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The Dunes GolfLinks

Why the Mornington Peninsula is the Perfect Place for Your Next Golf Trip


A golf trip is a coveted event. For lovers of the game, there’s nothing like gathering up the gang and hacking around a new course in a distant land. As an addict of the sport, I’ve attended several getaways across the country and have become something of a connesiuer in the field. Let me start off by stating, that not all golf trips are created equal – and it has nothing to do with shooting a low score. The on-course action obviously sets the foundation for the holiday, but there are numerous other elements like food, drink and accommodation that factor into the ‘epic weekend’ equation. While the sport itself takes up the majority of your time, its the little things in between that elevate the experience. Enter, Mornington Peninsula.

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The Dunes Golf Links
Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula has to be one of the most well-rounded golf destinations in Australia. While it may be home to some of the more exclusive private clubs in the country, its public offering is second to none, providing the perfect setting for your next trip. In particular, The Dunes Golf Links has stood out as a major attraction for golfers since its opening in 1995. Nestled in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, Australia’s premier public access golf course is surrounded by a rich list of breweries, bars, restaurants and retreats that pair perfectly with 18 holes. Furthermore, The Dunes has recently launched new play and stay options, offering a number of suites and rooms with views all the way to Cape Schanck.

The course features 27 golf holes in the rolling coastal countryside. There are two golf courses to choose from: the championship 18 hole Dunes course and the 9-hole Cups ‘holiday course. Fully capturing the essence of links-style golf, I was blown away by the attention to detail of the designers as well as the course maintenance standards, matched only by the very best private clubs. For beginners or a casual around, The Cups is one of the better 9-hole courses you can play. Pure fun, its wide fairways, unintimidating bunkers and lack of water allow players to hone in on their skills. Even if you’re a scratch golfer, I’d highly recommend teeing it up to experience that part of the property.

The championship course has been ranked among the top 20 courses in Australia for the past 15 years and is consistently awarded the No.1 public access course in Victoria. It mixes a number of challenging and scoreable holes, achieving the difficult objective of testing lower markers without overwhelming higher handicappers. The scenery has to be seen to be believed; I often found myself getting lost in the rolling and rugged landscape. And the good news is, you can now stay within the picturesque scenery.

The Dunes Golf Links
Image: The Dunes

The Links Lodge accommodation project has been a 25-year dream that finally came to life in 2021. Customers can choose between two-bedroom ensuites or king-size rooms with an ensuite. All of the accommodation has an earthy design and a calming colour scheme that blends into the natural surroundings. Inside, the two-bedroom suits come with a kitchenette, private balcony, large living area, and floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the sweeping views. All the suites and king rooms come equipped with modern essentials such as Smart TVs and 5G Wifi.

When you aren’t hunting pins, there are a number of breweries, restaurants and venues all within the region to relax and unwind. The best post-round watering hole is St Andrews Beach Brewery, perfect for a few beers and a feed as the sun goes down. More of a pub than a brewery, it caters to large groups and is a great spot to watch the footy. Once the urge for something stronger kicks in, I’d highly recommend a tasting at JimmyRum distillery. Founder, James McPherson, is an absolute showman and will take you on a captivating journey through his establishment.  Oh, and you’ll taste some of the most delicious and unique cocktails in the process. For the fancy folk, Doot Doot Doot is a fine dining experience that can’t be missed. Chef Simon Tarlington merges contemporary with country utilising his trademark farm-to-table techniques that find flavour in the unexpected. From the decor to the desert, the restaurant is a one-of-a-kind experience that would perfectly host any special occasion.

To see everything that’s on offer in the Mornington Peninsula, head over to the Visit Victoria website. 

Check it out

Doot Doot Doot
Image: Doot Doot Doot
Jimmy Rum
Image: Jimmy Rum
St Andrews Beach Brewery
Image: St Andrews Beach Brewery

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