Just under 3 hours from Melbourne at the end of a meandering coast road in East Gippsland, lies the sleepy hamlet of Port Albert. This tiny secluded fishing village is the perfect escape for a weekend of serenity. With fresh sea air, local walking tracks, sunsets over the bay and cosy accommodation you will find it easy to unwind here read on for things to see and do during your visit.
Things to see and do in Port Albert
Gippsland Regional Port Albert Maritime Museum
Bursting with information this museum (opened in 1976) is housed in the old Bank of Victoria building. There is a selection of themed rooms plus an outdoor space with large exhibits including boats, anchors and lighthouse beacons. The shipwreck history is fascinating and many relics from the wrecks are on display. In the first 57 years of Port Albert being named there were 29 shipwrecks plus numerous vessels that ran aground that were salvaged and re-floated.
Displays in the museum offer plenty of information to learn all about the area so allocate an hour or so for your visit. The collection of artefacts, objects and memorabilia on display is extensive too. A visit to the museum is great value, admission charges are minimal with a price for adults, concession and children.
Port Albert Maritime Museum, 78 Tarraville Road, Port Albert
Castim by the Jetty Boat Hire and Kiosk
As the name implies the kiosk is situated right on the jetty and is a welcoming place to chat about all things boating, weather and a top spot enjoy some home-made fare. The menu features gummy (shark) burgers, roast lamb rolls and fresh scones plus coffee and milkshakes. Here you can hire a kayak, canoe or paddle boat for half or a full day. You can also grab bait here for fishing and get advice on the what’s biting and where. Order a delicious grazing box to take on your high seas adventure complete with crackers, cheese, cold meats, dips, fruit, and nuts. The boxes must be booked in advance.
Castim by the Jetty, Slip Jetty Wharf Street, Port Albert
Serenity for the Soul Massage
Completely immerse yourself in relaxation mode with a pampering massage with Melissa, owner of Serenity for the Soul. Visit the cosy little studio alternatively you can arrange to have your massage in your accommodation. The treatment is highly professional and indulgent and allows you de-stress in complete comfort. Massages are available by appointment only so contact Melissa to secure a booking.
Serenity for the Soul, 15 Spring Street, Port Albert
Tom’s Cap Vineyard
On the way to of from Port Albert, follow the winding rides to discover the discreetly located Tom’s Cap Vineyard. Nestled among native bush land in Willung South the vineyard is an oasis of manicured gardens and sounded by grape vines. The restaurant is a hidden gem with a menu that showcases local produce and matches local wines to perfection.
There is also accommodation on site so you can indulge a little in the wide selection of local wines available and safely walk to your accommodation.
Toms Cap Vineyard, 322 Lays Road, Willung South
Where to stay in Port Albert
Port Albert Waterview Retreat is a fully self-contained, 3-bedroom house situated on the waterfront. Attentive hosts Charla and Chris have kitted out the home with everything to ensure an enjoyable stay from free wi-fi to board games, complimentary tea and coffee, quality toiletries and plenty of interesting reading material. The central bathroom has a beautiful deep bath ideal for a relaxing bubble bath.
Six people can be comfortably accommodated in two double rooms and a twin room. The retreat is fitted with air conditioning and heating plus a wood heater perfect for those cosy winter escapes. The back patio features a BBQ and outdoor seating whilst the front patio deck chairs look out over the bay ideal for relaxing and taking in the sunset. Guests can park on site with space for multiple vehicles. The house is situated alongside the Christopher Robin Walking trail making it easy to walk directly into the heart of village.
Port Albert Waterview Retreat, 20 Wellington Street, Port Albert
Getting to Port Albert
Port Albert is located 2 ½ hours, approximately 235km from Melbourne’s CBD. If travelling from northern Victoria, head towards Melbourne and pick up the Princes Highway heading south east. The nearest V/Line coach service stops at Yarram departing from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station with 3 coach services daily however pick up can be pre-arranged with Butterfly Passenger Services to take guests to Port Albert.
1 comment
Port Albert looks fabulous – I can’t wait to do everything here! I love the idea of walking from your retreat into the village! Fabulous post, Danielle and I love your new look website.