As residents of Victoria, we know the scenic Yarra Valley tour. Our comprehensive guide on things to do in the Yarra Valley provides local recommendations on sightseeing, dining, information, and accommodation options.
The Yarra Valley , located near Melbourne, attracts visitors from Victoria and elsewhere. It features beautiful vineyards, charming towns, and expansive natural surroundings. It offers a variety of exciting experiences, and the best part is that it’s only an hour away from Melbourne’s CBD.
Healesville, Warburton, and Marysville offer a variety of experiences for visitors. In Healesville, you will find a vibrant food and wine scene, along with hipster bars, galleries, and stores. Warburton is a charming country town with natural wonders to explore. Marysville is a natural paradise with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing.
In the area, you can find scenic roads that wind through beautiful forests, numerous hiking and cycling trails, and a variety of providers, cellar doors, cafes, and restaurants.
For us, the Yarra Valley offers a variety of experiences, such as peaceful drives through the forest, enjoying a delicious sausage roll at a local bakery, or discovering hidden cellar doors with organic wines. Additionally, it provides opportunities for leisurely walks in lush green forests, cozy evenings by the fire, and enjoying summer nights at farmers’ markets while sipping on Lambrusco.
Our Yarra Valley guide provides comprehensive information on various attractions, hidden gems, accommodations, dining options, and transportation methods to cater to all interests and preferences.
YARRA VALLEY GUIDE
When to Visit Strahan?
The Yarra Valley, known for its beauty, is situated approximately 60km east of Melbourne’s CBD.
The Yarra Valley is a popular weekend getaway for people from Melbourne, known for its scenic landscapes and charming towns.
The Yarra Valley is the traditional land of the Wurundjeri people, who have inhabited the area for 30,000 years. The region experienced significant changes with the arrival of European settlers, who introduced logging, mining, and farming as the main industries in the newly formed state.
In 1838, the Ryrie brothers planted the first vines in the Yarra Valley, which quickly became known for its wine-growing potential. The region’s wine gained global recognition, leading to rapid expansion in viticulture. Today, the Yarra Valley is considered one of the top cold climate wine-growing regions in the world, with renowned wineries such as St. Huberts, De Bortoli, Yering Station, and Oakridge.
Currently, the Yarra Valley is attracting people from Victoria and beyond due to its outstanding food, wine, and natural surroundings.
WHERE TO ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE YARRA VALLEY
Although the Yarra Valley is located near Melbourne, it is highly recommended to stay overnight or longer in the region.
Below is a list of recommended places to stay, offering a wide selection of incredible options.
ALSACE RETREAT
The Alsace Retreat is a small accommodation that includes all the necessary amenities such as a well-equipped kitchen, a coffee machine, heating and A/C, and beautiful views of Mount Saint Leonard from the bed. It also has a separate bathroom with a bath and shower for relaxation.
ANCIENT FUTURE AT WARBY SABI
Located a short walk from Warburton village, the Warby Sabi Airbnb offers a minimal Japanese-style retreat that provides a sense of tranquility and escape from everyday life. This meticulously designed space includes practical amenities, a well-equipped kitchen, a garden with fresh herbs, sliding barn-style doors, and a comfortable bed overlooking the surrounding trees for a peaceful wake-up. Additionally, guests can enjoy the convenience of an indoor fireplace and a TV projector, making it an ideal location for a memorable movie night.
WARBURTON DIGS
Warburton Digs is a spacious, airy house ideal for a group weekend away. It can accommodate up 9 people across 4 bedrooms and has 2 bathrooms, 3 separate toilets, A/C for summer and a cosy indoor wood fireplace for the cooler months. The open-plan kitchen and living area are well-stocked with essential amenities, making it suitable for any catering plans you might have.
The Loft Alchemy Distillers is located in Healesville.
The Loft is a conveniently located accommodation option in Healesville, above the Alchemy Distillery. It offers easy access to restaurants, pubs, and distilleries in the town centre.
Additionally, it is a convenient distance to the wineries and the Black Spur.
