Sorrento: Why locals and tourists are obsessed with this 'magical part of the world'

As the leaves and temperature drop in Victoria, visitors to the historical seaside township of Sorrento will dwindle, leaving those who reside here to appreciate the place they call home with fewer crowds, if only for a short while.

Sure, the town shines during summer, especially along its stunning beaches, from the surfer’s paradise of ocean beach to the family-friendly waters of front beach.

But then again, winter is when the open fire is cranking, a glass of red from one of the many nearby wineries and restaurants is especially soothing, and the brisk air during walks along trails and nearby national parks feels incredibly refreshing.

Year-round beachside bliss

Speaking as a lifelong local, Myles Pitt believes Sorrento is arguably even more beautiful during the cooler months.

His family has lived in the area since the 1980s when his grandparents bought the Hotel Sorrento, a historic landmark that has undergone recent renovations.

“I believe there’s such a special story to be told and an exciting new chapter unfolding at the hotel, much like Sorrento itself,” Pitt says.

“We are so lucky to be located on a beautiful peninsula surrounded by water, national parks, and incredible local produce – it’s simply a magical part of the world.”

While many Victorians regard Sorrento as the ultimate seaside playground, Pitt views the town more sentimentally, more akin to a long-term relationship than a summer romance.

“In our town, everyone will go out of their way to make you feel welcome,” he says. “Whether it’s getting out on boats, rallying behind the local footy club, or sipping cocktails under the stars on our hotel’s rooftop, it just feels like home.”

Serene slice of Sorrento

When asked what draws not both holidaymakers and buyers to the suburb, Jellis Craig Sorrento director Emil Foller points out that luxury properties offering the ultimate in coastal living play a role, from sprawling estates with manicured gardens to the mansions found along the cliffside stretch of Millionaire’s Walk.

“These prestige properties are then matched by a stylish and sophisticated village, with the main strip along Ocean Beach Road serving a variety of cosmopolitan delights,” Foller explains.

“Of course, there’s also the nearby renowned wineries, such as Pt. Leo Estate and two hot-spring resorts, Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs and Spa.”

According to Domain’s latest House Price Report, stable conditions persist in Melbourne’s housing market, suggesting house prices are currently at or close to the bottom of the price cycle, with Sorrento’s median presently sitting at $2.28 million.

“I expect the market to stabilise as the interest rates top out and possibly drop,” Foller adds. “This should signal the start of the next cycle, in which buyers look for quality homes in strong locations like Sorrento.”

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31-35 Salonika Street, Sorrento VIC 3943

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Coast meets country in this ultimate country-style residence, where days are spent cosying up in the central living, dining and kitchen zone with cathedral ceilings and big bay windows, or basking in the sun by the north-facing inground pool and deck.