Hotel Sorrento, review: Hello, young lovers...

Frolicking dolphins help Hilda Quiroga celebrate a special relationship.

Milestones in a relationship ought to be celebrated. Rather than opt for the usual drinks, dinner and a gig, we choose something a little out of the ordinary; snorkelling and swimming with the dolphins and seals that grace the Mornington Peninsula. My longest surviving partner (four years and he's inducted into my hall of fame) directs me to a winding, steep driveway that he assumes is the path to the Hotel Sorrento.

On check-in, we learn that no, it's a pedestrian path and there's no way out but to reverse down the treacherous path. Loath am I to seem incapable, yet I swallow my pride and ask if there is anyone at the hotel who could reverse it for me as my partner does not drive.

The friendly reception staff reassure me that I'm not the first to drive up the wrong way and one staff member offers to do me the favour.

I've always wanted to stay at this iconic hotel that sits majestically on the cliff top, overlooking the sea. Built more than 140 years ago and the oldest commercial building in Sorrento, the hotel remains a family business and has been refurbished and restored.

The On the Hill studio apartment is one of the most luxurious on offer at the Sorrento. It's roomy and has a balcony with a gorgeous view of Port Phillip Bay, although I do spare a thought for the backyards we intrude on. The view can also be enjoyed in the bathroom, whether soaking in the spa tub or perched on the porcelain throne.

The apartment is fully self-contained; kitchen with all cooking utensils one may need, minibar for late night indulgence, toiletries aplenty and an inviting chaise longue that demands hours of use.

While it is tempting to while away the day on the balcony with the view, take a stroll through the grounds and you still have the view. But with a cold beverage in hand at the Limestone Bar, you can watch the Sorrento to Queenscliff ferry carry passengers and cars back and forth. The sea is sparkling, the breeze is gentle and the Limestone is coming alive.

In Melbourne, long gone are the days where a bar offers finger food to drinking patrons, but at this hospitable watering hole a cheese and antipasto platter comes around and is just the thing to graze on while soaking up the vista.