The Peninsula Lighthouse

Built back in 1859, the Cape Schanck Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Victoria. And is one of few lighthouses that still operates as it did during the 1800s. Built from distressed limestone and sandstone, the lighthouse provides spectacular views of the Southern Peninsula cost as well as the Bass Strait.

The Cape Schanck Lighthouse forms part of a triangle of Bass Strait lights which also includes Cape Otway and Cape Wickham Lighthouses. It was also Australias first lighthouse tower with stone steps that still has an uses its original lense that still shines the full distance of 48km. The lighthouse stands 21m high and the light's focal plane is situated 100 metres above sea level.

The Cape Schanck Lighthouse reserve offers several heritage buildings including the lighthouse and a museum. A guided tour of the lighthouse only takes 20 minutes, learning about the maritime history and stories of the lightkeepers and their families, as well as events from what was once was a very remote location. The museum houses a large range of artefacts and information that illustrates the maritime navigation history of the site and its role in guiding ships into Port Phillip Bay.

Take a long walk along the Bushrangers Bay nature walk to take in some of the best coastal scenery. With sections of the walk shaded with Banksia groves, providing some shelter from the elements for a quick break. Look out for local birds and the grassy clearings where kangaroos are often spotted. Observe local marine life in the rock pools or catch a glimpse of some whales during migration season.

Cape Schanck is the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula, where the Bass Strait and Western Port meet. The land has been protected since the 1800s and it became a national park in 1988.