Hiking - Exploring the Red Hill Rail Trail

A local favourite for nature lovers and weekend wanderers

Discover one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most scenic walks, the Red Hill Rail Trail, just minutes from The Cheeky Cherry. Winding through vineyards, farmland, and rolling hills, it’s the perfect blend of fresh air, gentle exercise, and stunning views.

A Weekend on the Red Hill Rail Trail – The Perfect Peninsula Walk

Nearly every weekend, I love to lace up my hiking boots and explore one of the beautiful local tracks around the Mornington Peninsula, and this time, it was the Red Hill Rail Trail. As a hiker and nature lover, this one quickly became a favourite: peaceful, scenic, and filled with that signature Peninsula charm.

The walk stretches about 12 kilometres return, running between Red Hill South and Merricks. You can start at either end, but I began in Red Hill just a few minutes from The Cheeky Cherry. The track follows the old railway line that once connected the two towns, winding past vineyards, farmland, and bushland alive with birdsong.

It’s an easy-to-moderate trail, perfect for a relaxed weekend stroll or a light workout. The best part? There’s no shortage of reward stops along the way. You’ll pass cellar doors, farm gates, and picnic spots with sweeping views over the rolling hills,  it really captures that “country escape” feeling without needing to go far.

When you reach Merricks, make sure to pop into the Merricks General Wine Store for a coffee, brunch, or maybe a cheeky glass of wine (you’ve earned it!). I sat outside, enjoyed the sunshine, and honestly felt like I’d been away for a weekend even though I was only a short drive from home.

If you’re visiting The Cheeky Cherry for your cherries or fresh produce, I can’t recommend this walk enough. Bring a friend, wear comfortable shoes, and soak up everything the Peninsula has to offer,  good air, good views, and good energy.

Trust me, this one will become a regular on your weekend rotation.

Kristy Bartlett