yarra valley tourist spots

18 of the best things to do in the Yarra Valley

Amanda Woods

Travel Journalist

28 March 2023

World-class wines and craft beer, manicured gardens and national parks, hot air balloon rides and skydiving, there’s something for everyone when you follow the winding roads through the Yarra Valley.

It only takes an hour or so to drive from Melbourne to one of Australia’s best wine regions  and while some come for day trips to the cellar doors there are so many things to do in the Yarra Valley beyond enjoying a top drop.

Immerse yourself in the dense nature of the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn)

Life moves at a different pace in this special corner of the Victorian countryside where you can explore specialty shops and boutiques in the villages, visit art galleries and wildlife sanctuaries, and get a taste for local chocolate, cheese, tea and more. Here are some of the best things to do in the Yarra Valley.

Get active in nature

Get the blood pumping in that clean fresh air either on your own two feet or a little higher off the ground.

1. Take a hike

Whether you like to take it relatively easy or go hard there’s a Yarra Valley trail for you.

For more of a picnic and an easy stroll, the Badger Weir Picnic Area walk near Healesville is a 2.6-kilometre loop through trees and ferns to a shady picnic area, while the La La Falls walk is a moderate grade 3.2-kilometre return walk just outside of Warburton that takes you through tall Mountain Ash forest to a small waterfall.

The tranquil Lal Lal waterfall offers a perfect place to soak in the beauty of this landscape. (Image: Visit Victoria/Ben Savage)

For a family-friendly walk, the Riverside Tracks is a 5.5-kilometre loop from Warburton that takes you along the riverbank and over bridges. Dogs are also welcome on this one if they’re kept on a leash.

Discover the beauty of the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn)

If you’re after more of a challenge the 14.8-kilometre Mount Donna Buang Track starts on the banks of the Yarra River and then climbs 1100 metres up through Mountain Ash and myrtle trees into dense rainforest with huge tree ferns. This one is for experienced hikers who will need to bring enough food and water for the day.

2. Explore the enchanting gardens of Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley gardens are another way to enjoy the fresh air and thanks to the valley’s rich soils there are some spectacular gardens to see.

At the Alowyn Gardens at Yarra Glen you can visit seven gardens in one, including the formal parterre garden with its tightly clipped geometrical shapes, the edible garden and the forest garden, as well as walking through the wisteria archway.

When more than ten thousand lavender plants are in full bloom from late November until February the Warratina Lavender Farm  is one of the Yarra Valley’s most popular photo spots. But if you miss the summer spectacular you can still see Ploughman’s Blue lavender in the gardens throughout the year, as well as trying lavender scones in the Lavender Tea House.

Warratina Lavender Farm is one of the Yarra Valley’s signature destinations.

And from Boxing Day until the 18 th of April one of Australia’s best seasonal gardens, the Blue Lotus Water Garden , invites guests into their tropical-themed water garden where they can see Giant Amazon Waterlilies, the Kakadu Lagoon Native Waterlily display and a lot more in dozens of ponds and two lakes.

3. Hit the Rail Trail

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail runs all the way from Melbourne’s outer suburbs to the Yarra Valley and you can either do the whole thing or simply choose to walk or ride a section or two.

Go for a walk and explore the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn)

Following the historic broad-gauge railway line that closed in 1965, the trail travels through bushland and villages and thanks to its gentle gradient is nice and easy to ride a bike or walk along.

Cog Bikes Australia offers bike hire for adults and children and can drop off and collect bikes at various points along the trail.

Bike your way through the Yarra Valley and enjoy the views along the way. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn)

As the trail is 40 kilometres one way if you’re planning to do it all you should spend a night or two in the valley. You can see some of our top picks for Yarra Valley accommodation here.

And while the entire ‘Warby Trail’ is wheelchair accessible the 8.5-kilometre Yara Junction to Warburton is a mostly sealed section that travels through thick forest before finishing at the trail’s end.

4. Saddle up for a horse ride

Horse riding in the Yarra Valley isn’t just for people with experience. At Chum Creek Horseriding and Huts they have a horse for absolute beginners up to confident riders and can have you riding through the bush within minutes of getting into the saddle.

Explore the Yarra Valley like never before. (Image: Chum Creek Horseriding and Huts)

Options include a 2.5-hour trail ride that includes wine tasting in a mountain hut, and a three-day, two-night horse riding adventure with traditional Australian campfire meals and overnights in the Chum Creek Huts.

