15-05-2025
How to stretch your stay in Geelong and the Bellarine — and why you'd want to
The cooler weather may have arrived at Portarlington, but the upcoming National Celtic Folk Festival is sure to heat things up. Over the June long weekend, the charming seaside town will come alive with music, markets, session bars and warming open fires in celebration of all things Celtic. The annual event brings an energy like no other — and it's just one of many reasons to visit Geelong and the Bellarine this winter.
For the epicureans, the Tastes of Greater Geelong festival will showcase the very best of the region's hospitality scene. The month-long event, which runs from June 20 to July 20, will see venues throughout Greater Geelong excite your tastebuds with special menus, bespoke tasting trails and pop-up restaurants.
Come August 30, art enthusiasts will want to make their way to the esteemed Geelong Gallery, which will play host to the Archibald Prize 2025 exhibition until November 9.
If music by the sea is more your vibe, head a little further south to the Queenscliff Music Festival. Taking place over three days from November 28 to November 30, this beloved coastal event will transform the Bellarine into a thriving hub of live gigs, local food and family friendly fun.
Whether you're in town for the culture or the coast, one thing's for sure — you won't want to simply pass through. From the buzzing cityscapes to the unforgettable scenery, Geelong and the Bellarine offer plenty of ways to turn your day trip into a full-blown escape. Here's how.
Flavours worth travelling for
An easy hour's drive southwest from Melbourne, Geelong and the Bellarine are home to some of the best dining experiences in the country. You'll need more than a day to sample the goods, but you can make a decent start in Little Malop Street thanks to its treasure trove of laidback cafes, bustling bars and top-notch brunch spots.
Get your caffeine fix from Cartel Coffee Roasters, stock up on fresh pastries and wood-fired sourdough at Paddock Bakery, then indulge in some pre-dinner tipples on the leafy rooftop at The Arborist.
