The Yarra Valley is the go-to wine region for stunning scenery, world-class wine and cute towns. With the Dandenong Ranges at your doorstep and so many things to do, from wine tastings to hot air balloon rides, there’s something for everyone. This guide covers the best and most popular towns in the Yarra Valley, what to see, where to go and must-do’s. Whether you’re an adventurer, wine enthusiast, or just looking for some chill time, the Yarra Valley has it all.
Healesville – The Cultural and Natural Hub
Healesville is a busy town with great views, art galleries and the famous Healesville Sanctuary where you can see native animals like kangaroos, koalas and platypus. It’s the entry point to the region’s natural beauty and cultural treasures. Healesville has the charm of a small town and the diversity of attractions so it’s perfect for nature lovers and culture buffs.
Attractions
Healesville Sanctuary: A must see for anyone who wants to get up close to Australian wildlife. Daily presentations and interactive exhibits will give you an insight into the conservation of endangered species.
TarraWarra Museum of Art: Contemporary Australian art in a vineyard setting. It is a cultural gem with beautiful architecture and panoramic views.
Dominique Portet Winery: French-inspired wines with a pretty setting. Family-owned winery with tradition and innovation. Wine tasting with local cheeses.
Events & Activities
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery: Chocolate tastings and interactive workshops. Fun for families and chocoholics.
Hot Air Ballooning: Drift above the valley at dawn and take in the beautiful views of vineyards, mountains and rivers. A once in a lifetime experience.
Healesville Hotel: Historic hotel with gourmet dining. Seasonal menu showcasing local produce. Pair with a Yarra Valley wine for the ultimate experience.
Yarra Glen – Wine Heaven
Yarra Glen is the wine town, home to some of the best wineries in the area. It’s famous for its cool climate, wines, and views of the vineyards. With its village and gourmet food, Yarra Glen is a food and wine lover’s paradise.
Attractions
Yering Station: One of the oldest and most iconic wineries in the area, Yering Station has a stylish tasting room, art gallery and restaurant.
Chateau Yering Hotel: A historic icon, this luxury hotel has Victorian elegance and modern convenience. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a break from the world.
Coombe Yarra Valley: Once the home of Dame Nellie Melba, this estate is now a wine-tasting, garden tour and dining destination. The 7-acre gardens are stunning and give a glimpse into the region’s history.
Gourmet Experiences
Rochford Wines: Concerts and events, casual picnics to fine dining, wine tasting room to try the whole range.
Yarra Valley Dairy: Taste the best cheeses in the region, made with fresh local milk. The dairy and farm shop is a must see.
Oakridge Wines: Award-winning wines and innovative food, a seasonal menu featuring local produce, and glass walls with vineyard nice views.
Warburton – Nature’s Retreat
In the heart of the Yarra Valley, Warburton is surrounded by dense forest and the peaceful Yarra River, it’s a nature lover and outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The town is famous for its peace and beauty, with plenty of outdoor activities from hiking to cycling.
Outdoor Activities
Lake Mountain Alpine Resort: Just a short drive from Warburton, cross-country skiing and snow play in winter. Mountain biking and bushwalking in summer.
Maroondah Reservoir Park: Picnic in the gardens with views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. Walking tracks, picnic areas and the dam
Attractions
Warburton Rail Trail: Follow the old railway line with stunning views of the valley and river. Walking, cycling or horse riding.
Redwood Forest: Step into a fairy tale as you walk through the towering Californian redwoods—a peaceful place to reflect and take photos.
Mount Donna Buang: Snow play in winter and hiking in summer. Summit has views of the Yarra Valley and beyond.
Marysville – The Adventure Starts Here
Marysville is at the foot of the Great Dividing Range and close to Lake Mountain and Steavenson Falls. Adventure and nature lover’s heaven with hiking, skiing and forest exploring.
Attractions
Steavenson Falls: One of Victoria’s highest waterfalls, lit up at night and magic—well-maintained path to several viewing platforms.
Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden: A quirky attraction with sculptures in beautiful gardens. A community project to celebrate creativity and resilience.
Murchison Gap Lookout: Great views of the valley and mountains. Perfect for photography and taking in the scenery.
Seasonal Activities
Winter at Lake Mountain: Skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing in winter. Family-friendly and lessons for beginners.
Spring Blooms: Explore the gardens and wildflowers around Marysville in spring. Marysville Garden Weekend is a must for gardeners.
Seville – Wineries and more
Boutique wineries and picturesque countryside. Take your time and visit wineries.
