family holidays Archives - Salty Sweet Journeys

Australia January 22, 2025

A weekend guide to Ballarat with Kids

Ballarat: A perfect place for little explorers

A perfect destination to spend a weekend with kids, Ballarat is a short drive from Melbourne and with some incredible enriching attractions for the whole family. Learn about history when Ballarat was the centre of the gold rush era in the 1850s by exploring Sovereign Hill, riding the vintage tram or strolling through the manicured botanical gardens. Check out the guide below on the best things to do in Ballarat with Kids.

Getting to Ballarat

Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Ballarat is easily accessible by car and by regional train from the centre of Melbourne. V-Line trains depart every hour from Southern Cross station and take 1.5 hours to reach Ballarat Station. It’s the perfect close enough destination from Melbourne to spend a weekend with kids!

Why choose Ballarat for a family weekend trip

Short easy drive from Melbourne or an easy commute via regional train
A town steeped in history, with interesting historical attractions like the Ballarat Tramway Museum & Sovereign Hill to learn about the gold rush era in Australia
A stunning lake with manicured gardens for a picnic and plenty of fun activities for the little ones

Lydiard St Ballarat — Lydiard Street, the main grand street in Ballarat

Top 5 Attractions to see when in Ballarat with Kids

Sovereign Hill

For everyone that comes to visit Ballarat, especially from interstate and overseas, Sovereign Hill is THE MUST see attraction in Ballarat. Experience a fully living museum showing what life was like in the 1850s during the gold rush era in the Ballarat area.

Walk the streets of the old town (where everyone who works there is also dressed in traditional clothing), pan for gold in the river or check out the mines to look for some gold. There is so much more too! A place where you can easily spend the whole day. During the winter school holidays in June / July, Sovereign Hill comes alive for its Winter Wonderlights.

You can read my full review of Sovereign Hill coming soon HERE. Entry to Sovereign Hill is 49.50 AUD for Adults and 31 AUD for kids ages 5 and above. Open daily 10 am to 5 pm, except for mondays outside holidays.

Ballarat Wildlife Park

The Ballarat Wildlife Park is a must for animal lovers and beaming with native Australian animals! You can hand-feed the free-roaming kangaroos and see many other animals like koalas, wombats, meerkats, reptiles, crocodiles and even tigers.

Presentation and talks run throughout the day so check ahead the schedule so you don’t miss out! Close-up encounters with the animals are also available at an additional cost. Entry to the Ballarat Wildlife Park is 40 AUD per adults and 20 AUD for kids 5 yrs and above. Family tickets are available at a discounted rate for 95 AUD for 2 adults and up to 4 children.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens located opposite Lake Wenduree are a wonderful spot for a walk-through or picnic! The shaded grassed areas are plentiful and there is heaps of space to run around for the kids. The 40-hectare garden also has lots of fountains, gazebos and a beautiful conservatory to explore.

The gardens come alive in March for the Ballarat Begonia Festival which is when floral displays and the festival take over the gardens and parts of the city. More information at the Ballarat Begonia Festival Website. The Festival is set to run from 8 to 10 March 2025.

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Ballarat vintage tram and museum, a perfect attraction to visit when visiting Ballarat on a weekend with kids — Ballarat Tram & Museum

A fun and affordable outing for a family is the Ballarat Tram Museum. The museum has a large collection of beautifully restored late 1800s’ trams and play areas for children. The tram ride is run by volunteers who beautifully explain the history of the tramways in Ballarat and how the trams used to operate.

The entry includes access to the museum as well as a tram ride on the historic trams along the 3.2 km track from the museum along Lake Wenduree and back. A real hit with the kids! Entry to the museum and 1 tram ride is 40 AUD for 2 adults and 2 children. Open most days 11 am to 4 pm, check website as some days they have closures.

Lake Wenduree Apex Adventure Playground & Paddle Boats

This is a must-see when visiting Ballarat with Kids and is guaranteed to be lots of fun for the little ones. Lake Wenduree Adventure playground is huge and in a great location facing Lake Weduree and is surrounded by grassed areas, which makes for a perfect spot for a picnic too. A Tram ice cream van is also on-site during the holidays.

Another fun thing to do over on the lake too not far from the playground (walking towards the Botanical Gardens just before Pipers by the Lake), families can also hire pedal boats for a paddle on Lake Wenduree. Note the pedal boats operate subject to weather conditions, 22 AUD for 20 minutes, cash or PayID only.

