of January 2025, 9.30am to 5pm. More info at Portmusselfestival.com.

Where to get and eat Portarlington Mussels from

The renovated Portarlington Pier
The renovated Portarlington Pier

Once you are in Portarlington, there are several places where you will find mussels on the menu. I’ve compiled a list below on my favourites, whether you want to make your own or dine out.

Where to buy fresh uncooked Portarlington mussels by the kilo:

  • Mr Mussel: Located on the Pier. Look for the small van that and buy the freshest mussels by the kg to make at home. Open Only on Saturdays and Sundays, 9 am to 3 pm. Price: 8-10 AUD per kg
  • Jenkins and Son Fresh Fish: The local fishmongers is located in Portarlingon just as you enter town. Jenkins and Son sells mussels and a big variety of other fresh fish and seafood, with specials depending on what has been caught on the day. Open Every day, 9 am to 5 pm. Price 8-10 AUD per kg

Restaurants specializing in Portarlington Mussels:

Pier St Restaurant Facing the beach in Portarlington
  • Pier St: Newly opened, located right on the beach on the right facing the pier. This beautiful brunch/lunch spot serves up a fabulous mussel chowder, as well as mussels in a white or tomato based sauce. Open Every day, 8 am to 3 pm. Price: 32-34 AUD per mussel main dish, full menu at pierst.com.au
  • Portarlington Grand Hotel: The stunning 1880 building right on Newcombe street offers dining in the newly refurbished stylish bistro and atrium. Mussels are served daily in a red sauce and can be on the special board served other ways too. Open Every day, 11.30 am to 8 pm (lunch and dinner service only). Price: 32 AUD per mussel main dish, full menu at portarlingtongrandhotel.com.au

Note: Little Mussel Café was another popular spot to eat Portarlington Mussels but has recently closed (July 2024). Keep an eye on the web for any potential reopening date!

Where to stay in Portarlington

There are several accommodation options to stay in Portarlington, from Motels to Caravan park and private rentals too. I’ve included below the most popular places to stay in Portarlington right in town perfect for a few days away.

Portarlington Promenade
Portarlington Promenade

Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park

On an fantastic location right in the centre of town on Portarlington Beach, this caravan park is a popular choice for visitors. Offering self-contained cabin style accommodation ranging from standard to spacious family cabins, it has camp kitchens and plenty of outdoor seating and BBQ areas.

Beach Pods at the Bellarive Bayside Caravan Park
The new beach pods at Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park in Portarlington – Image Courtesy of Expedia

For absolute beachfront accommodation, the newly built Beach Pods are located right on the beach, fitted with modern, timber look interiors (max 2 adults only).

Check Prices and Availability for Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park

Beach Pods
Beach Pods Interior – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Portarlington Beach Motel

Within an easy walk from town, the Portarlington Beach motel offers comfortable accommodation ranging from queen, studios and family & spa rooms. An outdoor solar-heated pool is available for guests to enjoy as well as a BBQ area and terrace.

Check Prices and Availability for Portarlington Beach Motel

Portarlington Beach Motel Pool – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Want to read more about Portarlington?

Hope you enjoyed this post on Portarlington Mussels!

Are you travelling to Portarlington with Kids? Check out my other post HERE for kid friendly attractions & accommodation in Portarlington.

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Australia

A weekend guide to Portarlington with Kids

This once sleepy little seaside village is now a bustling town and loved by families! Only 1.5 hours from Melbourne, with a shallow calm beach and kid-friendly attractions, Portarlington is a fantastic weekend escape destination with kids!

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Portarlington: A popular family destination on the Bellarine Peninsula

Located in the middle of Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, Portarlington has always been well known as a popular fishing destination and famous especially for it’s fresh Portarlington Mussels.

Mussels: Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay

It has in recent years gained more popularity with families holidaying and day-trippers. The town centre in the last 10-15 years has expanded, there are lots of dining options, family friendly caravan parks and a fantastic shallow beach. The popular Mussel Festival (January) and Celtic Festival (June) are extremely popular events that run once a year and defenitely put this town on the map!

Getting there

You can reach Portarlington by car in just over 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne. The nearby city of Geelong is just 30 minutes away, and historic Queenscliff just 20 minutes away, also worth a visit!

Ferry Crossing from Docklands to Portarlington

Walking the long breakwater on Portarlington Pier

In recent years with the main pier re-development, there is also now a passenger (no cars) ferry connection to Melbourne Docklands direct to Portarlington, and is popular for day-trippers. The ferry crossing takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes and runs once or twice per day depending on the day of the week.

Prices for the 1 way crossing start are 18.50 AUD per Adults and 11 AUD for kids. Kids under 3 travel FREE but must still hold a ticket. Check on the Port Phillip Ferries Website for more information and updates.

Top 5 Things to do in Portarlington with Kids

Portarlington Park

Portarlington Park

This amazing playground had a major upgrade in recent years and looks AMAZING. It’s very spacious and has amazing wood-carved sea creatures scattered throughout the park.

Portarlington Park

Perched at the top of a hill with fantastic view over the sea, it’s a firm favourite every time we visit Portarlington, There are heaps of climbing structures, as well as a small water play area with a pump and river, swings, slides, trampolines and a flying fox too!

