Warm-up Winter Weekend – Geelong
Sneak away for a stress-free weekend in the regional capital that truly has it all. Indulge all the senses, as you shop, sip and sightsee around Geelong.
REST at the popular Novotel hotel situated in the heart of G Waterfront area and only a short walk once you arrive from your vessel. Featuring newly refurbished rooms (including some with water views), private balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi, cosy in-house breakfast and dining and 24-hour reception. Importantly, you’ll have the most convenient base for exploring; once checked-in, be ready to begin your weekend adventure – and the best thing is Port Phillip Ferries passengers receive 15% discount on accommodation. CLICK HERE
SIP amazing coffee and warm-up at the Geelong Brew Bar, a trendy downtown roaster where you are guaranteed a cup of the best. Owners Cartel Roasters’ philosophy is about providing true speciality coffee of the highest quality through ethical and sustainable buying practices. There is a small café on-site where with an array of premium coffee and equipment to purchase, as well as teas, wine and selected specialities. Open 7 days a week. CLICK HERE
SEE and learn about the fascinating past featuring Geelong at the National Wool Museum. This heritage collection contains significant documents relating to the people involved in all aspects of the wool industry since colonisation, including records documenting the lives of those in the area. And there’s always something new to keep people coming back! Check out What’s On at the website for the variety of Exhibitions and Interactive activities that complement the collection. On display now is On the Land: Our Story Retold and How Cities Work by the Sydney Living Museum. The Museum is open 10-3pm 7 days a week. CLICK HERE
EAT and relax over lunch in the ‘Great Hall’ – smack-bang in the middle of the brewery village of the renowned Little Creatures. You’ll be surrounded by tanks and brewers (and that strong aroma of beers mashing in). This Geelong institution confesses to being ‘a bit like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory… but for beer”. It’s also renown for an enchanting Winter Wonderland transformation in July, as well as speciality beer launches and mystery markets. Bookings are essential. CLICK HERE
EXPLORE your cultural side at the grand Geelong Gallery established in 1896. Considered one of Australia’s leading regional art galleries, its collection spans 6,000 works of significance. The Gallery is also home to a number of iconic Australian paintings including Eugène von Guérard’s View of Geelong (1856) and Frederick McCubbin’s A bush burial (1890). Open 10am-5pm daily and entry is free. For the latest exhibitions visit CLICK HERE