Family friendly dining in Ballarat

Bakery window at 1816 Ballarat — Croissaints at 1816 Bakery in Ballarat

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating in Ballarat, these are some family favourite places to eat in Ballarat:

1816 Bakehouse: A sourdough artisanal bakery, it’s must try stop for all deliciously freshly baked goods, think croissants, pastries, pies, bread, pizza and more. Perfect to pick up some yummy treats for a picnic! 1806.com.au
The Forge Pizzeria: A longstanding traditional italian pizzeria dishing out amazing thin-crust pizza from the woodfire oven. They also recently added a second location in Ballarat! theforgepizzeria.com
Hideaway Coffee Bar: Perfect for a tasty breakfast & brunch, 10 AUD Kids menu options available. hideawayballarat.com
Eclectic Tastes Cafe & Pantry: Not far from the lake and another great spot for breakfast/brunch, an extensive kids menu is available. eclecticstastes.com.au
Golden Point Hotel: Located close to Sovereign Hill, this family-friendly bistro offers pub classics, as well as pizza and some international options. Kids menu available and a huge indoor Kids Planet playground! goldenpointhotel.com.au

Where to stay in Ballarat with Kids

Best Budget Accommodation in Ballarat – Sovereign Park Motor Inn

Sovereign Park Motor Inn Indoor pool – Image courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for Sovereign Park Motor Inn on Expedia HERE

Conveniently located close to Sovereign Hill (10 minute walk), the Sovereign Park Motor Inn is perfect for families looking for good value and great facilities in one place.

The Motor Inn has an indoor pool as well as an indoor pickleball court, table tennis and pool tables available for guests to use. The rooms have all the amenities you need for a short stay and family rooms as well as larger 2 bedroom suites are available. It’s a great option if you need a place to stay in Ballarat with Kids!

Check Prices and Availability for Sovereign Park Motor Inn on Expedia HERE

Mid Range, Spacious Accommodation in Ballarat – Quest Ballarat Station

The modern interiors of Quest Ballarat Central -Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for Quest Ballarat Station on Expedia HERE

This recent addition by Quest Apartments offers modern accommodations in studios and larger apartments equipped with all the best amenities. The location is central to the city just a short walk from Ballarat Station.

Check Prices and Availability for Quest Ballarat Station on Expedia HERE

Trendy Accommodation in Ballarat – The Provincial Ballarat

One of the stylish rooms at the Provincial Ballarat – Image courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for The Provincial Boutique Hotel Ballarat on Expedia HERE

This beautifully restored, historic pub now has individually decorated rooms and suites. 1 & 2 Bedroom stylish apartments are available for families. The property also has a trendy onsite restaurant and bar called Lola, that serves up modern European dishes with locally sourced produce. A kids menu is also available.

Check Prices and Availability for The Provincial Boutique Hotel Ballarat on Expedia HERE

Want to read more about Ballarat?

You can read more about Ballarat in my other post on Sovereign Hill coming soon.

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Australia December 27, 2024

Novotel Melbourne on Collins Review

With a location that is hard to beat, staying at Novotel Melbourne on Collins means you have all the best of Melbourne’s dining and shopping right at your doorstep. With family-friendly facilities like a kids area, pool, and a fantastic buffet breakfast, this hotel is a great spot for a family staycation in the city. This is my Novotel Melbourne on Collins Review.

_{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!}

Things to love about Novotel Melbourne on Collins

Stay in the heart of the city in this fantastic Central Location in Melbourne’s premium street, Collins Street. The best dining and shopping in Melbourne at your doorstep!
Great facilities like a Kids corner with a ping pong table, heated pool, gym and hot tub as well as dining in the renovated bar & restaurant offering a great buffet breakfast!
Spacious, comfortable rooms, including family rooms.

To check out Prices and Availability For Novotel Melbourne on Collins, click HERE

pool novotel on collins — Pool area at the Novotel on Collins, level 7

Rooms – Novotel Melbourne on Collins Review

Bedroom in Junior Suite at the Novotel on Collins

Room types at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins

The Novotel Melbourne on Collins is a large hotel with 380 rooms in total spread over 7 floors above the St Collins Lane shopping mall (currently under renovation).

Most of the rooms face the indoor atrium / mall rather than the street, which is currently under construction.

Bedroom facing the internal atrium on level 12

Some of the areas of the hotel have been renovated in recent years like the restaurant, bar and pool area.

This hotel has been around for some time, so the rooms, although very clean and spacious, are starting to show their age. After a whole day out exploring, the super convenient location and a comfy bed and good shower was all we wanted!

The room types available at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins are:

Standard Queen or Twin
Deluxe King or Double Double
Deluxe Spa King
Junior Suite
Family Suite with King and 2 Singles (48 sqm)
Accessible Room

Junior Suite with Sofa Bed

junior suite novotel on collins — Junior Suite with Rollaway

To check out Prices and Availability For Novotel Melbourne on Collins, click HERE

We stayed (2 adults & 2 kids) in a Junior Suite which has a king bed with additional rollaway beds or a double sofa for children.

