A Winter Adventure at Seawinds Gardens, Arthurs Seat

Sometimes we forget how many wonderful places there are to explore right here on the Mornington Peninsula.

Seawinds Gardens at Arthurs Seat is one of those local spots that is easy to overlook, even though it offers beautiful views, peaceful walking tracks, picnic areas and plenty of space to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.

Set near the summit of Arthurs Seat, the gardens cover approximately 34 hectares and sit around 305 metres above sea level. From the lookouts, you can enjoy sweeping views across Port Phillip Bay and towards the Mornington and Bellarine peninsulas.

Take a relaxed walk through the gardens

Seawinds is a lovely place for an easy stroll without needing to tackle a long or difficult hike.

The gardens combine native bushland with established exotic and formal garden areas, giving each section a slightly different feel. There are wide open lawns, shaded paths, mature trees and quieter corners where you can stop and enjoy the scenery.

You can keep the visit simple with a gentle walk through the garden areas or follow one of the surrounding tracks through the stringybark woodland. The Seawinds to Seamist Drive walk is sheltered from much of the sun and wind and offers attractive views along the way.

Winter is particularly pleasant for walking because the air is crisp and the tracks are often quieter than they are during the warmer months.

Look for the William Ricketts sculptures

One of the most interesting features of Seawinds Gardens is the collection of William Ricketts sculptures.

The sculptures are positioned throughout the garden and blend into the natural surroundings, so it can feel a little like a treasure hunt as you explore.

They add another layer of interest to the walk and make Seawinds more than simply a garden or lookout.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife

Seawinds is also a good place to spot native birds and animals.

Kangaroos are regularly seen around the open areas, particularly during quieter times of the day. You may also come across kookaburras, parrots, ducks and other local birdlife.

As always, it is best to admire wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding the animals.

Pack a picnic

There are picnic areas, electric barbecues, public toilets and parking available, making Seawinds an easy place to spend a few hours rather than simply stopping for a quick look.

Bring a thermos, pack something warm to eat and choose a sheltered spot among the trees. On a clear winter day, it is a lovely place to enjoy lunch without travelling far from home.

Families can also make use of the nature-inspired playscape near the main garden area. Parks Victoria describes it as an interactive natural play space set among the gum trees.

Enjoy the views

The lookouts are one of the highlights of any visit.

On a clear day, the view stretches across the bay and surrounding coastline. The changing winter light can make the scenery especially impressive, and there are plenty of opportunities for photographs.

You can also combine your visit with the Arthurs Seat summit area or the Arthurs Seat Eagle, which is only a short distance away.

Planning your visit

Seawinds Gardens is located at 21 Purves Road, Arthurs Seat, and entry is free. During winter, Parks Victoria advises that the gates are generally open from 6am until 6pm.

Wear comfortable shoes, take a warm jacket and check the weather before leaving. Some paths may become damp or slippery after rain, so allow yourself plenty of time and take care underfoot.

A local outing worth rediscovering

You do not always need a full itinerary or a long drive to enjoy a memorable day out.

A walk through Seawinds Gardens, a picnic under the trees and a few minutes taking in the views can be enough to make an ordinary winter day feel like a proper local adventure.

It is another reminder of how fortunate we are to live and work on the Mornington Peninsula.

If you are looking for more things to do on the Mornington Peninsula, be sure to check out our recent blogs.... Let us know if there are any other topics you would like us to cover.

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