The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are a chocoholic’s dream come true, with views and a smorgasbord of sweet treats. Just outside Melbourne, this beautiful region is famous for food and scenery. From artisan chocolates to fresh farm produce, it’s a sensory overload for anyone who loves sweet treats, good food and great views.
Yarra Valley for Foodies
The Yarra Valley is food and soil, it’s a foodie’s heaven. This gorgeous region is not just famous for its wine but for its many food experiences. The wineries like Domaine Chandon and Punt Road Wines have great wine tastings and cellar door experiences that match the local produce. The Yarra Valley has everything from farm fresh produce to handcrafted cheeses and pastries. The greenery and views make every meal a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
Views and Food
The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are the ultimate places to get outdoors and indulge in good food. Imagine drinking a rich hot chocolate or eating a variety of chocolate treats while looking out over the vineyards and forests. The region’s cool climate gardens, like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Alowyn Gardens, are the perfect place for a foodie adventure. Whether you’re wandering through the private gardens of Enchanted Adventure Garden or tasting fresh fruit from boutique orchards like CherryHill Orchards, the combination of mountain ash forests and good food is a winner.
Bakeries to Visit
For those who love sweet treats, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges have some of the best bakeries around. Local favourites include little shops famous for their rich and handmade chocolates, fresh pastries and cakes. Bakeries in towns like Yarra Glen and Healesville have rocky roads to chocolate balls, so you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Bakery Name and Specialties
| Bakery Name | Specialties | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Yarra Valley Bakery | Fruit tarts, sourdough, and croissants | Yarra Glen |
| The Dandenong Bakehouse | Cupcakes, brownies, and artisan bread | Olinda |
| Healesville Bakehouse | Danish pastries, chocolate éclairs, and tarts | Healesville |
| Maroondah’s Rustic Bread | Rustic bread, Danish pastries, and pies | Chirnside Park |
| The Chocolate Box Bakery | Specialty cakes, macarons, and chocolate treats | Belgrave |
Healesville Sanctuary: Sweet Spot
Healesville Sanctuary is a Yarra Valley institution that is not just for families. It’s a chance to see Aussie wildlife in their natural habitat and have a day trip with a sweet twist. The sanctuary has native wildlife, greenery, nature, and sweet treats. After you’ve visited the sanctuary, you can indulge in some of the region’s sweet goodies at the nearby cafes and markets.
Chocolate & Ice Creamery
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery is a chocolate lover’s dream. Hand made chocolates and ice creamery treats are the focus here and sustainability is key. The chocolaterie has a huge range of chocolate goodies including chocolate balls and artisanal chocolates made by European chocolatiers. You can taste chocolate and enjoy the farm views and cool climate gardens.
Ann Creber’s - Chocolate Fudge Dessert
Ann Creber’s is renowned for their chocolate fudge dessert, a dessert lover’s delight. This local institution combines rich, creamy chocolate with a dash of artisanal flair, it’s a must try for any sweet tooth. Ann Creber’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship means every bite of their fudge dessert is a pleasure.
High Teas to Tempt Your Taste Buds in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges
High teas are a tradition in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, a lovely way to try sweet and savoury treats. Places like the Olinda Tea House have a beautiful setting to enjoy afternoon tea with freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and pastries. A great way to indulge in good food in the region’s gardens.
Signature Series: Coombe Yarra Valley’s Peach Melba
Coombe Yarra Valley, the former home of an opera singer, is famous for its Signature Series which includes the Peach Melba. This dessert is a celebration of the region’s produce and culinary expertise. The Peach Melba is a taste of Yarra Valley gourmet food; ripe peaches, vanilla ice cream and raspberry coulis.
Yarra Valley Farmers Market
The Yarra Valley Farmers Market is a colourful display of local produce, with everything from fresh fruit to artisanal cheese. A must visit for anyone who wants to try and buy local. The market has cheese experiences, fresh cheese tastings and sweet treats. A great place to visit farm gates and try regional produce. The region’s farm shops like Rosehaven Farms and Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm have sweet treats including fresh fruit and artisanal sweets.
Conclusion
The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are a sweet spot for foodies. Bakeries, chocolates and high teas, there’s something for everyone. From Healesville Sanctuary to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery there’s something for every sweet tooth. Whether you stroll through mountain ash forests or indulge in artisanal chocolate the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges is the place to have a foodie day out.
FAQ
Best bakeries in Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges?
Yarra Glen and Healesville have some great bakeries with rocky road and hand made chocolates.
What can I find at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery?
Chocolate balls and artisanal chocolates and hand made ice creams made with the environment in mind.
Where can I have high tea in Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges?
High tea at the Olinda Tea House where you can have freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and pastries in a lovely setting.
What’s Coombe Yarra Valley known for?
Coombe Yarra Valley is known for its Signature Series desserts and its gardens which were once owned by an opera singer.
Yarra Valley Farmers Market?
Local produce – fresh fruit, artisanal cheese and sweet treats. Try and buy.
Can I combine wine and chocolate tasting in Melbourne?
Yes! The Yarra Valley Wine and Chocolate Tour is a fantastic choice for combining chocolate and wine tasting. This tour takes you to the Yarra Valley, where you’ll visit chocolateries and vineyards, offering a unique blend of sweet and savory experiences.
How long do Yarra Valley chocolate tours usually last?
Most Yarra Valley chocolate tours are full-day experiences, as they often include multiple stops at wineries, chocolateries, and scenic viewpoints. If you’re looking for a shorter tour, some operators offer half-day options focused primarily on chocolateries.
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