Even though we had 2 rollaway beds made up for us in the room near the sofa (there was an issue with our sofa bed hence the rollaway beds), the room honestly did not feel too small, there was still plenty of space to store our belongings and have the 4 of us stay there.

amenities in room novotel on collins — Espresso maker with Nespresso Pods

The room is a spacious suite with an espresso pod machine, minibar (not stocked), kettle and a selection of teas and coffee pods.

Unstocked minibar below Espresso Machine

A large desk with chair is in the room, along with a 40 inch flat screen TV with Foxtel.

A Sofa and Eames lounge chair with ottoman are in the room too.

Slippers and bathrooms are available (on request). A safe and iron is also available in the room.

The spacious ensuite bathroom has a walk-in shower (no bath). Hair dryer and amenities such as soap dispensers, toothbrushes and shaving kits are stocked in the bathroom.

Environmentally conscious initiatives at Novotel Melbourne on Collins

The hotel the Compendium is accessible via the TV. There are NO plastic water bottles in the room (just one glass one in the minibar), no toiletries bottles, only soap dispensers.

Hotel Facilities – Novotel Melbourne on Collins Review

One of the highlights of the hotel is the facilities. They make the Novotel Melbourne on Collins quite a family-friendly hotel, perfect for a weekend shopping getaway and a great option for business travellers too, due to the central location right in the centre of Melbourne.

The hotel also has conferencing facilities and space for hire for smaller and larger conferences and events for up to 230 guests in the Australian Ballroom onsite.

Pool & Fitness Centre

On Level 7 you will find the Pool, Spa and Gym, the entire area was refurbished in 2020. There were pool towels and seating with couches on the balcony that overlooks the shopping mall (St Collins Lane – currently under renovation).

The pool area was well maintained, but it is not very big and it can get crowded during busy times and weekends so head there early or later in the evening to beat the crowds.

pool and spa novotel on collins — Pool and Hot Tub at the Novotel

The well-equipped gym has modern cardio machines and weights. Showers and facilities are located within the gym.

To check out Prices and Availability For Novotel Melbourne on Collins, click HERE

Kids Corner

Beside the lobby near the room lifts on level 3, the Novotel on Collins has a great kids area with a Ping Pong table, sitting area and Jenga blocks.

Parking at Novotel Melbourne on Collins

The hotel has limited valet parking available, which costs 64 AUD per car per day. There is also the option to self-park in a nearby car park on nearby Manchester Lane for 42 AUD per car per day.

Bar & Dining

Lane Bar and Restaurant is located on Level 3 near the lobby. The spacious bar and restaurant offer an extensive drinks menu as well as cocktails.

They also run themed drinks based on what is happening in the city! At the time of our stay (Dec 2024) they had some themed cocktails for the release of the new Wicked movie.

Lane Restaurant is also where the buffet breakfast is served and is open for dinner with a modern Australian a-la-carte menu. The light dining room has great views over Collins Street.

Group offerings and a Kids menu are also available.

For meals during other times, including overnight, the hotel offers a room service menu (tray charge applicable).

Breakfast Buffet at Novotel Melbourne on Collins

We were quite impressed by the buffet breakfast spread and quality at the Novotel on Collins. It was worth having it as part of the room for our stay and we all enjoyed it!

breakfast offering novotel melbourne on collins — Cold breakfast selection

Breakfast at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins: What you need to know

Breakfast at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins Melbourne is served at Lane Restaurant on level 3.
Breakfast is served from 6.30 am until 10 am on weekdays and from 7 am to 11 am on Weekends and public holidays.
We had breakfast as part of our room package but it can also be purchased on check-in at 38 AUD per person.
Breakfast is FREE for Children under 16 years if staying in a room with breakfast with 2 paying adults.

Cold Buffet Selection

The cold buffet included mixed pastries, mini muffins, hot waffles, toast and fresh bread assortments.

There is also an automated pancake machine, cold cuts and cheeses, and a selection of mini smoothies, bircher muesli and yogurt pots.

Fresh yogurts are available, with assorted fruits such as poached pears with saffron & apricots. Various cereals assortment also.

Hot Buffet Selection

The hot buffet included chipolata sausages, bacon, scrambled eggs, hash browns, mushrooms, baked beans and tomatoes.

hot breakfast buffet novotel melbourne on collins — Hot Buffett at Novotel Melbourne on Collins

There was also an international section with saffron rice, spiced chickpeas and congee with condiments.