HOTELS
WARBURTON MOTEL
The Warburton Motel has recently been renovated and offers comfortable beds. It is conveniently located within walking distance of town, and the staff are helpful and knowledgeable about the surrounding area. Additionally, the motel has a blue Kombi that is quite appealing.
OSCAR'S ON THE YARRA
Oscar’s on the Yarra is a country retreat in a boutique country homestead from the 1920s. It is situated on the banks of the Yarra River and offers a peaceful environment surrounded by nature. Guests can expect genuine and welcoming hospitality, creating an authentic family-like atmosphere.
HEALESVILLE HOTEL
WHAT TO VISIT AND DO IN THE JARRAH VALLEY
ZONZO ESTATE
Zanzo is a beautiful and trendy place where we had planned to have our wedding, but unfortunately it was canceled due to Covid. It is a winery that is popular among millennials in Melbourne, known for its picturesque setting and quality wines. They offer a variety of wines, including pinot noir and shiraz, and also have a menu inspired by Italian cuisine.
COLDSTREAM HILLS
Coldstream Hills is a renowned winery in the Yarra Valley, known for its picturesque cellar door and award-winning chardonnay and pinot noir. Guided tastings are available for $8 per person.
If you are interested in sampling wines, it is advisable to take a tour of the region. We suggest a gourmet tour that includes visits to the historic De Bortoli and Yering Station wineries, as well as lunch at Rochford. Additionally, you can visit Yarra Valley dairy and conclude your tour at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.
SAMPLE WORLD-CLASS WINES
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s oldest winemaking regions, and it is highly recommended to sample the incredible wines from the region if you visit.
The region is known for its wine estates and small-scale producers, set amidst rolling hills and verdant mountains, creating a stunning landscape in Victoria.
This part of the Yarra Valley is known for its chardonnay and pinot noir, as well as its shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. There are many tasting options available, making it possible for oenophiles and anyone else to spend an entire day sampling wines from different cellars.
We have visited a few wineries in the region in the past, and we have listed below some wineries that we highly recommend. These wineries not only produce excellent wine, but also offer stunning views and a great atmosphere.
OAKRIDGES is a family owned winery that offers award-winning wines and a restaurant that focuses on hyperlocal and sustainably sourced ingredients. They offer three-course menus starting at $85 per person and wine tastinfs for $15. Don’t forget the exquisite chardonnay!
TarraWarra is a renowned wine estate in Australia, known for their excellent pinot noir and chardonnay. The restaurant is highly regarded, with chef Mark Ebbels using locally sourced ingredients from the kitchen garden. Additionally, TarraWarra Museum of Art showcases modern art exhibitions.
In summary, one could potentially spend the entire day at this location.
THE BLACK SPUR
Driving the Black Spur is considered one of the best activities in the Yarra Valley.
The 36km stretch of road connecting Healesville to the town of Marysville is often covered in mist, with towering mountain ash and dense ferns lining the road, making it a popular and scenic drive in Victoria.
The drive includes multiple S-bends and takes approximately 1 hour to complete, allowing plenty of time to admire the beautiful surroundings.
There are several stopping points where you can explore the woods on foot, such as Fernshaw picnic ground and the Dom Dom saddle picnic area. One popular option is hiking the Monda track and experiencing the towering mountain ash trees.
In summary, it is recommended not to miss The Black Spur.
BALLOON FLIGHT OVER THE YARRA VALLEY
If you have $400 to spare, consider spending it on a morning hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Yarra Valley instead of buying clothes.
This unique and unforgettable experience offers panoramic views of the wine region, including vineyards, mountains, lakes, and mist. The feeling of floating in the tranquility of a slowly awakening world is truly awe-inspiring.
The valley serves as a natural amphitheatre, offering ideal flying conditions for a ballooning tour.
GETTING TO KNOW THE CITIES OF HILLSVILLE, WARBURTON AND MARYSVILLE
The Yarra Valley contains several historic towns and hamlets, including Healesville, Warburton, and Marysville.
