Your stay in Queenscliff

A walk around Queenscliff.

Enjoy walking the streets of this historic town with its grand public houses, it’s quaint Victorian cottages, the lighthouse, and the fort.

Built to protect Melbourne from a potential Russian invasion in the late 1800’s in the post Crimea War era, it could be argued that the fort has achieved the goal of its’ creators, as Melbourne is yet to be invaded by hostile forces.

A short walk east of Athelstane takes you to the shores of Port Phillip Bay’s tranquil beaches. The pier is an impressive structure that serviced ferries from Portsea and Melbourne in a bygone era. A train ran up the pier primarily for carrying goods from the ferry to Geelong and beyond. The train lines are still evident extending out the 300 meter long pier. Near the end of the pier is a waiting shed and a lifeboat shed. The last remaining lifeboat is housed nearby in the Queenscliff Maritime Museum.

Heading north from the pier, you will come to the harbour area. Home to fishing and leisure craft, but also home to the pilot vessels. These purpose built boats ferry the pilots to incoming ships (and pick up pilots off departing ships). The Rip at the head of Port Phillip Bay is treacherous and requires careful navigation, particularly in inclement weather, also a challenging time for the transfer of pilots onto ships.

There are various shops, cafes and restaurants in this harbour area. It’s a great place to spend some time.

Heading inland from the boat harbour, you will come to the historic Queenscliff Station with its operating steam trains and tourist line. The Bellarine Railway offers 100 year old locomotives pulling restored carriages in a 45 minute round trip along the shores of Swan Bay.

Back at Athelstane Hotel, enjoy afternoon tea of beautiful homemade cake, coffee or a real pot of tea in our garden, courtyard, dining room or on our balcony.

We hope you enjoy your stay and would love to hear your experience of your time in Queenscliff and Athelstane Hotel.