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.
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.
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!
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.
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 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!
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If you liked this granola recipe – in the making I have a Nut-Free Chocolate Granola coming soon!
Maple Honey Nut Granola perfect to top your breakfast
Equipment
2 Oven Trays 25 x 40 cm
Ingredients
Dried Ingredients
500grRolled Oats
1CupMixed Chopped nuts(such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, pecans or hazelnuts)
1CupPepita Seeds
HalfCupBlack Chia Seeds
1Cup Dried Shredded Coconut
Half CupCacao Nibs(optional)
Wet Ingredients
3tbspCoconut Oil(melted)
3tbspMaple Syrup
3 tbspHoney
2tspVanilla 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!
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
Comfortableand Spacious Apartments fitted with everything you need!
Views of the Brisbane Story Bridge from Howard Smith Wharves
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!).
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.
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!
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 in the Altitude Suite
A 4 seater, round marble top table in the main dining table.
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!
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 & 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.
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.
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 – 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 Area
Gymnasium
Large gymnasium with workout equipment and weights.
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 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
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!
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Hope you enjoyed reading this Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review, of the the best Brisbane Hotels with a view!
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Combine egg yolks and sugar
In a separate bowl, combine the egg yolks and sugar and beat until pale for 5 minutes.
Add mascarpone
Add the mascarpone to the eggs.
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.
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.
A traditional northern italian dessert made with sponge fingers, dipped in coffee and layered with mascarpone cream
Ingredients
3Eggs(separated whites / yolks)
3 tbspSugar(white or caster sugar)
500grMascarpone Cheese
30-40Savoiardi biscuits(400 gr approx)
1.5cupsEspresso Coffee(300 ml approx)
2tbspCocoa 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
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I hope you enjoyed this recipe of classic italian tiramisu. More easy delicious dessert recipes coming soon!
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
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
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:Kids menu, plenty of place to run around outside
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.
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!
Thinly sliced potatoes baked with a creamy garlic sauce till crispy
Equipment
1 Circular Cast Iron Pot 30 cm
Ingredients
2kgRoasting Potatoes (Peeled and Thinly Sliced half a cm thick)
1cupCooking Cream(250 ml)
1cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1cupChicken or Vegetable Stock(200 ml)
3TbspOlive Oil
4SprigsRosemary
3 ClovesGarlic(Thinly Sliced)
1TspSalt
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.
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!
Slow roasted tomatoes and garlic gently oven roasted to serve on crusty bread with creamy ricotta
Ingredients
500GramsGrape, Datterini or Cherry Tomatoes(halved)
1BulbGarlic(sliced in half)
HalfCupExtra Virgin Olive Oil(125 ml)
8SlicedThick crusty bread (Sourdough, Vienna or Baguette )
6TbspRicotta
Salt
Pepper
1HandfulParsley(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.
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.Want to try them? The Portarlington Mussel festival is on Saturday 11 January 2025, from 9.30 am to 5 pm!
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.
Portarlington Grand Hotel
But Portarlington in recent years has absolutely boomed. It gained popularity due to its 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
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.
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 instantly. 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 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 Portarlington 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.
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 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 Portarlington Mussel Festival, as well as live music across 3 stages (The Robbie William Tribute Experience is the headlining act this year), kids activities, beer and wine tastings. Of course, a lot of mussels are served up on the day in a variety of ways, think Paella, mussel pies and chowder! Entry to the festival is $5 cash for Adults and Free for Kids.
The Portarlington Mussel Festival is scheduled for Saturday the 11th of January 2025, 9.30 am to 5 pm. More info at Portmusselfestival.com.
Extra ferries run from Docklands on the day but they do get booked out due to the popularity of the event so you must book ahead! Check on the Port Phillip Ferries Website for more information and updates.
Where to get and eat Portarlington Mussels from
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 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 Portarlington 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
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.
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).