Healesville offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, artisanal producers, art galleries, and up-market stores. The architecture and attractions in the town are worth visiting, including Habituel for coffee, Midnight for indoor plants and flowers, and Maroondah Dam for scenic views.
Warburton is similar to Healesville but has a more rustic feel. Dense forests surround it, and the upper Yarra River runs through it. While it may not have many fancy amenities, it compensates for its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a walk along the Yarra or swim in the summer. Another option is to drive up to the Mt. Donna Buang summit. Additionally, the region is home to Flying Apron, which is widely regarded as the best bakery.
Marysville, severely affected by the 2009 Black Friday fires, is gradually recovering. It is a picturesque town surrounded by dense Australian bush, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a break from urban life.
Visitors may consider planning their trip during the winter season to experience the transformation of Lake Mountain resort into a snowy wonderland or during Autumn to enjoy the vibrant colours of the tree-lined streets.
THE MYSTICAL REDWOODS OF WARBY
Warburton’s Redwood Forest has become a popular tourist destination in the region, attracting day-trippers from Melbourne to experience the enchanting environment. Visitors come to appreciate the natural beauty of the Redwood Forest and discover the intriguing tree art dispersed throughout the area.
In addition to the towering Sequoias, there are numerous natural beauty spots to appreciate, including the fascinating tree art scattered across the forest floor, the continuously flowing cement creek, and the early flow of the Yarra River.
This is our guide to the Redwood Forest in Warburton, which includes information on how to reach the location, activities to engage in during your visit, and respectful behavior to maintain towards this stunning natural environment.
THE HALESVILLE PRESERVE
Typically, we do not visit zoos as we believe in preserving animals’ natural habitats and conserving their environments. However, we make an exception for Healesville Sanctuary.
Healesville Sanctuary is a popular school holiday destination for Victorian children. It is an internationally renowned zoo that focuses on Australian fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
The Sanctuary features over 200 species spread out across the premises. Visitors are encouraged to explore the treetops of Koala Forest and Kangaroo Country for an up-close experience with iconic wildlife.
It is worth noting that while this attraction is primarily geared towards families with children, we have personally enjoyed our visits as adults.
A GIN AT FOUR PILLARS IN HALESVILLE
Healesville, a cosmopolitan place in Victoria, is home to one of the best distilleries, which is not surprising given the association between gin and hipster cool.
Four Pillars Distillery, located at the entrance of the village, is a modern gin distillery with an industrial warehouse vibe. They offer a gin-tasting experience with knowledgeable staff providing information about the Aussie, Rare, Changing Season, and Bloody Shiraz varieties included in the tasting paddle for $15 per person.
We ordered the moonshine cheese platter, which included Stone and Crow cheese made using water from the distillation process ($15). It was a good decision as the cheeses paired well with the gin paddle.
Visitors can observe the working distillery, which features portholes that provide a view of the two copper still named Wilma and Jude, offering a comprehensive understanding of the gin-making process.
A visit to Healesville is recommended to include a visit to Four Pillars.
THE VALLEY'S FINEST CHEESES AT YARRA VALLEY DAIRY
EXCELLENT CHOCOLATES AT THE YARRA VALLEY CHOCOLATIER
The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is a worthwhile destination for a day trip to the Yarra Valley.
Established in 2012, this family-owned chocolate offers a wide selection of high-quality chocolate products. The showroom is spacious and impressive, sure to delight any chocolate lover.
There are both free and paid chocolate tastings available. We suggest considering the option of a paid tasting session, which provides a comprehensive experience, including information on ingredients and techniques used in creating the chocolates.
If you prefer something else, you can relax and enjoy a house-made ice cream, which is a favourite of Mark.
LILYDALE TO WARBURTON CYCLE PATH
Cycling is a popular pastime in Melbourne, and the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail offers a peaceful and scenic route for those seeking a leisurely ride outside of the city.
The iconic trail is 40km long and passes through several pretty towns in the region, including Wandin, Woori Yallock, Seville, Launching Place, Yarra Junction, Wesburn, and Millgrove, before ending in Warby.