We could also ask the chef in charge for a serving of made-to-order eggs your way (included in the breakfast price). That included poached, sunny side, scrambled or omelettes.

made to order eggs novotel melbourne on collins — Made to order eggs available at the breakfast buffet

Beverage Selection

For hot and cold beverages, there is a section with juice dispensers (3), a selection of teas and a fresh juice press where you can choose your fresh fruit for it.

A self-service automated coffee machine is available for coffee. Barista-made coffee can be ordered from the coffee counter at the bar for an additional charge.

Automated Coffee machine and bread selection

Family Friendly Facilities at Novotel Melbourne on Collins

I found the Novotel Melbourne on Collins to be very family-friendly! The staff were so welcoming with the kids, they also gave us some kids activity packs at breakfast which was a nice touch.

The pool had lots of other children enjoying a play also. The Kids Corner at the lobby on level 3 was also a big hit, with Jenga and Ping Pong Table to keep the kids occupied.

Location of Novotel Melbourne on Collins

Novotel Melbourne on Collins is located in an incredible location right in the heart of the city. It’s just a 5-minute walk to reach Flinders Street Station and is within the shopping district of Melbourne.

Shops and Luxury boutiques line all of Collins Street and Burke Street Mall is just a 2-minute walk from the hotel.

Flinders Street Station – Image by Paul Macallan from Pixabay

Novotel Melbourne on Collins is located in the premium St Collins Lane shopping mall, previously called Australia on Collins. The inside mall across the 2 first floors is currently under renovation and not open.

Internal Atrium view at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins

It is set to reopen in late 2025-2026 with plans for a new bowling arcade, bar, karaoke as well as dining and a co-working space.

BOOK Novotel Melbourne on Collins

Hope you enjoyed reading this Novotel Melbourne on Collins Review.

To check out Prices and Availability For Novotel Melbourne on Collins, click HERE

Still looking for Melbourne Hotels?

Still looking for a hotel? Check out all the hotels in Melbourne on Expedia HERE.

You can also read Check out my other reviews on Melbourne Marriott Docklands HERE and Dorsett Melbourne HERE.

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Australia November 10, 2024

Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island

This tiny island just 90 minutes from Melbourne packs so many attractions that everyone in the family can enjoy. From seeing the biggest fairy penguin colony in the world at the Penguin Parade to venturing to the many amazing beaches, Phillip Island has something to do for the whole family! Read on to find out more on the Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island.

_{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 choose Phillip Island for a family holiday

This little island is a fantastic destination for a family holiday. Let me tell you why:

A haven for animals and wildlife lovers. The Penguins of course the star attraction but also so many other places to see lots of animals.
Amazing beaches all over the island, from calm beaches for toddlers like Cowes main beach to surf beaches like Cape Woolamai (did you know it’s one of the Hemsworth brothers favourite beach to surf??). Check out all the FREE attractions to see in Phillip Island on my other post!
Accommodation options for all budgets, from cozy cabins in one of the many caravan parks to fully serviced apartments and holiday homes.

How to get to Phillip Island

Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne by car, Phillip Island is close enough to be popular for day trippers, or people travelling there for the weekend or holiday. To get to the island, you will need to cross a road bridge from San Remo. Plan ahead during busy times or holiday periods as it can get busy or stop off in San Remo for some lunch or to see the Pelican Feeding!

You can reach Phillip Island also by ferry from the Mornington Peninsula from Stony Point. There are sailings every 3-4 hours from around 8 am to 4 pm, so check ahead on their website for exact times. Sailing to Cowes one way is around 40 minutes.

By bus – V/Line Buses connect Southern Cross to Phillip Island, with an interchange in Koo Wee Rup then heading to Cowes (approx 2.5 hours travel time).

By Train & Bus – Metro service to Dandenong connecting with V/line bus to Cowes (approx 3.20 hours travel time).

The best time to visit Phillip Island

Phillip Island is best enjoyed when the weather is warm, from late spring (November) till March. It’s an island full of wildlife and in summer is when you can see an abundance of it.

Waiting for the Penguins at the Penguins Parade

A thing to keep in mind is that the island can get very busy during school holidays, weekends and event periods (like the international Moto GP). If you are visiting during these times, you will need to book ahead for most things including events, attractions and accommodation, and allow for extra time when travelling to the island.

There is just one road in, and out road out of Phillip Island, and the bridge from San Remo to Cowes can get very congested. Get out early or travel outside of peak times for less crowds.

Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island

Penguin Parade

The top attraction for families and visitors to Phillip Island is without doubt seeing the fairy penguins at the Penguin Parade. The fairy penguin colony in Phillip Island is the biggest in the world! Every night the little penguins come out from the sea and back to their burrows in the Summerland Peninsula.