There are also one-hour experiences for younger riders starting at six years of age.

5. Float above in a hot air balloon

While hot air ballooning may not be the most strenuous of activities, as you’ll be getting up well before dawn, we’ll consider it part of a more active stay.

Hot air balloons are a beautiful sight in the Yarra Valley, and it’s all the more beautiful if you’re up there in the basket looking down.

Hot air ballooning is a unique experience not to be missed when visiting the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn)

The mountain ranges around the valley help to provide stable conditions at dawn, and as you float through the valley you can take in the vineyards, farmland and forests below.

6. Jump out of a plane

For a more adrenalin-fuelled time in the sky you can also skydive in the Yarra Valley. Tandem skydives from up to 15,000 feet are available for people 16 years and over (under 18s will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian).

See Melbourne and the bay in the distance before jumping out of a plane and freefalling for about 60 seconds. Then when your chute opens, you’ll have five minutes or so to slowly come back to earth and take in those views as only a skydiver can.

Get a culture fix

From internationally acclaimed artists to emerging local talent, the Yarra Valley has a lot to share with art lovers.

7. TarraWarra Museum of Art

Designed by acclaimed Australian architect Allan Powell the TarraWarra Museum of Art is a work of art in itself, with contours and colours that are heightened by the landscape around it.

Step inside those rammed earth walls and you’ll find modern and contemporary art exhibitions that can include paintings, sculptures and drawings from some of Australia’s most significant artists.

TarraWarra Museum of Art presents stimulating and innovative exhibitions. (Image: TarraWarra Estate)

Repeat guests may notice that as well as the art changing, the walls may have moved or changed colour since the last time they were there. And no visit is complete without a visit to Valhalla, Callum Morton’s installation that was originally created for the 52 nd Venice Biennale before being moved piece by piece to its new home in the Yarra Valley in 2016.

Enjoy the grounds of the TarraWarra Estate. (Image: Tourism Australia)

8. The Wurundjeri Walk

While Healesville Sanctuary is best known as a great place to see Australian animals it also has a special section where you can learn about the traditional custodians of the land.

Meet some of Victoria’s cutest wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary.

The Yarra Valley is home to the Wurundjeri people from the Kulin Nation, and the self-guided Wurundjeri Walk was created in consultation with a Wurundjeri elder and spiritual custodian of the land Murrundindi.

You’ll learn more about Wurundjeri elders past and present stories at Healesville Sanctuary. (Image: Cormac Hanrahan)

Visitors can listen to soundscapes of Wurundjeri elders past and present sharing stories, read plaques explaining the Wurundjeri perspectives of the plants along the walk, and sit in a dreaming place. On Sundays and public and school holidays you may even meet Murrundindi and hear his stories first-hand.

9. The Hubert Gallery of Art

When the new-look Hubert Estate opened in March 2022 it had a new cellar door and restaurant as well as the Yarra Valley’s latest art gallery. The Hubert Gallery of Art was established by Adam Knight and Gerry Ryan OAM and reflects their passion for Indigenous Australian art.

Browse, admire, and celebrate Indigenous art forged from the archives of Australian history.

The gallery shares works from more than 20 Indigenous communities and includes paintings, sculptures and Marebu (woven mats). The gallery is open seven days a week and found directly underneath the stylish cellar door so it’s easy to visit as part of a wine tasting or on its own.

10. YAVA Gallery & Arts Hub

The community face of Yarra Valley arts, the YAVA Gallery & Arts Hub is a non-profit, volunteer-based organisation where artists and art lovers can come together in Healesville. As well as hosting exhibitions by local, national and international artists the YAVA holds workshops and live events from the visual arts to music, poetry, theatre and filmmaking.

11. Take a ride on Puffing Billy

For more than 120 years  Puffing Billy has puffed its way along the same track from Belgrave up to Emerald and along to Gembrook. While it used to carry people, livestock and food up to the communities that lived in the hills, these days it’s a fun day out for all the family, including four-legged friends on selected pet-friendly days.

Hopping on board the Puffy Billy train is another way to explore the lovely nature of the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Emily Godfrey)

Travel through pristine forests and fern gullies, and rumble across historic timber trestle bridges all while your legs hang over the edge of the open side carriages. If you’d prefer more of a first-class experience you can also book a Steam & Cuisine trip that includes a three-course meal under the pressed metal ceilings of the first-class carriage.