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Merimbula in the NSW coast is a fantastic family friendly destination. With so many activities for kids of all ages, that includes fishing, outdoor adventures and even it’s own theme park, there is something to do for everyone! These are the Top 8 Things to do in Merimbula 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!
Why Merimbula is a great family destination
Lots of natural attractions to explore and opportunities to learn about the local wildlife
A proper town centre well equipped with everything you need and with things to do for the whole family, for younger and older children
Magic Mountain theme park is lots of fun and makes for an exciting day out in Merimbula
Read on to find out more on the Top 8 Things to do in Merimbula with Kids!
These are the 8 Top Things to do in Merimbula with kids.
Magic Mountain
Minigolf at Magic Mountain
Guaranteed fun for all the family is Magic Mountain, one of the Top Things to do in Merimbula with Kids. Merimbula’s own theme park has been around for over 30 years and popular with locals and tourist alike.
It is located just a few minutes out of town. Entry to the theme park gives you access to all the rides. It includes a toboggan ride, minigolf, a rollercoaster, dodgem carts, tube rider and more. In summer there are also 2 extremely popular (and steep) water slides and a play pool for younger ones.
Rollercoaster at Magic Mountain
There is plenty of space for picnics, as well as a playground, a maze, bouncy castle and of course a café to fuel up for the day. We spent the whole day here and the kids had an absolute ball.
DETAILS: Open daily in summer and on selected dates during VIC/NSW school holidays from 10am to 4pm – 59 AUD for adults, 52 AUD for children 4 to 12 yrs. Children below 4 years have FREE entry. Discounts offered for pre-booking online and for season passes. Some days the park can be closed for private functions, check the website first! More info on the website HERE.
Bega Heritage Centre
Bega Heritage Centre
A popular place to the take the kids for a tasty cheese toastie is of course Bega! Bega is the home of popular Bega Cheese and you can reach it in just 30 minutes drive from Merimbula.
Head to theBega Heritage Centre, onsite where the Bega Factory is to see the wonderfully recreated farmhouse, machinery and cows that the kids will love looking at and learning more about. The in-house buzzing café is great for lunch or to stock up on local goodies and cheese for a picnic.
DETAILS: Open daily 9 am to 4 pm. Entry to the Farmhouse is FREE for a look around! More info on the website HERE.
Merimbula Beach & Ford Park
Merimbula Beach
The pristine 5 km stretch of sand of the Merimbula Main beach is a must see for families. It’s patrolled over summer and has plenty of space to play in the sand and water.
Ford Park
Just backing on the beach, Ford Park playground is perfect for little ones and popular with locals and families here on holidays. It’s fully fenced and also has lots of sitting areas and BBQs. The Merimbula Seaside Market is also hosted here on the 3rd Sunday of each month.
Merimbula Boardwalk
Merimbula Boardwalk
This stunning walk is an easy stroll for kids and stroller friendly. The Merimbula Boardwalk stretches from just off the main street at Market Streets and stretches for just over 3 km (return loop). Young ones will enjoy being able to see up close all the oysters, fish and oyster farms on the shallow wooden boardwalk.
For rainy days, Top Fun is an indoor and outdoor fun place for the whole family. Top Fun has a 10 pin bowling alley, laser tag, 18 hole minigolf, as well as a full arcade with heaps of games.
DETAILS: Open daily 10 am to 8 pm, longer weekends and summertime. Each activity is charged separately. Prices starting from 8 AUD for kids and 15 AUD for adults playing minigolf. Discounts offered COMBO deals starting from 26 AUD per person to play in 2 attractions to include Minigolf, Lasertag and Bowling. Check the website for the most up do date opening hours HERE.
Barefoot Bowls at Club Sapphire
Barefoot Bowls at the Club Sapphire
Club Sapphire in Merimbulais a huge entertainment complex with restaurants and a full sized lawn bowls club. A fantastic budget family friendly activity in Merimbula is Barefoot Bowls, the spacious undercover lawn bowls also has a playground for kids right next to the lawns!