The Penguin Parade operates every day of the year. The time varies depending on the season, outside of summertime they come to shore earlier (5.30-6.30 pm) compared to the later time of 8 pm onwards in summer. You can check the Penguin arrival calendar HERE. Make sure to book ahead as ticketing is capped and it does book out during school holidays. More info on the website.

Churchill Island Farm

Highland Cows. Image by Michael Drummond from Pixabay

The tiny island just off Phillip Island, Churchill Island is a green oasis to check out some farm animals and see what a historical farmhouse looked like. Little ones will enjoy the demonstrations of milking the cows, sheep shearing and more. Wagon rides are also available during the school holidays for an additional 7 AUD per ticket (not included in the 3-park pass). Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm. More info on their website.

Are you planning to visit Churchill Island as well as the Penguin Parade? To save some money, you can also purchase a 3 Park Entry Pass, which includes entry to the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island & the Koala Conservation Centre. You can check it out on the link below on Klook.

Koala Conservation Reserve

The Koala Conservation Reserve is incredible to see the fluffy koalas in their natural surroundings. You can learn more about these beautiful native animals here and see them when walking through the purpose-built boardwalks. It’s not your typical zoo, more like an open reserve, where each day the rangers estimate how many koalas you can see while exploring the park. Open daily 10 am to 5.30 pm, more info on website.

Amaze N Things

This quirky theme park in Phillip Island has been around for over 30 years! It’s a great day out for families visiting Phillip Island! Our kids (4 & 6 years) had a ball here but it is also suitable for older ages too. It’s unlike any other theme park and is magic & illusion-themed. It also has a large maze, minigolf and sky trail rope course all within the same location.

General entry to Amaze N Things includes access to Puzzle Island, Magic Manor and the Maze, the Minigolf course and Sky Trail are extra. Facilities onsite include a coffee shop, Ice cream and lolly store & gift shop. Outside there is also access to the playground (which is part of the attached Park Lane Holiday Park). Entry is 50% off if staying the Holiday Park. Amaze N Things is open daily 10 am to 5 pm, Prices starting from 42 AUD per adults and 28 AUD for kids, FREE under 3. More info on website.

Grumpys Crazy golf

The big cow at the front doesn’t go unnoticed as you walk or drive past Grumpys Crazy Golf on the main street in Cowes. A perfect place to spend an hour or so in on a rainy or too sunny day, this is a fully undercover 18 hole minigolf course. Open daily 10 am to 5 pm and later in the evening during holiday periods. More info on website.

National Vietnam Veteran War Museum

Tank in a War Museum – Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay

You can’t miss this museum as you drive through in Phillip Island as it has big war planes outside! This incredible museum in Newhaven has a large display of planes, tanks and memorabilia and is a fantastic place to learn about Australian history and the war. Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm. More info on their website.

Pannys Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Panny’s Chocolate Factory is for all the chocolate lovers! It’s a museum, shop and cafe. There are chocolate displays, and a huge fountain, and you can see how the chocolate is made right from the bean harvesting to final packaging. Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm. Fee to enter museum of 22 AUD for Adults, 14 AUD entry fee for kids and FREE under 3. More info on their website.

Go-Karting in a Miniature Moto GP track

For older children and teens seeking some thrills, right near the Moto GP Grand Prix track, you can drive on Go-Karts on a miniature GP Track! Younger kids aged 5-12 yr that are over 100 cm can drive in tandem with a grown up too. Open 10 am to 4 pm daily, More info on the website.

Nearby, you can also visit the History of Motosport Display to learn everything about the world-famous annual Moto GP that usually runs mid-October each year.

Family Friendly Dining in Phillip Island

Check out my other post here on Where to eat in Phillip Island with Kids!

Where to Stay In Phillip Island

Phillip Island Apartments

Modern, spacious apartments located just a few minutes walk away from all the shops and restaurants of Cowes. There are 1,2 and larger 3 bedroom apartments with balconies or patios fully self-contained, and an outdoor pool, heated spa & BBQ area to relax in.

Check Prices and Availability for Phillip Island Apartments HERE

Phillip Island Apartments – Image courtesy of Expedia

Silverwater Resort

Another popular resort with families visiting Phillip Island is actually just before the bridge crossing in San Remo!

Silverwater Resort is a large complex with resort rooms and many spacious 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments. The resort also has a full restaurant, bar and many facilities that the whole family can enjoy during their stay like the indoor and outdoor pool, gym, spa and tennis court.

Check Prices and Availability for Silverwater Resort HERE

Silverwater Resort outdoor pool – Image courtesy of Expedia

Want to read more?

You can read more about Phillip Island in my other post on 5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with Kids and Where to eat in Phillip Island with Kids.