Watch stunning views from your seat and don’t forget to get your camera out. (Image: Puffy Billy)

Taste the Yarra Valley

The countryside that produces world-class wine has some more tasty treats up its sleeve.

12. Four Pillars gin distillery

One of Australia’s top craft spirits Four Pillars has a long list of international gold and best gin awards to its name. Book ahead to secure a spot at one of the tastings and masterclasses in their Yarra Valley distillery where you can get to know the trademark botanicals behind their signature and limited-edition gins.

Since its launch in 2013, Four Pillars has become Australia’s most famous spirit. (Image: Wine Victoria)

And thanks to their alcohol-free Bandwagon range the designated driver will also get to enjoy a cocktail of botanical flavours without needing to worry about watching their drinks.

Sip on gin and enjoy a range of tastes at Four Pillars. (Image: Wine Victoria/Andrew Poole)

13. Craft beers

Explore the Yara Valley brewery scene with a visit to some of the area’s microbreweries. At Matilda Bay Brewery you can learn about the sustainable side of their beer-making on a brewery tour and taste the freshest beer from the stainless-steel tanks. Taste your way through a paddle of beer and cider at the Coldstream Brewery where you can also tuck into a pub-style lunch with parmas, pizzas and more.

After starting as a hobby the Hop Hen Brewery is now a family-owned small brewery in Lilydale where 100% of the production is conducted in-house. While Watts River Brewing brings two young families together to create a brewery and cellar door in Healesville.

14. Cheese tasting

Wine and cheese are a winning combination and in the Yarra Valley, you can taste both at the source. At the Yarra Valley Dairy fresh cow milk from Yarra Valley farms and goat milk from the neighbouring region of Mansfield are used to create a range inspired by the farmhouse cheeses of France and Italy.

Sample a range of fresh cow and goat milk cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy. (Image: Wine Victoria)

Choose a Premium Tasting package to try their entire range of handmade cow and goat milk cheese, or opt for a cheese plate with local freshly baked bread and charcuterie.

15. Chocolate and ice cream

The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery makes more than 400 different chocolate products and thanks to the large viewing windows you can watch their chocolatiers at work before enjoying a free chocolate tasting.

Some of the edible art on offer at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Learn how to make your own chocolate in one of their hands-on classes, or let the kids lick their fingers in the Junior Chocolatiers class for six-to-12-year-olds.

Chocolate is a perfect excuse to stop at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. (Image: Visit Victoria/Roberto Seba)

Then when it’s time to burn off all of that sugar the kids can play on the lawns, gardens, orchards and wetlands, or you can simply relax with a bite to eat in the all-day café.

The expansive grounds of the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. (Image: Tourism Australia)

16. Cherry picking

Eat cherries right off the tree during the cherry-picking session at Cherry Hill Orchards. As well as eating all of the cherries you can in a two-hour session you can also buy your handpicked cherries by the kilo to take home.

Try your hand at cherry-picking at Cherry Hill Orchards. (Image: Supplied)

BYO picnic to go with your cherry feast or take advantage of the wood-fired pizza and wine tastings from Rochford wines at the Coldstream orchard, and a rotating roster of food trucks at the Wandin orchard.

Enjoy your loot with a BYO picnic at Cherry Hill Orchards. (Image: Supplied)

17. Tea time

Take a peek behind the tea-making scenes at the Yarra Valley Tea Company . This family-owned company in Coldstream has a focus on organic and ethical tea and uses the only certified green tea grown in Australia. At the factory, you can watch the team blending and packaging the tea through a public viewing window and pick up some new tea in the tea emporium.

18. Smell the coffee

While you could have a single coffee with a delicious pastry at the Silva Coffee Roasters coffee bar, we say it’s even better to go for the coffee-tasting flight. As well as being able to try their latest selections you’ll learn all about the people and stories behind the beans. Take a seat at the bar or relax in the indoor and outdoor seating and let the flights come to you.

For more insider tips and advice, read our ultimate travel guide to Yarra Valley.

Amanda Woods is a travel writer based in New England high country in NSW. She’s travelled from Antarctica to the Arctic and loves to inspire people to get out and explore this big beautiful world of ours. She has a passion for regenerative, sustainable and mindful travel and has some big Australian travel dreams for the future.