The attached Pacific Bistro serves up delicious pub meals with a kids menu and perfect for a feed after a game of bowls. Kitty’s Bar and Restaurantalso onsite is a popular dining spot for delicious Asian fusion meals and has kid friendly dining on Wednesdays and Thursday nights.
Dining at the Pacific Bistro
DETAILS: Club Sapphire is Open daily 10 am to 10 pm, longer weekends and summertime. 2 hour Barefoot Bowl sessions Prices can be booked HERE starting from 10.50 AUD for kids and 16 AUD for adults playing. Discounts Family Pass for 2 adults and up to 3 children at 42 AUD. Check the website for the most up do date opening hours HERE. Bookings necessary HERE for dining in the bistro or at Kitty’s.
Another family – friendly popular attraction in Merimbula is Potoroo Palace. If you are an animal lover and are looking for experiences to interact and get up close with local wildlife and see some potooroos, Potooroo Palace is the perfect place. This wildlife park is less than 10 minute drive from the centre of Merimbula and allows you to Feed free roaming kangaroos, ride the miniature train and have close up encounters with koalas, reptiles and many more incredible animals.
DETAILS: Open daily 9am to 4pm – 25 AUD for adults, 16 AUD for children over 3 yrs. Children below 3 years are charged 5 AUD. Discounts offered for family tickets.
Merimbula Wharf and Aquarium
Merimbula Aquarium
Perched at the top of a popular fishing pier in Merimbula, the Wharf in Merimbula is not only a amazing seafood restaurant, it’s also a full size 70,000 litre aquarium with over 20 tanks with local and tropical sea creatures!
A highlight for little ones is seeing the fish during feeding times at 11.30am every Wednesdays & Fridays and on Thursdays also during school holidays.
DETAILS: Open Wed to Sunday 10am to 4pm, longer on weekends – 25 AUD for adults, 17 AUD for children. Discounts offered for family tickets. Check on the website for the most up to date details.
Where is Merimbula
Merimbula
Merimbula is located in NSW, 75 km from the Victorian Border, and approximately 7 hours drive from Melbourne. From Merimbula, you can reach Sydney in 6 hours drive, and Canberra in a 3 hours drive.
Merimbula is also served by Merimbula Airport that has local and charter flights operating across regional cities as well as Melbourne and Sydney (just one 1 hour flight time).
Where to stay in Merimbula
There are so many places to stay in Merimbula for families. From self catering accommodation to caravans parks, there is something to suit all budgets!
Luxury Family friendly accommodation
Coast Resort Merimbula is a great accommodation option for families! The resort offers luxury townhouses and apartments with stylish interiors as well as 2 swimming pools and a tennis court. The resort is also located just a short walk to the main beach in Merimbula and the popular Ford Park Playground, just across the road. You can read my full review here.
NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort is a fantastic resort for kids. A playground, pool and school holidays club will keep the kids entertained. With holiday cabins ranging from budget friendly standard cabins up to Spa Villas and Glamping tents, there is something to suit every budget.
Hope you enjoyed this post on the Top 8 things to in Merimbula with Kids!
Want to venture to more places in the area like the hidden Eden Rockpools or the Killer Whale Museum? You can read more about it in my other post on the Top 7 Experiences in and around Merimbula HERE.
If you are thinking of taking the family to the snow in Victoria, Lake Mountain is the perfect place as a first experience of the snow for young kids. Read through these tried and tested Frugal Tips and FAQ for visiting Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with kids in the 2025 snow season that will save you time, money, and STRESS! All that will be left to do is to HAVE FUN!
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 Lake Mountain
Located in the Yarra Ranges, at just 2 hours from Melbourne, Lake Mountain is the closest place to the city where you can get to the snow. It’s perfect for a weekend away this winter!
Getting to Lake Mountain
You can get there on the Maroondah Highway and via Healesville and Marysville, through the lush green forest of the Black Spur. The best way to get there is by self-driving, no shuttle is available this year to reach the mountain from Marysville.
