Glen Isla

Phillip Island's Crowning Glory

Just a 2 hour drive south of Melbourne, beautiful Phillip Island is most famously known for its little penguins which march up the beach at dusk every evening. But unbeknown to many, the island also boasts koalas, an amazing variety of birdlife and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest fur seal colony – not to mention the miles of rugged natural coastline and glorious unspoiled deserted beaches.

 If you’re looking for an escape from Melbourne or a recommended stop before heading to the Great Ocean Road, there’s simply nowhere more welcoming than this intimate country-house retreat set in the grounds of the historic Glen Isla Homestead (c 1870) on Phillip Island’s north coast, just 100 metres from a pristine sandy beach. Owned and managed by husband and wife team Ian and Madeleine Baker, Glen Isla’s relaxed unobtrusive ambience is undoubtedly the result of the couple’s many years spent living and travelling overseas, staying in small hotels and guest houses. The accommodation comprises six classic guest rooms, the separate two bedroomed self-contained Gate Cottage – and the jewel in Glen Isla’s crown – the Anderson Suite Cottage, complete with four poster bed. 

Ian’s passion for fine food ensures that breakfast (included in your stay) is a gourmet feast, with the menu varying to incorporate local produce, much of it organic. For dinner, your hosts will happily recommend several excellent local restaurants.

Ultimate Penguin Experience

You simply won’t have ‘done’ Phillip Island until you’ve witnessed the ‘Ultimate Penguin Experience’. Every day as dusk approaches, the suspense is tangible as a group of no more than 10 people assemble on a private secluded beach, accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger, awaiting the sunset return of the world’s smallest penguins as they appear almost miraculously from the sea to march up the beach to their sand dune burrows – a heart-warming experience you won’t easily forget.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Depart Melbourne after breakfast and head south on the Monash Freeway to the Phillip Island exit. The drive will eventually take you through San Remo fishing village and over the bridge onto Phillip Island. Churchill Island Heritage Working Farm (signposted on the right just 1km over the bridge) is well worth a visit – this tiny historic island holds an important place in the history of European settlement in Victoria. Visit the original National Trust Classified House (c 1862) and enjoy lunch at Churchill Island Café. Then continue on to Glen Isla House in Cowes. Enjoy an early dinner at a recommended local restaurant before joining the Ultimate Penguin Experience at dusk.

Day 2

After an early morning beach stroll, return to enjoy your chef-prepared gourmet breakfast – undoubtedly a highlight! Then drive to the magnificent headland known as ‘The Nobbies’ and view the fur seal colony on the live cameras (1½ kilometres offshore, a rocky outcrop known as Seal Rocks, is home to Australia’s largest colony of fur seals). Walk along the boardwalk to the blowhole for some spectacular rugged coastline views. Other optional suggestions include a scenic helicopter flight, a visit to the Koala Conservation Centre or a cruise from Cowes Pier to Seal Rocks . Phillip Island also has some fabulous wineries.

Day 3

After another special breakfast, leave Glen Isla and either enjoy a leisurely drive back to Melbourne or head towards Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula to board the car ferry across to Queenscliff and onward to the Great Ocean Road.