A perfect destination for a day, a week, a month or full-time. It’s one that is unlike many others and keeps bringing travellers back time and time again, as well as keeping locals firmly planted and it’s the seaside town of Queenscliff.
So however long your leisure time spans, this really is a treasure trove to jump into and discover with its many delights based on a strong history which continues to resonate around every corner.
Officially named in 1853 Queenscliff this small fishing village, became a crucial cargo port, as well as becoming an important trading location. Due to this, a tramway was installed around 1860, and the pier extended to hold bigger vessels. Also, the gold rush days arrived and with that, a large number of immigrants seeking their fortunes and staking their claims chose Queenscliff to be home and development of the town quickly followed.
Fast forward and this beautiful town still proudly displays many of the original historical homes and shops, with a variety of hotels and larger style businesses enveloped in the stunning architecture of bygone days.
A key feature of Queenscliff both historically and today is Fort Queenscliff. So be sure to pay a visit and take a step through history back to 1860, where a wonderful example of one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Australia will take you back and walk you through this pertinent part of Australia’s military history. For further details: www.fortqueenscliff.com.au.
Not far away and down the main street of Hesse St, you will find a quant gallery brimming with a wide variety of artworks, sculptures, and décor. Housed in an historical shopfront, Seaview Gallery consistently presents an ever-changing display of artworks. Every month a new exhibition awaits, ready to showcase an overload of artistic design, textures, and colours by a plethora of both local and national artists. It’s a definite must visit when in Queenscliff.
Perhaps a sail on the high seas on Searoad Ferries is more your preference as Queenscliff is the gateway to reaching the Mornington Peninsula by sea and enjoying some stunning views, potential dolphin sightings and A1 onboard coffee. But be sure to head back, as there is so much more to explore…
Housed within the incredible architectural structure that greets those arriving and leaving onboard Searoad Ferries, is the latest addition to the Port of Queenscliff. Within its walls you will find TARRA, a gastronomic delight which is definitely one to discover, and will no doubt, delight. With the recent appointment of a new Executive Chef: Mike Jaques who comes with a wide variety of highly noteworthy culinary experience in some of the finest venues both locally and beyond, this is a stand out destination of all thing’s fine food. Why not introduce yourself to their offerings with a sample of their current ‘Breakfast by the bay’ menu, and indulge in a mix of taste sensations to kick off your day, whilst admiring the stunning sea views.
To pay homage to the historical feel of this seaside town is Vintage and Collectables On Hesse and definitely don’t pass through town without a visit here first.
Greeting you is a wonderful mix of collectables and memorabilia, jewellery, décor, ceramics, and everything in between, from the past to the present. Put some time aside as there is so much to see and be tempted by. Add to that a wonderful dose of customer service offered to everyone that passes through to discover this unique and eclectic shopping experience. You’ll find at 66 Hesse Street.
We hope you enjoy our recommendations when next visiting this very special seaside town destination. However please note, this is just some of many amazing businesses, small and large, unique and contemporary that will make your visit here like no other and definitely one that you will do again.