Tuckerberry Hill Blueberry Picking

Blueberries: Image by Jan Temmel from Pixabay

If you are planning to go to Portarlington over the summer holidays, a favourite place to visit near Portarlington with kids is Tuckerberry Hill to pick the freshest and juiciest berries!

Located only 10 minutes away by car from Portarlington just outside Drysdale, here you can eat fresh berries straight off the tree and pick your own blueberries and strawberries.

Strawberries: Image by Robson Veneziani from Pixabay

Eat away as you pick and you pay per kilo for what you take home (around 20 AUD per kilo) before leaving. Tuckerberry Hill is Open 26 December to late January, 9 am to 5 pm, check on their website for opening days and times, café on site also.

Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway

Portarlington Miniature Railway

This cute miniature railway is located just outside the caravan park in Portarlington is one of the most popular attractions for young children. It’s been running for over 20 years and a favourite with locals and tourist visiting the area.

Entry to the Railway

Rides start from 4 AUD per person, kids under 2 ride FREE. There is also the option to purchase a Family Pass for 35 AUD (2 adults and up to 3 children) for unlimited rides! It’s a 10 minute ride that does 2 laps of the parklands riding the miniature train.

Playground onsite

Onsite, a café and BBQ area selling cold drinks and sausages & burgers starting from 3-4 AUD each make visiting this miniature railway a very affordable outing with the family. There is also a little playground, plenty of seating areas outdoor and undercover, as well as toilets and a giftshop.

Outside of school holidays it runs on Sundays only usually – but do check their website for opening times and days as they vary depending of the time of year.

Fishing

Fishing on Portarlington Pier

Portarlington is a really popular place for fishing and a great place to introduce fishing to young kids! Walk along the pier at any time of day or night and you will see sooo many people having a go at catching something! The updated pier has plenty of spots to fish from, some also gated making it safer for younger children.

Portarlington beach – right side of the pier

Popular catches in the area include Australian salmon, flathead and snapper. In the evening you will also see people trying their luck to catch flatheads directly from the beach too.

Portarlington Beach

Portarlington Beach

This beach directly across from the main caravan park is very popular with families as it’s a shallow, calm beach with no big waves, making it perfect for little ones. With easy access to the town centre and Portarlington Park, it’s popular over the summer months especially. There is plenty of parking right near the beach on both sides of the pier and closer to the park too.

Another nice beach nearby with lots of shaded areas for the little ones is Indented Head, just 7 minutes drive from Portarlington and has facilities and a small playground too.

Where to stay in Portarlington with Kids

Budget Accommodation – Dylene Caravan Park

Located just outside the main town centre towards St Leonards off the esplanade, Dylene Caravan Park offers basic cabin accommodation as well as some upgraded cabins. The facilities at this caravan park include a small playground, BBQ area, games room and a small outdoor pool.

Check Availability and Prices for Dylene Caravan Park HERE

Dylene Caravan Park: Image courtesy of Expedia

Midrange Accommodation – Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park

On an enviable location right in the centre of town and right on Portarlington Beach, this caravan park is a popular choice for travellers. Offering self contained cabin style accommodation ranging from standard to spacious family cabins, as well playgrounds, games room, camp kitchens and plenty of outdoor seating and BBQ areas.

Check Availability and Prices for Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park

Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park: Image courtesy of Expedia

Luxury Accommodation – Oxley Estate

Only 3 minutes from the centre of Portarlington near the golf course, Oxley Estate is set on 10 acres of land among manicured gardens, orchards and farmland with animals. The estate offers a total of 5 accommodation options that include rooms, as well as cottages that are fully self contained. A small playground as well as an outdoor pool looking over the gardens will keep the kids entertained!

Check Availability and Prices for Oxley Estate HERE

Oxley Estate: Image courtesy of Expedia

Where to eat in Portarlington

There are lots of options on places to eat or have an afternoon treat in Portarlington with kids. Our favourites are these:

  • Pier Front Pizzeria: Traditional woodfire Pizzeria
  • Pier St (recently renovated): Modern Brunch, Lunch & Mussel restaurant on the water, kids menu available!
  • The Bakehouse Portarlington: Classic country bakery
  • Devils Donuts: Look for the van (and the queues!) on the left side of the car park facing Portarlington pier. THE most delicious, classic hot jam donuts, dusted in abundant sugar. A firm favourite when visiting Portarlington.
  • Portarlington Food Park: Permanent rotating food trucks set up with a variety of foods, ice-cream and coffee. Seasonally opened for lunch and dinner, has outdoor seating.
  • Staple Eatery and Deli: Deli-style café with italian style gourmet sandwiches & pizza.
Devils Donuts near Portarlington Pier

Want to read more about Portarlington?

Looking for more kid friendly adventures near Portarlington? Adventure Park Geelong is only 20 minutes away!

Hope you enjoyed reading my post on Portarlington with Kids! You can read more about Portarlington and the renowned Portarlington Mussels and where to get them from HERE!

If you want to explore more on seaside destinations in Victoria, you can check out my other post on Warrnambool with Kids HERE.

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