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Australia October 13, 2024

Where to eat with Kids in Phillip Island

Phillip Island is not just your typical small island. Internationally renewed for its huge colony of fairy penguins and amazing wildlife, this little island now prides itself on some great produce, cafes & restaurants too. So if you have an upcoming family holiday planned to Phillip Island, check out this handy guide on Where to eat with Kids in Phillip Island.

_{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!}

Phillip Island: The perfect family holiday destination

The little island just 1.5 hours south of Melbourne has soo many things to do for the whole family. It’s perfect for a weekend, a day trip or even a week holiday. The fairy penguins are the star attraction, drawing local and international visitors from all over the world, to see these tiny 30 cm high adorable creatures make their way into their borrows every evening at the Penguin Parade!

Summerlands beach Phillip Island where the penguins arrive daily — Awaiting the Penguins at Summerlands Beach

There are also several FREE attractions to enjoy with Kids, beautiful beaches, caves as well as an abundance of wildlife all over the island. For a day of fun, Phillip Island also has A Maze n Things, a magic-themed park and maze that the whole family can enjoy.

Where to eat with Kids in Phillip Island

There are so many great places to eat in Phillip Island!

San Remo, just before you cross the bridge is a thriving little town and popular for the daily Pelican Feeding (one of the best FREE attractions to see with Kids when visiting Phillip Island) with some great dining spots too.

Pelicans waiting for their feed in San Remo — Daily Pelican Feeding in San Remo

Once on the Island, the main town is Cowes (just 15 minutes from San Remo), which has a long strip of restaurants down Thompson Avenue. Heading towards Cowes jetty there are lots of dining options like restaurants, pubs, and bakeries, as well as shops and takeaway restaurants.

Other parts of the island have smaller town centres, and you can also find hidden gems out in the countryside of this beautiful island.

I’ve put together this list of some of my favourite places to eat, for the parents to enjoy a great meal too of course!

Cowes

North Pier Hotel: family-friendly pub facing the water with a huge play area with bouncy castles. northpierhotel.com.au
Gday Tiger: Modern take-away barista-made coffee and gourmet toasties. gdaytiger.com.au
Pika Sushi: Takeaway sushi & restaurant with made-to-order Sushi rolls & Japanese classics. Kids menu in cool car-themed plates too! This was one of my favourite places to eat in Phillip Island with Kids! pikasushi.com.au

Isola di Capri: Trendy Italian restaurant for pizza & pasta. Isola Gelateria is located next door for delicious ice cream. isoladicapri.com.au
Pinos Trattoria: A longstanding local of Cowes, this large Family-friendly Italian restaurant is a popular favourite! pinostrattoria.com.au

G' Day Tiger in Cowes — G’Day Tiger, in Cowes

Other parts of the Island

Island Pies, the famous Scallop Pie — Scallop Pie from Island Pies

Island Pies Newhaven: Just over the bridge in Phillip Island. Home of the scallop pie (reccommend!) and other delicious baked goods! facebook.com/p/Island-Pies-Bakery-Newhaven
The Store, Ventnor: Lovely cafe and produce store in peaceful farmland surrounded by grazing cows & shady trees. thestore-phillipisland.com.au
Phillip Island Winery (Lunch only): Winery and wood-fired pizzas, outdoor games and plenty of room for the kids to run around. phillipislandwinery.com.au
Farmhouse Kitchen on Churchill Island: Located across on Churchill Island, with an amazing view of the surrounding green hills and the sea, this farm cafe is a great spot for brunch & lunch. facebook.com/p/Churchill-Island-Farmhouse-Kitchen

Seal Rock view from Nobbies cafe — Views over Seal Rock from the Nobbies Centre

Cafe at the Nobbies Centre, Ventnor: Located at the Nobbies Centre, the large cafe has amazing views over the hill facing Seal Rock. Toasted baguettes, Fish & Chips, baked goods and ice-creams are available for morning tea and lunch.

San Remo

Sanny Side: Tasty toasties & sandwiches and great coffee in this little cafe near the beach on Marine Parade. Get there early for lunch as they sell out! sannyside.au
Co-Op Fish and Chips: These guys have been operating here and running the daily Pelican Feeding for almost 40 years. They serve up some great fish and chips and also have a fresh seafood store. srfco.com.au/fish-and-chips-san-remo-phillip-island
Westernport Hotel San Remo: a popular place with the locals and visitors, this pub in the heart of San Remo dishes up all the pub classics and has also a kids menu and play area. Suitable for younger kids in the early evening as they have live music later on. thewesternport.com.au

Where to Stay In Phillip Island with Kids

Need a place to stay in Phillip Island?

NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park

On a prime location on the waterfront just a 3-minute walk to Cowes main beach, this holiday park has a variety of cabins suitable for all budgets and families as well as BBQ facilities and a kids playground on site.

