Merricks

“The old country folk are known for saying, ‘Where things are slow, they stay that way.’ It’s true for the Merricks. Not much changes here. What was first settled in 1865 by a fella named John Caldwell, and was just a cattle station in those days, is still a small place, with many of the original settler houses still standing today. It’s on the Frankston-Flinders Road, so if you’re driving, you’re sure to see it, but it’s a bit of a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot. People come here for the general store, the post office, or the chocolate factory, which is a very good reason to visit. There’s a vineyard also, called Merricks Creek, where they make some delicious Pinot Noir. But that’s not the reason I’m telling you about this little place.”
“The Merricks is also home to a horse riding trail, along a disused railway route, going from Merricks Station Ground Reserve to Red Hill. It’s a 6.3 km trail that winds through mostly rural land and there are trees along the path. It’s a pretty relaxing ride, especially if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne.”
“I know this place, this trail, this bit of the Mornington Peninsula, pretty well. I’m born and bred in these parts. My people settled here when everyone else was too busy making their fortunes in the gold rush. But, see, those people who came down here, they had a good life. They took their time, and they appreciated the beauty of the place, and they didn’t just want to be rich. Those are the people who built Merricks, and I think that’s why it’s still so charming. It’s a place to slow down and just enjoy the simple things in life. And I imagine that’s just the kind of experience you’re looking for.”