A Serene Stay at Gathering Shores, Mornington Peninsula
With a city stopover at the divine Lola Melbourne apartment
Our contributors Chris and Terrie recently escaped to the Mornington Peninsula for a peaceful overnight stay at Gathering Shores, a beautifully styled holiday house nestled at the base of Arthurs Seat in Dromana. With its lush green surrounds, laid-back coastal charm, and thoughtful design, this place struck a chord from the moment they stepped through the front door.
Hosts, Patricia and Irvine, clearly have a knack for creating welcoming, comfortable spaces that feel a little bit special.
Related reading: Lola Melbourne: A City Escape with True Elegance & Charm
A Beachside Sanctuary with Heart and Soul
Gathering Shores is one of those rare places that manages to feel both relaxed and refined. As Terrie described it:
“As soon as we opened the front door we were welcomed with a feeling of peace and delight. This is a very comfortable, spotless, family holiday house… The bed was so comfortable and all the detail to décor and extra touches really make guests feel cared for.”
– Terrie
The home is nestled under the green-covered cloak of Arthurs Seat, just a few minutes from the beach and central Dromana. It’s quiet and leafy, with views of the treetops and the sounds of birdsong in the background—an ideal location for recharging your batteries, whether it’s a romantic retreat, girls’ weekend, or family getaway.
What You’ll Find Inside
Gathering Shores comfortably sleeps up to six guests with three thoughtfully furnished bedrooms, two bathrooms (including an ensuite), and a jaw-dropping outdoor bath tucked privately behind the house.
The home is light-filled and airy, with open plan kitchen, living, and dining areas that open onto a large alfresco deck. There’s a cosy reading nook, two TVs, fast Wifi, and both heating and air conditioning to keep things comfortable in any season.
“The patio area just begs you to sit and relax, maybe read or flick through a magazine, which we did with a glass of wine. Just beautiful,”
– Terrie
There’s also an outdoor fireplace, shower, Weber BBQ, and plenty of space to gather with friends or unwind in solitude. Everything is clean, modern, and welcoming. The showers come equipped with rubber mats for extra safety, and while there are a few steps and a slightly steep driveway, access from the garage makes things easier for those who prefer fewer obstacles.
A Location That Has It All
The Mornington Peninsula is full of charm, and Gathering Shores puts you right in the middle of it all. From lazy afternoons on pristine beaches to long winery lunches and hinterland drives, the options are endless.
In the warmer months, you can swim, fish for flatties, explore walking trails or soak up the sun with a book and a glass of something cold. As the weather cools, gather around the firepit, venture into the hinterland for mushroom foraging, or curl up with a cuppa and enjoy the peace and quiet.
The house is only a short drive from the Peninsula’s best-known wineries, farm gates, restaurants, and coastal walks. And if you’d rather stay in? The full kitchen, comfortable lounge and peaceful outdoor setting make staying put just as enjoyable.
Perfect for Couples, Families or Friends
With flexible sleeping arrangements, ample shared space, and loads of thoughtful touches, Gathering Shores is suitable for all kinds of getaways. It’s a particularly lovely option for those looking to travel with adult children or grandchildren in tow. And with fast Wifi and multiple workspaces, it could even suit a working holiday.
Chris and Terrie said they’d love to come back in the warmer months with family in tow—and we don’t blame them. Whether it’s a quiet midweek break or a longer stay, Gathering Shores delivers that elusive blend of comfort, style, and coastal ease.
Rates and Discounts
Base rate: $350 per night
Cleaning fee: $90
Extra guests: $75 per person per night after 2 guests (children and adults)
Long stay discounts:
10% off for bookings of 8+ nights
30% off for bookings of 28+ nights
With its size, location, and generous features, Gathering Shores offers good value—especially for longer bookings.
City Chic at Lola Melbourne
Before their Peninsula stay, Chris and Terrie were lucky enough to stay at Patricia and Irvine’s city apartment, Lola Melbourne. Located right in the heart of the CBD, this light-filled and beautifully furnished apartment is a little slice of serenity amongst the hustle and bustle.
They described it as “divine”—a perfect stopover for catching a show, visiting a gallery, or enjoying a night out without worrying about the drive home.
Lola Melbourne is also a smart option for those travelling from out of town who want to tack on a city break before heading to the coast or countryside.
Final Thoughts from Terrie
“As Seniors, we found everything very accommodating. There are a few steps, but nothing unmanageable. The house was spotless and incredibly comfortable. We’d love to come back with family in the summer for an amazing beach holiday.”
– Terrie
If you’re looking for a relaxed and stylish getaway with all the comforts of home—and the kind of care that makes you feel truly welcomed—Gathering Shores and Lola Melbourne are both beautiful choices.
To book your stay, search “Gathering Shores” or “Lola Melbourne” on Airbnb, or follow @escape_the_ordinary_collection on Instagram.
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
The Seniors in Melbourne team was hosted at Gathering Shores. All opinions are the writers’ own.
