Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Why you should visit Australia's Phillip Island

Unique wildlife 
Phillip Island is home to some of Australia’s most unique and special wildlife. In fact, we have the largest colonies of Little Penguins and Australian Fur Seals in the whole of Australia right here on the island. Seal Rocks is home to approximately 35,000 fur seals and can be seen through the telescopes at the Nobbies Visitor Centre, or up close on a fantastic EcoBoat tour.

The Penguin Parade has many different viewing options to see the world’s smallest penguin, including the new Penguins Plus and Underground experiences which offer the closest possible viewing of penguins in Australia. You can see koalas up close from the elevated boardwalks at the Koala Conservation Centre, and you may even see some wallabies and echidna there as well.

Pristine natural environment
It's only 90 minutes from Melbourne, yet Phillip Island feels like a world away. Beautiful blue skies and crisp clean air, pristine sandy beaches and spectacular rugged cliffs, native woodlands and life-giving wetlands all come together to make up this natural escape from city life.

You can explore many of Phillip Island’s hidden secrets and natural environments on one of the many easy walking trails. A quick ten minute stroll will take you over the dunes to a spectacular sandy beach and the beautiful rock formations of Forrest Caves. For those wanting a little longer in this pristine natural environment, perhaps a walk to the Cape Woolamai Beacon which offers unforgettable views of the whole island. These and many other unspoiled locations are all waiting to be explored.

Phillip Island and the surrounding regions also provides some of the most fertile land in Victoria and as a result, many gourmet producers have established their operations here, giving visitors the opportunity to sample some epicurean delights and unique experiences.

Gourmet local produce 
On the way to Phillip Island, why not stop in at Bassine Specialty Cheeses for some handmade artisan farmhouse cheeses including feta, brie, haloumi and ricotta, with all milk sourced from their own herd of 180 Holstein cows.

Dining Out
The Cape Kitchen waterfront restaurant is one of the island’s newest eateries, and offers guests an indulgent menu, sourced from the bountiful harvest of local fresh produce. The location provides sensational views over the scenic and untamed south coast.



Wineries
The island’s climate is perfect for cool climate wines, so the Purple Hen Vineyard and Phillip Island Winery each grow a variety of grapes suitable to the region. The Purple Hen’s cellar door is open every day of the year while the Phillip Island Winery opens its doors to the public during the warmer months.

Breweries
Taking its name from the colour of beer, Rusty Water Brewery and Bar is home to a selection of small batch, hand-crafted ales like Koala Pale Ale, Chicory Stout and Shipwreck IPA. There is no better place to be on a cool winter’s day than sitting in front of the log fire with a tasting paddle of their fine creations.    


Uniquely Australian food
Imagine fishing for rainbow trout at a picturesque tree-lined lake, and then having the chef transform your catch into a magnificent meal. At Rhyll Trout and Bush Tucker Farm you can catch your own lunch and wander the 1.2km Bush Tucker trail, showcasing 27 different species of native foods.   

Farm experiences
Bimbadeen is a 340 acre farm in the heart of Phillip Island offering experiences like farm tours and paddock to plate barbecues. You can even enjoy a farm retreat and stay in their secluded eco-friendly, self-contained accommodation with peaceful rural views and participate in as much or as little of farm life as you would like.

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