When Melburnians think of a summer activity, cooling down is top of mind. A trip to an idyllic swimming hole, local ice-cream shops and gorgeous beaches top the list, but sitting in a geothermal pool isn't the first thing that springs to mind. Don't write the hot springs off entirely, though: the award-winning Peninsula Hot Springs just debuted an aptly named Cool Zone, amongst other heat-friendly amenities that put a refreshing spin on summer soaks. For the uninitiated, cold plunge pools and a cavernous ice cave sit in the spa's Fire and Ice area, a circuit designed for contrast therapy, where guests move from hot to cold experiences. Now, the icier end of the offering has expanded with the addition of three amphitheatre pools that stay at a comfortable 20 degrees, alongside refreshing mist "clouds" that spritz from above. Follow the Cool Trail as you move from one chilled pool to another — think mist-filled pathways, cold geo-thermal showers and temperature-controlled benches shaded by lush greenery. Summer menus are in full swing around the springs. Right at the entrance, local gelateria The Yard By The Bay has set up an ice cream bar with crowd-pleasing scoops like salted caramel and pistachio. From cold brews to iced matchas to acai bowls and choc-top, the Amphitheatre Cafe is stocked with more sunny-day snacks. And if the day calls for something a little more spirited, the Bath House Cafe is pouring Limoncello spritzes. Pair your bath with the seasonal Summer Salt & Glow treatment — a 75-minute ritual that combines a salt exfoliation with a soothing back massage, ending with a calming aloe vera body moisturiser. The adults-only Spa Dreaming Centre is also equipped with thoughtful details to manage the heat, including chilled face washers, hydration stations and iced teas. Our hot tips? Get to the springs early to enjoy the crisp morning air before exploring the rest of the Mornington region — it opens at 7 am on weekdays and 5 am on weekends — or dodge the UV rays completely with a moonlit bath on the weekend.
