Portarlington year after year, over multiple generations, some eventually buying holiday homes in the area, and they have become important contributors to the social and economic life of the town. In more recent years the Seachange phenomenon has also made a notable impact on the town, with greater numbers of people buying property by the sea for lifestyle reasons or to enjoy their retirement. This has had a dramatic effect on property prices and has also led to calls for improvements in services and infrastructure in the area. Places of interest The Portarlington Mill is a heritage site that houses a museum. The site is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. Claremont on the Bellarine. c1870. Known also as Laura Villa and Claremont House. One of the finest heritage homesteads in the seaside village of Portarlington, Victoria. It is a fine example of the uniquely Australian Victorian Rustic Gothic architectural design. Heritage Council Victoria and City of Greater Geelong Planning Scheme Heritage Overlay: HO: 1558 Portarlington Pier: Centre of economic and recreational activity in Portarlington. Portarlington Rotunda: Distinctive landmark in the centre of town. Tall Sailing Ship top sail schooner [[Enterprize Replica|Enterprize]] docks at the Portarlington Pier Christmas/New Year period, Mussel Festival January and Celtic Festival June.(On board Celtic music by Richard Armstrong) Bellarine Hills: Portarlington's natural skyline, offering spectacular Bay views, wineries, olive groves, etc. Mussel Farms: A significant economic activity in Portarlington. Point Richards Flora and Fauna Reserve: A local haven for wildlife and native vegetation around the wetlands on the western edge of the town. Portarlington Miniature Railway. . at Point Richards. Corner Boat Rd and Pt Richards Roads. This popular club runs train rides every Sunday throughout the year and also Wednesdays during Xmas school holidays. It has a kiosk where coffee and ice creams are available. New members are always welcome. Festivals and events Bay Cycling Classic: Portarlington hosts a full day of events in this world-class criterium series held at select locations around Port Phillip Bay in the New Year. Portarlington Mussel Festival: Food and festivities at Portarlington, the "Mussel Capital of Victoria", in mid January. Portarlington Triathlon: Described as one of the best courses in Australia. Victoria's oldest running triathlon event is held in late summer. Bellarine Agricultural Show: Variety of displays and activities held annually in March on the Portarlington Reserve. National Celtic Festival: Major festival of Celtic folk music, dancing, and