The scenic Black Spur Drive from Healesville to Marysville
Where to stay in Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with Kids
There are plenty of places to stay near Lake Mountain for a fantastic snow getaway with the family.
Marysville is the perfect place to stay when visiting Lake Mountain and that is 30 minutes drive to the entry for Lake Mountain. Peppers Marysville is a popular accommodation resort located right in the centre of Marysville, this beautiful resort has rooms that can cater for families with 2 double beds or a double bed with a sofa bed.
Healesville is also another popular destination to stay when going to Lake Mountain and is 1 hour away.
Top Frugal Tips when visiting Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with Kids in 2025
Save time and Pre-Book Resort entry
Entry to the resort is set for the 2025 season at 67 AUD per car. You need to pay this just to enter the mountain, even if you do not want to use the toboggans or cross country ski. The entry fee can be paid at the gate when you arrive at the mountain.
You can pre-book online to save time! The process to book online is easy and you can do it in the morning before you drive up, just don’t forget to check the Live Cam first on the website to check snow / access conditions!
Get there early to get a car spot close to the slopes
The resort and facilities at Lake Mountain open at 8am so ideally you want to get there as early as you can (by 8.30-9am). Not only the snow conditions are generally better first thing in the morning but you also want to get a car park ideally as close as the toboggan runs as possible.
You will be bound to be going back and forward to the car for food, drinks etc..so having the car close by rather than a long walk away will be super handy. On the weekends – by about 10 am (and sometimes earlier) both the upper car parks are full!
In that case you would need to park the car further along the road, and sometimes even on the secondary car park that is even further down.
Pack your lunch and take lots of snacks
Image by LuckyLife 11 from Pixabay
Playing in the snow is tiring and makes kids HUNGRY! Take lots of snacks and food for your day at the snow. If you have a Thermos / Insulated Flask to take some hot water to make hot chocolate, tea/coffee for the grown ups it will go down a treat to warm you up.
There is one café onsite but it does get extremely busy during lunchtime with wait times of sometimes an hour, especially on the weekends. Having things with you will save you lots of time and money for your day to the snow!
Bring some beach toys and things to build a snowman
Pack some playing tools like shovels/diggers to play in the snow. It’s a great way to keep the kids busy if they need a break from the toboggans or for younger ones.
And don’t forget CARROTS to build a snowman too of course!
Lake Mountain gets cold. The average temperature during the winter months of June, July and August are between 4 and -1 degrees! Jeans, runners, tracksuit pants or gumboots just won’t do the job in keeping you warm and dry. There isn’t really any seating on the top of the mountain in the play area too! Kids, especially will need that extra layer of clothing to be comfortable on the day.
I prefer to buy my gear rather than hiring it – as the cost for the kids clothing is not much more than hiring and I can keep it for the following year!
You might already have some winter clothing items to wear from home without needing to buy / hire them. If you have a thick winter or puffer jacket, preferably waterproof already at home, that will be suitable for the snow (provided there is not too much rain on the day).
Beanies, thick jumpers, scarves and long socks will be needed to for the snow too.
Essential snow gear required
If you are just planning to do some tobogganing on Lake Mountain, and want to buy your gear to keep, the essential gear that you will need to buy is this (this goes for adults and kids):
Snow boots: Gumboots just won’t do the job in keeping little feet warm and dry as snow can easily get in!
Snow pants: These are worn over pants and are waterproof, as well as being lined and tied at the bottom to keep the snow out and keep you dry
Snow gloves: To keep hands dry and warm. TIP: Younger children might prefer snow mittens, as they are easier to wear than snow gloves
Plastic Toboggans: 1 adult and 1 small child (under 5) can ride on one toboggan so you would usually have 2 for a 2 adult & 2 small kids family to all ride together. Our older son wanted to go on his own, so we found 2 were sufficient anyway with me and my husband taking turns in taking the kids.
Make sure to also pack a spare change of clothes and socks for the car ride home or to your accommodation so that everyone is warm and dry!
