Fortunate for me... I was one of those lucky ones, taking the opportunity to head to Queenscliff for the four days with my boyfriend and while we were there, have a taste of what the Bellarine Peninsula has to offer.
Our first stop was for lunch on our arrival (as all that driving can work up an appetite). The first meal for our mini getaway was at The Queenscliff Inn, sitting out on their front decking enjoying the sunshine and admiring the beautiful architecture that makes up the Town Centre of Queenscliff. My eyes were drawn to the Chef's Tasting Plate on the special's board and I knew immediately that this was the treat my appetite was calling for! This tasting plate changes as the chef sees fit, but on my particular plate I got to enjoy seared scallops, marinated olives, fresh salmon and a house made relish with sourdough bread (yes, drool worthy). My boyfriend couldn't resist the traditional fish 'n' chips next to the smell of the ocean air and decided on the beer battered fish of the day which was definitely tasty and generously portioned.
After a stroll around the town and exploring the beach, the dinner bell was calling so we made our way to Athelstane. This dining room held a peaceful ambiance where guests can enjoy a few drinks from the wine bar which included not only a great selection of wines, but a cocktail menu also. I sipped on my traditional style Pimm's while waiting for our food to arrive. I definitely recommend their very flavoursome dumplings filled with pork and spring onion, and water chestnut and Asian greens! It was evident that these little treasures were homemade and delicately wrapped to burst with flavour.
And then it was time for breakfast again...
A must-visit breakfast spot in Queenscliff would have to be Gusto Cafe and Herb Garden. Sitting in their adorable herb garden under a tree that was covering us from the soft drops of rain, we couldn't go wrong. Here I ordered my usual poached eggs, which I can never resist, alongside rashers of bacon, home-made relish and fresh basil. My boyfriend had a similar meal however with a touch of grilled mushroom and sizzling chorizo. It was very relaxing eating in the garden and I enjoyed every moment of it, however we couldn't have a prepared ourselves for the dinner that was to come that night...
I have a real soft spot for Barwon Heads. Crossing the bridge to the relaxed beach and effortlessly cool cafes and shops, I always seem to find myself drawn to this little town. We headed there for dinner on one of our nights away and were fortunate enough to find the magnificent At The Heads. Located on the jetty, this place is surrounded with beautiful views of Barwon Heads beach that really makes you feel like you're floating on the water. After a quick glance at the menu, there was no chance that we were going to overlook the Seafood Platter for Two. When we were equipped with all our weapons of destruction, we knew there was a great food adventure ahead...
This would have to be the largest seafood platter I have ever seen and everything on it was delicious! Even though there were so many great components to this meal, I would have to say that the keiser and chardonnay mussels would have to have been a favourite! And yes, we did finish it all... with a struggle, but it was too good to leave anything behind. And wait.. there is actually more! This platter also comes with fruit and sorbet for dessert. If you do somehow find any room to fit it in, it is a great way to finish off and leave your pallet feeling refreshed.
Our last stop for our trip was brunch on the way home and again we found ourselves taking a detour to Barwon Heads. We stopped at Annie's Provedore & Produce Store and may I just say that if you are ever in the town of Barwon Heads - this is a must visit! This adorable store sells all things from deli items, to cakes, to wine and they even serve you brunch in store! We completely indulged here, ordering zucchini and feta fritters with a poached egg on one plate, goat's cheese, sour dough and poached eggs on another both with a side of their house relish, and then just to top it off a croissant accompanied by a selection of spreads supplied on each table including a mouthwatering raspberry jam!
This was certainly the perfect way to finish off a trip filled with a variety of delicious tastes!
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