The trail passes through various landscapes, including vineyards, farmlands, and forests, with the mountains always visible in the distance. Additionally, remnants of former station platforms allow you to pause and capture a photo.
Certain sections are deemed more aesthetically pleasing, with the stretch between Seville and Yarra Junction being a personal preference.
The gentle slope makes it easily accessible for most people, although if you enjoy cycling occasionally like us, you may find your legs feeling quite tired by the end of the day.
Additionally, a few cafes are available for a pit stop, such as the renowned Cog Bike Cafe, where you can enjoy coffee and have your bike repaired, and the Seville Carriage Cafe.
THE DETAILS
The location is from Lilydale to Warburton.
The length is 38 kilometres one way.
The time required for this activity is approximately 3 hours, but it may vary depending on one’s fitness level.
The difficulty level of the grade is easy to moderate.
GO HIKING
According to our research, the Yarra Ranges offers some of the best hiking opportunities in Victoria.
The dense Australian bush in the region has a comforting effect, possibly due to the sweet scent, the famous call of the lyrebird, or the sound of rushing water. Hiking in this area has a positive impact on our well-being.
Here are some of our favourites.
Yarra River Trail
This 6km hike follows the Yarra River through the centre of Warburton, making it ideal for a day trip.
La La Falls
The 3.2km walk to La La Falls in Warburton is a popular and scenic route that passes through dense forest and showcases the well-known falls.
O’Shannassy Aqueduct trail
The 30km trail from East Warburton to the Don Valley is easy, extremely picturesque, and has multiple stop-off points for those looking for a shorter stroll.
Myrtle Gully Circuit
The moderate 10km hike meanders through Toolangi State Forest in the north of the Yarra Valley, showcasing the beauty of ancient myrtle and ferns.
Badgers Weir
Several short hikes that begin at Badgers Weir picnic ground, located 7km from Healesville, take you through ancient fern gullies and towering mountain ash trees. It provides a serene atmosphere to relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Donna Buang Mountain Peak
Embark on the region’s most demanding trek starting from Warburton, moving through Mt. Victoria, and culminating at the peak after roughly 15 km in around 6 hours. A forewarning: it’s challenging, ascending over 1,000m.
Sugarloaf Summit
Venture on an arduous 11km trek in Yarra Valley’s northern area. Despite the effort, the breathtaking panorama from Sugarloaf Summit makes it all worthwhile.
Trekking in Australia presents unique challenges, particularly during the summertime. Hikers must remain vigilant about bushfires, snakes, and the risk of dehydration.
Ensure you’re equipped: carry ample water and a first-aid kit, and always inform someone of your whereabouts. Before you set out, get informed about the fire situation in your hiking region.
TASTE LOCAL PRODUCTS AT REGIONAL FOOD MARKETS
One of the standout features of regional Victoria has to be its farm markets. And, in this regard, the Yarra Valley doesn’t disappoint with several top-notch markets that we highly recommend.
A notable focus here is on businesses and goods that are sustainable and eco-conscious. This not only bolsters the regional economy but is a practice we wholeheartedly endorse.
Healesville welcomes all every Saturday with its organic market located right in the heart of the town. Vendors from various regions present their offerings, ranging from fresh produce to delightful jams and preserves. A heads-up: many stalls prefer cash, so it’s wise to carry a good sum to grab all the tempting items.
Across Warburton, the summer months see the Warburton Summer Produce Market come alive every Friday afternoon by the picturesque Warby riverbank.
This community-driven market puts on display a selection of the finest local commodities. Think organic fruits and vegetables, handcrafted cheeses, local wines and ciders, artisanal bread, flavorful jams and pickles, freshly roasted coffee, and regional honey.
SWIMMING, CANOEING OR RAFTING ON THE JARRAH RIVER IN THE SUMMERTIME
During the summer, many locals in Warby enjoy spending hot days by the Yarra.
The mountain waters originating in the Upper Yarra Ranges provide relief from the typically hot Melbourne summers. Numerous swimming holes can be found along the river banks, making it convenient to find a suitable spot to cool down.