LEAVE YOUR COMMENT

Cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Comments (2)

Beautiful exploration of a place a love dearly – all the creative souls

Awesome article!

You might also like

The 9 best restaurants in the Dandenong Ranges

Come for the greenery, stay for the food, here’s how to plot a culinary itinerary around the Dandenong Ranges. The Dandenong Ranges is well-known a...

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

Australia Recommends 2024

Come and Say G'day

G'day, the short film

Discover your Australia

Travel videos

Deals and offers

Australian Capital Territory

New South Wales

Northern Territory

South Australia

Western Australia

External Territories

The Whitsundays

Mornington Peninsula

Port Douglas

Ningaloo Reef

Airlie Beach

Kangaroo Island

Rottnest Island

Hamilton Island

Lord Howe Island

Tiwi Islands

Phillip Island

Bruny Island

Margaret River

Barossa Valley

The Grampians

Hunter Valley

McLaren Vale

Glass House Mountains

Alice Springs

Uluru and Kata Tjuta

The Kimberley

Flinders Ranges

Kakadu National Park

Eyre Peninsula

Karijini National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Blue Mountains

Daintree Rainforest

Great Ocean Road

Purnululu National Park

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Litchfield National Park

Aboriginal experiences

Arts and culture

Festivals and events

Food and drink

Adventure and sports

Walks and hikes

Road trips and drives

Beaches and islands

Nature and national parks

Eco-friendly travel

Health and wellness

Family travel

Family destinations

Family road trips

Backpacking

Work and holiday

Beginner's guide

Accessible travel

Planning tips

Trip planner

Australian budget guide

Itinerary planner

Find a travel agent

Find accommodation

Find transport

Visitor information centres

Deals and travel packages

Visa and entry requirements FAQ

Customs and biosecurity

Working Holiday Maker visas

Facts about Australia

Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie

People and culture

Health and safety FAQ

Cities, states & territories

Iconic places and attractions

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Seasonal travel

Events and festivals

School holidays

Public holidays

How to get to Australia's most iconic cities

How long do I need for my trip to Australia?

How to travel around Australia

Guide to driving in Australia

How to hire a car or campervan

How to plan a family road trip

How to plan an outback road trip

3 days in the Yarra Valley

Think Australia is all beaches? Think again. Uncover Australia’s hidden treasures on an inland road trip through Victoria’s picturesque Yarra Valley, enjoying sublime local wines, chocolate and art along the way.

By Alissa Jenkins

Far from the beaches that Australia is renowned for, this sensory road trip begins in  Melbourne  but swiftly ventures into charming countryside, meandering past local food producers and some of Victoria’s most celebrated wineries, before finishing in Marysville, surrounded by forests and waterfalls.

What to expect

• Drop in at Victoria’s finest wineries
• Take a sunrise hot air balloon flight
• See native Australian wildlife up close
• Time: 3 days
• Distance: 150 kilometres (93 miles)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Melbourne
• Price: $$$$

Day 1: Melbourne to Olinda

William Ricketts Sanctuary, Olinda, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Morning From Melbourne , it’s a one-hour drive east along the M1 highway and Mt Dandenong Tourist Road to the charming alpine village of Olinda. Perched high in the Dandenong Ranges, Olinda is best known for its striking gardens that change with every season. Stretch your legs with a wander through the  Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden , featuring thousands of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and daffodils, or visit the  William Ricketts Sanctuary to find fascinating sculptures hidden amid the trees. Then indulge in a sweet treat at  Only Mine Chocolate Factory , located in the heart of town, where you can watch chocolatiers create masterful morsels. Or take a short detour to the neighbouring town of Sassafras for a Devonshire tea at the quaint  Miss Marple's Tearoom – an English Tudor-style cottage inspired by Agatha Christie.

Afternoon Spend the afternoon moseying around the many antique and specialist stores in Sassafras, or return to Olinda to explore the local art galleries and studios, including  Touchstone Craft Gallery , which sells artworks by more than 250 Australian craftspeople. If you have tiny travellers in tow, around the corner is  Geppetto’s Workshop , stocked with a beautiful array of wooden toys and puppets, games and puzzles.

Then retire to  The Loft in the Mill , a replica 19th-century bluestone English flour mill and award-winning boutique hotel, with nine grand guestrooms, each with log fires and double spa baths.

