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Fascinating Historical Facts - Mornington Peninsula
The Opening of Arthurs Seat Tourist Road

Stunning views from Arthurs Seat

Up until 1929, Arthurs Seat was basically accessible only from Red Hill on the eastern side of the mountain. A track, made in 1896 by James Chapman did exist from Dromana to what is now known as Seawinds. Although the Country Fire Authority constructed a track which lead from the Bunurong track near Dromana Cemetery to Seawind in 1983, it was not until 1997 after devastating bush fires that the original track made by James Chapman was discovered.

The Roads Board constructed a graded twisting, winding dirt road from Dromana to the summit of Arthurs Seat in 1929. It was opened by Lord Somers, then Governor of Victoria, on the 14th December 1929. In 1962 the road was widened and sealed, making it safer for buses and tourist to ascend to the summit.

When the road was first opened, 5 plaques were unveiled to acknowledge the early history of Arthurs Seat. These are located at lookout vantage point along the roadside.

Bowen's Lookout - 145 meters. The plaque reads 'Bowens Point to Commemorate Chief Officer Bowden of the Lady Nelson. First White man to enter Port Philip on 4th February 1802. Presented by J.H. King Esq. 14/12/1929'

Franklin Point - 195 meters. The plaque reads 'To Commemorate Sir John Franklin who ascended this mountain in 1802 and 1844. Presented by A.V. Shaw Esq. 14/12/1929'

The view from Franklin Point Lookout

Murray's Lookout - 247 meters. The plaque reads 'To Commemorate Lieut. John Murray who named this mountain on 15th Feb. 1802. Presented by L. Carrigg Esq. 14/12/1929'

The view gets better the higher you get. View from Murray's Lookout

The monument at Murray's Lookout

Chapman's Point - 274 meters. The plaque reads 'In honour of a pioneer family. Presented by Mr & Mrs G.R. Dyson 14/12/1929.'

Chapman's Point lookout. Absolutely stunning views

Arthurs Seat Summit - 305 meters. The plaque reads 'This Tablet was unveiled by Baron Somers K.C.M.G. D.S.O. M.C. Governor of Victoria to commemorate the opening of the Arthurs Seat Road on 14th December 1929. The First Trig Station was erected on this site in 1853. Presented by Spencer Jackson Esq.'

The Arthurs Seat Chairlift Kiosk (now closed) at the start of Arthurs Seat Tourist Road

Arthurs Seat Tourist Road is accessed from Point Nepean Road via McCullough Street, Dromana. At the base of Arthurs Seat Road is the kiosk that was the starting point for the now defunct Arthurs Seat Chairlift. There is a walk starting at the car park called the Bunurong Walk that goes across the bottom of Dromana Cemetery and joins up with the Two Bays Walking trail that goes to Seawind. As you start driving up Arthurs Seat Tourist Road, the Dromana Cemetery is located on the right at the second bend. This is steeped in local history and has a sensational view of Port Philip Bay.

The view from the historic Dromana Cemetery

Please take care driving Arthurs Seat Tourist Road and take your time. There are many sharp and dangerous turns and it is quite steep. When pulling into the lookout car park areas please be aware of other motorists on the road.