Drysdale and Clifton Springs offer the best of both worlds.
Drysdale is a rural town that offers fresh local produce, such as cheese, olives and wine. Clifton Springs enjoys a prime location on Corio Bay with sweeping views and terrific fishing.
With a combined population of more than 12,000 the twin towns is one of the main hubs of the Bellarine Peninsula.
For the energetic, the Bellarine Rail Trail passes through Drysdale. This 32km trail is a haven for runners, walkers and wildlife spotters.
Train buffs can catch the Bellarine Railway from Drysdale station. The Heritage Steam Train winds its way between Queenscliff and Drysdale, giving travellers epic views of Swan Bay, rolling vineyards and tranquil farmlands.
Lake Lorne is a birdwatcher’s dream. It is common to see black swans, egrets, spoonbills and purple swamp hens. The rare freckled duck, blue-billed duck and Lathams snipe can also be seen along with birds of prey such as the swamp harrier.
The all-new Q Train also departs Drysdale, offering punters a dining experience like no other. Only fresh local produce is used onboard this classic restaurant train from the sumptuous food right down to the wines, beers and ciders.
Entertain the kids with a day out at Tuckerberry Hill Blueberry Farm. You can pick your own delicious blueberries and then enjoy some scones with homemade blueberry jam.
Golfers can pack the clubs in the car and head to two quality courses. Clifton Springs Golf Club has a rich history spanning more than a century while Curlewis Golf Club is a new course that is ranked in the top 50 of public courses in the country.
Located in Drysdale’s town centre, the Old Court House on High Street is home to the Bellarine Historical Society and Museum which is open every Sunday from January to April and the first Sunday of the month for the rest of the year.
The Drysdale Market is held on the third Sunday of the month between September and April on the local recreation reserve and is the best place to sample some of the region’s beautiful fresh produce and buy beautiful locally made craft items.
Lovers of fine wine won’t leave disappointed either. Some of the peninsula’s best wineries can be found between Drysdale and Portarlington – Bellarine Estate, Terindah Estate and Jack Rabbit are located a short distance away.
The Potato Shed regularly stages theatre productions and performances.
TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Drysdale Goat Cheese (open Sundays) – yummy.
Clifton Springs beach – no waves and calm seas.
Bellarine Rail Trail – get active.
Bellarine Railway – take a trip down history lane.
Q Train – local food and wine on tracks.
TOP TIP
Check the timetable for the Bellarine Railway at bellarinerailway.com.au
DID YOU KNOW?
Drysdale was named after Anne Drysdale whose estate Coriyule still sits above the township.