Here are some popular swimming holes that we enjoy.
The rocky embankment in the center of town has recently been refurbished.
The Warburton Golf Club is located in the western part of town, opposite to it.
There are several swimming holes located near the Warburton Caravan Park.
There is a large hole located to the east of the Warburton Redwood Bridge.
Alternatively, individuals have the option to find their own piece of riverside property on the Yarra River Walk.
If you don’t enjoy swimming, you can purchase a tube or lilo at the local hardware store and float down the river. This is, in our opinion, the most enjoyable way to spend summer in Warby.
Many people choose to begin their tube or lilo float at the Warburton Caravan Park and float down to Thomas Ave in the centre of town before repeating the process.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous activity, kayaking is highly recommended during the summer. The upper Yarra offers some of the best Grade 2-3 rapids near Melbourne, making it an ideal location for kayaking enthusiasts.
EATING AND DRINKING IN THE YARRA VALLEY
PREPARING FOR A YARRA VALLEY JOURNEY
Ahead of your Yarra Valley adventure, here are some vital insights:
The expanse of Yarra Valley mandates car travel; details to follow.
Fear not about connectivity. Most parts offer phone signals, ensuring uninterrupted music streaming and continuous social media updates.
Beware of bushfires during summers. It’s wise to monitor weather updates and avoid travel on high-risk days.
Winters might render mountain roads slippery. Drive cautiously.
Weekends witness a surge in visitors. For a quieter experience, consider a mid-week trip. This also combats the over tourism issues seen in places like Warburton Redwood Forest.
Intend to savour the wines? Opt for a guided tour. Remember, drunk driving is a serious offence in Australia.
DURATION OF STAY IN YARRA VALLEY?
While a day trip from Melbourne to Yarra Valley is feasible, it barely scratches the surface. To truly soak in the attractions, tastes, and sights, we advocate at least a 2-day stay. For an in-depth experience, rent a car and invest a week diving deep into what makes this Victoria’s gem.
OPTIMAL TIME TO EMBARK ON A YARRA VALLEY VISIT
Yarra Valley is a year-round delight.Summers offer solace with the cooling embrace of nearby mountains and the Yarra River, contrasting Melbourne’s swelter.
Winters? Think snow-capped trees and tobogganing fun at Donna Buang or Lake Mountain. It’s an ideal season to cozy up in a snug Airbnb, wine in hand, beside a roaring fire.
Spring and Autumn bestow stable weather, vibrant landscapes, and thinner crowds.
However, Autumn stands out for us. The golden-hued vineyards, the pervasive morning fog, the crisp air mixed with moisture, and the post-summer calmness infuse a unique charm into the Yarra Valley.
NAVIGATING THROUGH THE YARRA VALLEY
The best way to truly embrace the Yarra Valley’s attractions is through vehicular exploration. If you’re pressed for time, consider a day trip from Melbourne.
Here are some optimal modes:
BY CAR
Embrace the beauty of Yarra Valley with a memorable road trip departing from Melbourne. If you’re visiting or don’t have a vehicle, consider renting one.
DIRECTIONS TO YARRA VALLEY
Reaching Yarra Valley is straightforward, whether you’re driving or using public transit from Melbourne’s central zone.
BY CAR
Start on the Monash/Eastern/Eastlink freeway (M3) heading towards Ringwood. Then, transition onto the Maroondah Highway (B360), moving towards Lilydale. After Lilydale, keep left and continue on the Maroondah Highway. As you traverse, you’ll be greeted by vineyards leading you into Healesville.
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
For those relying on public transit, board the direct train from Melbourne to Lilydale, the line’s terminus. Afterwards, the 685 bus connects you to Healesville, departing every 30 to 45 minutes.
TRAVEL INSURANCE – SAFEGUARDING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ADVENTURE
A key tip: Never journey through Australia without adequate travel insurance, regardless of your travel expertise.
Australia is an adventure, and with it comes unpredictability – be it a trekking mishap, vehicular accidents, theft, or mislaid luggage. Insurance serves as your protection against unforeseen challenges!
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