Main Ridge is a rural locality in the Mornington Peninsula, local government area of Mornington Peninsula Shire, Victoria. Main Ridge is 78 km (48 mi) from Melbourne.
Main Ridge has a population of 469 residents, with an median household weekly income of $1,724 (2016 Census)
The median price for houses is $1,996,746. The average house in Main Ridge is rented for $1,265 per week.
The area was originally known as Main Creek.
The district consists of the western spine of Arthurs Seat and the southern hinterlands.
The southern part of the locality, alongside Main Creek, is part of the Mornington Peninsula National Park called Greens Bush, a native bushland area first set aside for conservation in 1974 and supporting the largest population of eastern grey kangaroos on the Mornington Peninsula. Several walking tracks provide access to the area.
Despite its natural beauty, and attractions, Main Ridge has relatively fewer tourists, and retains a sense of quiet charm.
In the east, you can also visit the Main Ridge Nature conversation reserve off Mornington-Flinders Road that serves as a green belt, for the town as it slowly develops. There is also a short walking trail on the west side of Main Ridge called Baldry Crossing Circuit Walk. It is only a few kilometres long, but features streams, ferns and gullies.
Main Ridge is known for fresh produce, meandering gardens, and some stunning properties.
Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm is at 244 Shands Road, and you can visit between November and April to pick fresh strawberries.
The Main Ridge Dairy is at 295 Main Creek Road, and according to their website they are “the only large commercial dairy operating on the Peninsula”. If you are a lover of fine cheese, then this is the place to visit. They are open Thursdays to Sundays.
Drum Drum Farm has beautiful gardens, and offers a range of blueberry-based products like jams and ice cream toppings. They are at 28 Davos Road in Main Ridge.
Red Hill Lavender is at 284 Main Creek Road and is set on a beautiful property with a lavender farm, and some gardens to explore.
Most people don’t realise that Main Ridge is a wine region, and you don’t need to go all the way to Red Hill to enjoy a fine drop with a hearty meal. Morning Sun Vineyard, Green Olive Wines, T’Gallant Cellar Door and Pizzeria are a few of the wineries in Main Ridge.
Coffee Safari
Fresh brewed coffee is a must have for weekends away and Main Ridge coffee is second to none with great coffee haunts around the town. Here are a few to check out when head down to this beautiful end of the world.
Main Ridge Harvest
284 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge
A hidden treasure, tucked away in Main Ridge with great coffee and menu and a beautiful view from their outside decking.
Main Ridge Dairy
295 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge
Great share plates and desserts to go with coffee or try the renowned hot chocolate.
Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm
244 Shands Rd, Main Ridge
A good place to spend with kids for strawberry picking, then enjoy a quick snack or coffee on the outdoor tables. Chocolate fondue, ice cream sundaes and Devonshire Tea served in a cheery dessert café with a great coffee to go with it.
Red Hill Lavender Farm & Distillery
284 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge
Great farm with fantastic view and all food and coffee is so delicious. There are a lot of toys for kids outside and you could do a little picnic with them or enjoy a coffee in the serene setting.
What to do?
With Main Ridge known for fresh produce, meandering gardens, and some stunning properties, there is always something to do there. Checking out the strawberry farm or main ridge dairy is a great day out, or the wonderful lavender gardens and, of course, the plethora of wineries.
Enjoy a fine drop of pinot noir or chardonnay with a hearty meal at wineries including Morning Sun Vineyard, Green Olive Wines, T’Gallant Cellar Door and Pizzeria.
Go for a pleasant stroll along the walking trail on the west side of Main Ridge called Baldry Crossing Circuit Walk, where you will come across streams, ferns and gullies. Or wander into the Mornington Peninsula National Park called Greens Bush, with the largest population of eastern grey kangaroos and several walking tracks.
Photography: Yanni