Phillip Island’s fresh air and outdoor lifestyle has pleasurable side effects. Like inducing a ravenous appetite, an appreciation of fine wine and an excuse to sleep in or laze around. There’s nothing better than quality places to eat, drink and unwind when you’ve earned the lot.

Scattered about the island are restaurants and cafes galore. They’re often in the most idyllic and unlikely spots: beside farmland with grazing Highland cattle, on balconies overlooking Western Port, amid the bustle of main streets and laid out along the foreshore of seaside villages.

The island’s cool climate, rich volcanic soil and moderating influence of the sea coalesce into excellent wine producing country, as well as beautiful places to imbibe at a cellar door. The quality of wine is clear from the consistently good performances of both of the Island's wineries, Phillip Island Wines and Purple Hen Wines, at wine shows around Australia. Both offer full cellar door facilities (including light food platters) in great locations. Off the Island, Southern Gippsland is developing a strong reputation for the production of high quality, cool-climate wines. Follow the grape signs marking out the Southern Gippsland Wine Trail to indulge in the area’s specialties.