The new Beachfront Glamping tents are a luxurious addition to the park, with uninterrupted sea views, modern amenities and an outdoor bath too!

Check Prices and Availability for NRMA Phillip Island HERE

Safari tent for family glamping in Cowes — Safari tent at the NRMA Phillip Island – Image courtesy of Expedia

Want to read more?

You can read more about Phillip Island in my other post on 5 Free Things to Do in Phillip Island with Kids and Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island!

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Australia October 9, 2024

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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

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).

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

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.

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!

Woolamai Beach is a wide sandy beach that is stunning and also patrolled. It is more popular with surfers due to the strong waves. FUN FACT: This is one of the favourite beaches where the Hemsworth brothers love to surf!

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 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

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!

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.

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Australia August 20, 2024

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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: Kids menu, plenty of place to run around outside
De Bortoli Locale Restaurant: small playground and kids menu
1309 Restaurant at Balgawnie Estate Winery: kids friendly menu

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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Australia July 22, 2024

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!

_{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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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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Australia July 14, 2024

Top 8 Things to do in Merimbula with Kids

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

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.

Magic mountain roller coaster — 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

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 the Bega 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

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 a popular playground — 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

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.

Top Fun

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 in Merimbula — Barefoot Bowls at the Club Sapphire

Club Sapphire in Merimbula is 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 Restaurant also onsite is a popular dining spot for delicious Asian fusion meals and has kid friendly dining on Wednesdays and Thursday nights.

Seafood platter in Merimbula — 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.

Potooroo Palace

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, one of the top attractions in Merimbula with kids — 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 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.

Check out prices and availability for Coast Resort Merimbula HERE

Midrange/Budget Family friendly accommodation

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.

Check out prices and availability for NRMA Merimbula HERE

NRMA Resort Merimbula – Photo Courtesy of Expedia

Want to read more about Merimbula?

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.

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Australia July 6, 2024

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with Kids – UPDATED 2025

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.

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.

Check Prices and Availability for Peppers Marysville HERE

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

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

Taking snow toys to play is a great way to keep kids entertained

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!

Buy or hire your snow gear in advance

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.

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!

Check Prices and Availability here on Expedia for accommodation near Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

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 Healesville in my other post here.

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Hotel Reviews June 22, 2024

Dorsett Melbourne Review

This newly opened cozy boutique hotel in Melbourne is the perfect place for a staycation in the city to be enjoyed by everyone. Kids will enjoy the FREE arcade games room and amazing pool, and couples will love the cool interior, trendy rooms and bar! This is my Dorsett Melbourne Review.

_{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!}

Dorsett Car — At the Entrance of the Hotel

Things to love about Dorsett Melbourne

State of the art fitness facilities like a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room
Central city location in Melbourne, only an easy walk to restaurants and the main shopping district
FREE Arcade Games in the lobby! Try your luck at winning the Dorsett Teddies on the claw skill tester or have a game of old school pinball

To check out Prices and Availability For Dorsett Melbourne, click HERE

Dorsett Melbourne Entry — Hotel Entrance

Rooms – Dorsett Melbourne Review

Room types at the Dorsett Melbourne

Rooms at the Dorsett Melbourne cater for everyone! There are 316 rooms and they range from Standard Dorsett rooms up to Suites. Rooms with Balcony, Accessible rooms and Pet Friendly Rooms are also available.

Lift Lobby Dorsett Melbourne — Lift Lobby

Dorsett King or Twin Room (27 sqm)
Deluxe King or Twin Room (30 sqm)
Deluxe Room with Balcony (35 sqm)
Accessible Room (42 sqm) – fully accessible with roll in shower
Dog Friendly Room with Balcony (35 sqm) – 1 king bed and up to 1 pet (up to 20 kg)
Executive Rooms (from 29 sqm) and Suites – with access to the Club Lounge

Deluxe Twin room

We stayed in a Deluxe Twin Room, which is set up with 2 double beds.

The room felt pretty spacious, the beds were plush and comfortable! The room is modern with Melbourne artwork. A small table with one chair are in the room too.

Storage wise there is just some hanging space and a small luggage compartment, not much cupboard space, making this hotel more suitable for shorter stays (1-2 nights).

High speed wi-fi and a 50 inch TV with Chromecast is super handy to stream all your favourite shows!

A pod espresso machine is also provided in the room with capsules. A small safe is located under one of the bedside tables and a small bar fridge (empty) is in the room too.

The stylish bathroom is compact, but is fitted with a large walk in rain shower. There is no bathtub in the room, this is only available in some of the larger suites.

