Cowes

Picture this a bustling seaside town named Cowes. Cowes sits proudly on Phillip Island a short drive from Melbourne. Originally known as Mussel Rocks Cowes received its name in 1865. A surveyor named Henry Cox returning from a holiday in England named it after the English town of Cowes. Thompson Avenue Cowes’ main street boasts a unique feature. A mile-long avenue of Golden Cypress trees lines the road. William Eastwood Thompson planted these trees between 1912 and 1935. Locals and schoolchildren helped with this ambitious project. The Cowes Jetty built in 1870 remains a focal point of the town. It’s flanked by sheltered beaches perfect for families. New Year’s Eve fireworks displays add to Cowes’ charm. Cancelled in 2010 they were reinstated in 2017. From the waterfront you might spot a container ship heading to or from the port at Hastings. Cowes experiences an oceanic climate. Summers are warm and relatively dry. Winters are mild and wetter. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year. In recent years Cowes has expanded significantly. Many new homes and apartments have been built on previously rural farmland. About 70% of houses are owned by people living outside Cowes mostly in and around Melbourne. Cowes is more than just a pretty face. It’s a vibrant community with a rich history. It’s a place where the past and present meet. Cowes is a town where you can relax on the beach. You can also enjoy the local shops and restaurants. It’s a town with a lot to offer. So take a moment to explore this remarkable place. Let the beauty of Cowes charm you.