Attractions
Seville Estate: Winery with beautiful wines and cellar door overlooking the vineyards—tasting and picnic in the gardens.
Hubert Estate: Art, wine and history. Winery, art gallery and museum of the Yarra Valley.
Seville Water Play Park: Family-friendly. Picnic and fun in the sun. Splash zones, picnic areas and views of the hills.
Family Activities
Fruit Picking: Spend the day with the family at one of Seville’s many orchards. Pick your own cherries, berries and apples during harvest season.
Local Markets: Visit the Seville Market for handmade crafts, local produce and live music. A taste of the local lifestyle.
Coldstream – The Entry Point
Known as the gateway to the Yarra Valley, Coldstream is famous for its wineries and historic sites—a great place to start your journey and get a taste of the region’s food and wine.
Visit
Domaine Chandon: Sparkling wine specialist Domaine Chandon offers a luxurious tasting experience with a beautiful setting and modern design.
Coldstream Hills: Founded by winemaker James Halliday, Coldstream Hills is known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Tasting in the modern cellar door with views.
Coombe Yarra Valley: Historic estate once home to opera singer Dame Nellie Melba. Guided tours of the gardens and fine dining.
Scenic Activities
Hot Air Balloon Flights: See the Yarra Valley from above. Fly over vineyards, rivers and hills at sunrise and breakfast.
Maroondah Reservoir Park: Unwind and take in the views of walking trails, dam walls, and picnic areas.
Yarra Junction – Country Life
Yarra Junction is a quiet town with lovely views and Dandenong Ranges at your doorstep. A peaceful escape and a taste of the country.
Visit
Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail: 38km of cycling and walking trail. Mountain and valley views and passes through several towns.
Woori Yallock Creek: Nice spot for a walk or picnic. The creek is surrounded by bush and is home to native birds and wildlife.
Mountain Ash Forests: Walk through the towering Mountain Ash forests in the Yarra Ranges National Park. The tallest trees in the world and like a cathedral.
Family Activities
Lilydale Lake: Family friendly. Picnic grounds, playgrounds and walking trails. Fishing and boating.
Upper Yarra Museum: Learn about the history of the Yarra Valley and how the region was settled. Exhibits, artifacts and photos.
Wandin – Farm-to-Table Heaven
Wandin is all about farming and country life. Come and experience farm-to-table and slow down.
Attractions
CherryHill Orchards: One of the best places to pick cherries around. Taste the sweetness of freshly picked cherries and take in the view of the orchards.
Blue Hills Berries & Cherries: Family-owned farm with seasonal fruit. Pick your own or visit the farm shop for fresh produce and homemade jams.
Wandin Silvan Field Days: Annual event to celebrate the region’s farming heritage. Farm machinery, local produce and fun for the whole family
Farm Experiences
Tasting Sessions: Visit local orchards and farms for tastings of fresh fruit, homemade ciders and jams. Learn about sustainable farming and the region’s history.
Local Markets: Browse the markets for local produce, handmade crafts and live music. A great way to get a feel for the community and support local makers.
Yering – History & Wine
Yering is a historic town with historic buildings and famous wineries. History and modern winemaking = must see for history buffs and wine lovers.
Attractions
Yering Station: Victoria’s oldest vineyard. Wine tasting in a beautiful setting. Restaurant and art gallery on site.
Chateau Yering Hotel: This historic hotel has luxurious accommodations and fine dining in a restored Victorian mansion. Stay and play in the region.
Yarra Yering: One of the oldest and most famous wineries in the Yarra Valley. Great wines and a great location. Tasting in the cellar door.
Historic Experiences
Heritage Tours: Explore the Yarra Valley’s history with guided tours of the vineyards, heritage buildings and natural environments.
Coombe Yarra Valley: Learn about Dame Nellie Melba and her connection to the region: guided tours and museum on site.
FAQ
Where to wine taste?
Yarra Glen has some of the best wineries in the world, including Yering Station, Rochford Wines, and Oakridge Wines, and it has many wine tastings.
Family-friendly?
Towns like Healesville and Warburton have family-friendly activities like Healesville Sanctuary, Warburton Rail Trail and Lilydale Lake for a day out with the kids.
Can I see native wildlife?
Healesville Sanctuary is where you can see native animals like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats, and it is educational and interactive.
Where to picnic?
Maroondah Reservoir Park, Seville Water Play Park, and the grounds of the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie are great picnic spots with views and family-friendly facilities.
How do I get here from Melbourne?
The Yarra Valley is an hour from Melbourne. You can also take the train to Lilydale and then local buses or join a guided tour.
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