Day 2: Olinda to Healesville

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, Victoria © Roberto Seba

Morning Pack your camera for a day of memorable moments, beginning with a visit to the  Healesville Sanctuary wildlife park, 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of Olinda. With more than 200 species of native animals and birdlife, you can spy reclusive platypus, feisty Tasmanian devils, or take a treetop boardwalk to see koalas.

Afternoon Appreciate both local art and wine at the  TarraWarra Museum of Art , where you can sample award-winning pinot noir and chardonnay along with seasonal exhibitions of contemporary art. Continue your wine tasting at the many revered cellar doors that surround Healesville, including  Domaine Chandon , famed for its cool-climate sparkling. Here you can meet with winemakers, tour the property and learn how the history of French Champagne teams with Australian expertise.

Other leading local wine producers include  Oakridge Wines and  Giant Steps , both with impressive restaurants and fantastic cellar doors, as well as the more contemporary  Innocent Bystander . For those who prefer spirits, visit  Four Pillars Distillery and taste-test their internationally acclaimed gin.

Sweet tooth? Get your sugar fix from the  Yarra Valley Chocolaterie , where you can watch European chocolatiers craft a range of chocolate products – and enjoy free tastings.

For dinner, reserve a table at  Eleonore’s Restaurant at  Chateau Yering Hotel and work your way through the modern Australian fine-dining menu, paired with local wine. The best part? You can stay overnight at this five-star heritage homestead, with 32 suites overlooking 250 acres of gardens and sweeping valley views.

Day 3: Healesville to Marysville

Steavenson Falls, Marysville, Victoria © Robert Blackburn

Morning Begin your last day in style with a  sunrise hot air balloon flight over the patchwork of vineyards, farmland and forest that you’ve covered. After taking in panoramic views of the valley, return to Earth for a champagne breakfast at  Balgownie Estate Vineyard , featuring some of the finest local produce.

Then it’s time to explore nearby  Yarra Glen , dotted with farm gates and other food producers. Discover the area’s agricultural roots at  Gulf Station , Australia's oldest pioneer farm precinct, open to the public on the first Thursday of each month. Here you can see working horses, sheep shearing, butter made in traditional churns and woodwork without power tools. Stop for a hearty lunch at the heritage-listed  Yarra Valley Grand Hotel , before stocking up on fresh artisan cheeses made from both cows and goats milk, from the popular  Yarra Valley Dairy .

Afternoon Enjoy the scenic one-hour drive northwest to Marysville, surrounded by impressive waterfalls, lush forest and popular walking trails. Among them is the four-kilometre (2.5-mile)  Cumberland Walk , which offers a glimpse into the region’s gold and logging history. Along the way you’ll encounter the gargantuan ‘Big Tree’ – a 400-year-old, 85-metre (279-foot) eucalypt. Another local landmark to visit is  Steavenson Falls – its 84-metre (275-foot) plummet marks it as one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls.

Then unwind at  Saladin Lodge , a tranquil retreat set on 68 lakefront acres, with historic roots but modern accommodation, complete with guest library and cosy log fires.

Explore more nearby

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience.  Find out more . By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

• New Zealand (English)
• United States (English)
• Canada (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• India (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Singapore (English)
• Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
• Deutschland (Deutsch)
• France (Français)
• Italia (Italiano)
• 中国大陆 (简体中文)

*Product Disclaimer:  Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.

The 13 Best Things To Do in the Yarra Valley

• Christopher Aiello
• August 23, 2021

The allure of tall mountain ash lining the roads, the warm, cozy winters enjoying locally made wines to the adventurous sunrise mission in a hot air balloon, we know all too well as Melbournians the best things to do in the yarra valley. 

Famed for the rolling hills of the countryside wineries and cellar doors, a vibrant mix of flora and fauna plantations and the most epic views from high in the sky, we’ve made sure to include all of the most incredible things to do in the picturesque Yarra Valley in this guide.

Family fun days can be spent admiring the collection of Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, or the adventurous can explore the region’s towns like Marysville & Warburton.

The waterfalls of the region come as a surprise to many given the vast countryside and vineyards throughout. There’s something for everyone in the Yarra Valley. 

Only one hours drive from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley, the best wineries of the Yarra Valley provide the perfect day trip from Melbourne if you are time limited.