Bathroom and shower Dorsett Melbourne — Bathroom & shower

Celebrating special occasions at Dorsett Melbourne

The Hotel was so accommodating when we mentioned that we were staying to celebrate a birthday. When we arrived, the room had an amazing set up with helium balloons, a card signed by all the front desk staff, treats and a hotel teddy. It was a wonderful surprise!

To check out Prices and Availability For Dorsett Melbourne, click HERE

Birthday set up Dorsett Melbourne — Birthday set up

Environmentally conscious initiatives at Dorsett Melbourne

Environmentally conscious with reduced use of paper with a QR compendium — Keycard and QR compendium

The hotel the Compendium is accessible via QR code. There are NO plastic water bottles provided in the room, and no toiletries bottles, only soap dispensers.

Hotel Facilities – Dorsett Melbourne Review

Pool & Fitness centre

One of the highlights of the hotel is the amazing indoor pool and spa. Plenty of pool towels, loungers and chairs are available to chill. During peak times (mid morning or afternoon) it can although get quite busy.

A unisex Steam Room and Sauna are also next to the pool.

On the upper level above the pool there is also a large gymnasium.

FREE Arcade Games Room

A drawcard for us coming to the hotel was the games room. Although not that big, it really was more than enough to keep the kids busy for ages!

Free Arcade Games at Dorsett Melbourne — Games Arcade

Located in the lobby next to the reception desks, the arcade room included a PacMan machine, 2 Pinball machines and a claw game to win the fluffy hotel teddies.

Teddys to be won at the claw skill tester at Dorsett Melbourne — Dorsett Teddies

Parking at Dorsett Melbourne

The hotel has only limited parking so they offer a Valet Service where they will park the car for you overnight at 65 AUD per night. It’s a fantastic service and it was so easy to have the car ready for checkout the next morning!

Reception

Friendly and helpful staff was also a standout at the hotel! Self checkout kiosks are also available for speedy checkout.

Bar & Dining

Jin Bar is the Dorsett Melbourne Bar, located on the ground floor as you enter the hotel to the left. The bar is gorgeous, with velvet interiors and comfy chairs. The hotel serves up cocktails, mocktails as well as food that can be enjoyed there too. Happy Hour also runs with discounted drinks 5-7pm from Sunday to Thursdays.

In Room Dining is also available and can be ordered from the QR code in your room.

View from Dining room balcony — Balcony at Port Bistro

Breakfast Buffet at Dorsett Melbourne

Entry to dining area — Entrance to the Port Bistro

Who does not love a good buffet breakfast?? It was indeed worth having as part of the room for our stay!

Breakfast at the Dorsett Melbourne is served at the Port Bistro on level 2. The dining room is spacious, airy and has a beautiful wrap around balcony that looks over the surrounding buildings.

continental buffett — Continental Buffet

The cold buffet included mixed Danishes, croissants, toast and bread assortment. A variety of yogurts, fruit and condiments, honey, jam and toppings.

The hot buffet included sausages, bacon, scrambled eggs, hash browns, mushrooms, baked beans, as well as mini dim sum, and congee with lots of toppings.

What I loved about the breakfast also is that at the table there is a QR code to scan where you can order via to choose a serve of eggs your way (included in the breakfast price). That included poached, scrambled, sunny side or made-to-order Omelettes with added options like ham, onion, mushrooms etc.

Drinks and Coffee station — Breakfast Drinks and Coffee Machine

For drinks, there is a section with Juice dispensers (3) as well as a modern coffee machine for coffee. Barista made coffee can be ordered from the coffee counter at an at additional charge.

Breakfast can be added prior to check in for 25 AUD per person instead of 39 AUD per person! Free breakfast for kids under 5 years old and at a reduced rate 5 to 12 yrs (15 AUD).

Family Friendly Facilities at Dorsett Melbourne

This hotel ticks all the boxes in term of being a relaxed, family friendly environment. Free arcade games, pool, buffet breakfast and a kid friendly bar are always a winner with families!

During Australian school Holiday Periods, a variety of family friendly activities are run like kids treats buffet, free choc tops and movie screenings. Check with the hotel directly for all the details!

Location of Dorsett Melbourne

Melbourne Southbank Area — Melbourne – Southbank

Located on Little Lonsdale Street, it’s only a 5 min walk from Southern Cross train station and a 15 minutes walk from Melbourne Central and the main shopping district in Melbourne.

BOOK Dorsett Melbourne

Hope you enjoyed reading this Dorsett Melbourne Review.

To check out Prices and Availability For Dorsett Melbourne, click HERE

Still looking for Melbourne Hotels?

Still looking for a hotel? Check out all the hotels in Melbourne on Expedia HERE.

You can also read Check out my other reviews on the Novotel Melbourne on Collins HERE & Melbourne Marriott Docklands HERE.

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