Hiring gear from Lake Mountain
You can also HIRE your snow gear in Lake Mountain. Note though there is only 1 hire shop on the mountain and it can be quite busy during weekends and peak period.
Price wise, you are looking at around 55 AUD for a package to hire a child snowsuit, toboggan and boots. The cost for an adult to hire a snow jacket, pants, toboggan and boots is around 75 AUD. If you are staying in Marysville, you could also hire all your snow gear in Marysville in advance to save time!
Also note that in Lake Mountain you cannot hire snow gloves. You would need to purchase these onsite at the retail shop! Or buy those in advance at your local outdoor shop instead!
FAQ
When is the Snow Season at Lake Mountain Alpine resort?
The official 2025 snow season at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort begins on 7th June and ends of the 5th of October 2025. Lake Mountain Alpine Resorts operates Thursday to Mondays, from 8 to 4pm. During Victorian school holidays the Resort is opened every day.
Make sure to ALWAYS check on the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Website for live updates on opening days and weather conditions before travelling to the mountain!
What kids age group is Lake Mountain Alpine Resort best suited for?
Lake Mountain is perfect for a first family trip to the snow for a day so suitable for kids as young as toddlers. The resort area is small, easy to get around and the snow is easily accessible from the carpark.
Village Toboggan Run
What snow activities are available at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort?
The resort caters for tobogganing, cross country skiing and snow play. There are 4 toboggan runs at the resort. From this 2025 season, if you wish to use the toboggan runs, 3 of these are ticketed.
Village Toboggan Run, Koala Creek and Mini Toboggan Run are included with the Toboggan Access Ticket (30 AUD per person, Adult and Child Under 5 can ride together for 40 AUD per person). The Magic Carpet (the conveyor belt that takes you back up the hill) is also included in this price but may operate or not depending on how busy and weather conditions.
These 3 toboggan runs are topped up with artificial snow throughout the season if there is not sufficient snow. On the ticketed toboggan runs – toboggan hire IS included this year and you cannot take your own toboggan on these runs.
Magic Carpet on the Village Toboggan Run
One of the Toboggan Runs is accessible without the Park Access, the Leadbeater Toboggan Run. Note this run is only open if there is sufficient natural snow and here you can use your own toboggan.
If you don’t want to go on the toboggan runs, there are still many viewing areas and plenty of play snow areas for younger children!
There are no skiing or snowboarding facilities in Lake Mountain. No cross country ski lessons this 2025 season.
How much does it cost for a family to go to Lake Mountain for a day trip?
If you are travelling for a day trip to the snow, account for:
Resort Entry per car 67 AUD
Toboggan Park Access 30 AUD per person (Under 5 yrs can toboggan with an adult for 40 AUD)
Lunch costs / snacks
Hire of snow gear / toboggans, Around 60 AUD per child and 80 AUD per adult
Can you stay overnight in Lake Mountain?
No, there are no hotels on the mountain itself and camping is prohibited. The closest towns to stay are Marysville (30 minutes away), Narbethong (35 minutes drive) or Healesville (1 hour away). You can read more about it above in the Where to Stay when visiting Lake Mountain section. You can also browse on Expedia on the link below!
What weather is best for the snow at Lake Mountain Resort?
A sunny, clear day is best when going to the snow! Any rain or snow makes the day cold and wet, especially for little ones. Always check snow conditions on the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Website before travelling. The website has a live snow camera where you can get live footage of the snow conditions too!
Do I need to carry snow chains at Lake Mountain Alpine Resort?
On snow days, you may be required to have snow chains to carry in your car. Check ahead of your visit on the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort website for weather conditions. Always check if you are required to carry or fit snow chains on your car before travelling to the mountain. More information on Chain days HERE. Wheel chains are available for hire in Marysville.
Want to read more?
Thank you for reading this post on Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with Kids in 2025. You can read more about Things to do in Healesvillein my other post here.
