As you head into the middle of the peninsula, from either side, there is a major change in the natural environment as you climb up into virtual high country which is characterised by gum trees, quiet lanes, hilly terrain, dirt roads, farms, orchards, small general stores and, tucked away amidst the trees and hills, some cafes and restaurants and plenty of galleries and vineyards. There has been a profusion of the latter in recent years as the terrain, temperate climate and fertile soil have proved ideal for oenology. The area is noted for its pinot noir, shiraz and chardonnay.
Land here is quite expensive and so an air of exclusivity hangs in the air.
Former prime minister, Malcolm Fraser, has recently taken up residence in the area. Red Hill had a 1996 population of 960. It is 73 km south of Melbourne and about 5 km east of Dromana . To get there head out of Dromana via McCulloch Rd which passes under the freeway then take a right turn onto Arthurs Seat Rd which becomes the Red Hill to Shoreham Rd. Middens on the peninsula indicate that Aborigines used the area on a seasonal basis for hundreds if not thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans.