Red Hill is a 86 kilometre journey south from Melbourne, located in the hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula, between the coastal towns of Dromana and Balnarring. It has a population of approximately 1,009 with a landscape consisting of scenic hills and native forests.
The name Red Hill derives from the rich, red clay that has made the area predominantly agricultural from its first European settlement in the mid-nineteenth century.
Many Red Hill streets are named after pioneers: Sheehan, McIlroy, Stanley, Bayne, Arkwell, Eaton, Nash, Perry (sic) and Callanan.
The Red Hill Post Office opened on the 1st of August 1871.
A railway operated in Red Hill between 1921 and 1959 and was known as the Red Hill railway line.
Since the 1970s, wineries have been established around Red Hill to take advantage of the microclimates that suits cool climate grapes, and especially pinot noir.
Herbert Robinson (1876–1919), later mayor of Albany, Western Australia, and member of the Parliament of Western Australia was a notable resident of Red Hill.
Red Hill is a major centre on the Mornington Peninsula for entertainment events, including the peninsula’s premier art show – Art Red Hill.
Strawberries, cherries and apples are grown and available seasonally at the farm door.
Every year thousands of people attend the Red Hill Show to enjoy a great family day and be part of this wonderful community celebration. Run by a team of volunteers, this is one of the largest community events on the Mornington Peninsula.
A monthly community market is held from September through May. Patrons can still watch old-time games like Pétanque being played and smell the roasting of chestnuts. Other traditional Australian foods such as meat pies and jam donuts are also sold.
Originally an apple orchard farming region, in recent decades Red Hill has become world renowned for its quality and variety of wines, and cellar doors. There are now more than 60 wineries, 50 cellar doors and 200 vineyards.
The commercial centre of Red Hill is spread along four distinct spots on Arthurs Seat Road, Flinders Road and Shoreham Road, featuring a variety of eateries and services. Tucked away along roads and shady laneways around Red Hill, visitors will also find several galleries and cafes.
Coffee Safari
Freshly brewed coffee is a must-have for weekends away and the Mornington Peninsula’s coffee haunts are second to none. Here are just a few to check out when you head down to this beautiful part of the world.
Nordie Cafe
1008 Mornington-Flinders Road
Elegant simplicity of Scandinavian styling and dining with highly regarded Allpress Coffee as the backbone of breakfast. Offering something for everyone from house made muffins to the Red Hill Rösti Benedict.
Food on the Hill
10/159 Shoreham Road
Great spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a great cup of coffee with friendly and helpful staff. Relaxed casual vibe and excellent choice of Greek inspired food.
Cafe at the Epicurean
165 Shoreham Road
Great coffee made on the premises, great service and awesome bakery treats in the front part of the building.
What to do
Whether it’s driving through the scenic hills and native bushland, enjoying a relaxing stay at a b&b, or partaking in the fine wines and art,
Red Hill is the epitome of a relaxed getaway.
Scattered throughout the area is a proliferation of vineyards, orchards and berry farms. Many of the vineyards are boutique wineries, with picturesque venues for celebrations which also offer visitors the opportunity to experience fine dining, wine tasting and the purchase of local produce from the region.
Further delights await when coming to the commercial centre of Red Hill with a variety of eateries, galleries and shady laneways with hidden delightful day spas and art exhibitions.
If nature is your thing then lose yourself in one of the dozens of walking trails, bike tracks or horse riding adventures.
Photos: Yanni
Peninsula Essence – February 2025