Explore more of Victoria using the Day Trips from Melbourne to help you plan more amazing adventures on your trip

What is the Yarra Valley?

Basically, aside from the Mornington Peninsula it is one of Victoria’s premier cold climate  wine growing regions that boats globally recognised wines such as De Bortoli, Oakridge and Yering Station. 

However with over 80 wineries in the Yarra Valley it’s not hard to get caught up trying to hit them all, which is why we created a short and sweet list of the top Yarra Valley wineries selection.

Where is the Yarra Valley?

One hours drive from Melbourne CBD, the Yarra Valley is Metropolitan Melbourne’s far North Eastern region that encompasses townships like Warburton, Healesville & Marysville.

Not to be confused with the Dandenong Ranges, the Yarra Valley boasts one of the more impressive rivers of the entire state, the Yarra River, affectionately known as the ‘Yarra’. It runs down stream for approximately 60 km ‘as the crow flies’ from far eastern Victoria until the river mouth into Port Phillip bay within the city. 

The traditional custodians of the land, the Wurundjeri people of Victoria have lived here prior to European settlement for 35,000 years and their land extends far north to the Great Dividing Range, Mt. baw baw to the east, Mordialloc creek to the south and west to Weribee river. 

When to visit the Yarra Valley

The best time of year to visit the Yarra Valley depends on what you’re going there for. If it’s the snow mountains then the best time of year is between the months of June- September when it’s freshest. 

The warm summer months sitting on a deck enjoying a delicious drip of wine is best enjoyed over the Christmas period from December through to March, being aware of school holiday peak times and public holidays, ordinarily the region can get quite busy so booking ahead of time is crucial. 

If you’re doing a self-drive and you plan on staying overnight in the Yarra Valley we recommend finding your accommodation ahead of time and securing the best overnight stays at the most competitive prices in the Yarra Valley.

How to get to the Yarra Valley – Melbourne to the Yarra

If you’re coming in from Melbourne then take the Eastern Freeway/Eastlink (M3) all the way until you hit Ringwood, turn left onto Maroondah highway until you reach Lilydale.

Once here, veer left towards Coldstream which effectively begins the entry into the Yarra Valley. 

Going by car

It seems a bit snobbish but we almost never use public transport. Reason being we enjoy having the luxury of being able to plan our own day on our own schedule.

If you’re driving into the Yarra Valley from Melbourne we recommend picking up a car from these guys who have some of the most competitive prices on the market .

Coming from the Airport

If you’re flying into Melbourne and making your way straight to the Yarra Valley then it makes perfect sense to pick up your rental car from the Airport and waste no time figuring out the logistics! We recommend going with these legends here for the most affordable prices!

If you’re coming from the Dandenong Ranges the easiest way to get here is to take Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and head north on Swansea road to avoid all the zig zagging nature of the hills.

How long do I need in the Yarra Valley?

If you plan on ticking off all of these epic yarra valley attractions in our guide below then you will want to dedicate 5 days to the region.

You are free to pick and choose these experiences below and create smaller itineraries that span 2-4 days, bearing in mind you get your experiences booked beforehand to maximise your time and plan your trip out well. 

Similarly if you’re planning a trip to the Dandenong Ranges we would also recommend exploring the hills for 5 days also.

Yarra Valley One-day itinerary

• Drive from the Dandenong Ranges or stay up here the night before
• Morning sunrise flight in a hot air balloon
• Breakfast in Healesville at Yarra Valley harvest
• Mid-morning gin session at 4 pillars
• Drive up to Stevensons falls in Marysville via the Black Spur
• Mid-afternoon wine tasting tour at Boat O’Craigo
• End the day at Healesville Sanctuary

Where should I stay in the Yarra Valley

There are both budget and higher end choices in the ranges, as well as choosing from the more modern homes to the vintage style cottages of old days.

Cottages $$$ – If you want to feel completely comfortable and at home during your stay here then Forget me Not is the perfect weekend away, complete with an outdoor pool, gardens and your very own private lake and dock in the backyard of the valley.

A cheaper option of the two cottages is Two truffles cottages ; a modern take on the classic cottage thats comes an internal fireplace, very large indoor dining, a spa and wrap around deck.

Keep your budget low by choosing to stay at the Healesville hotel in the heart of Healesville. This older generation hotel still has the charm of the 1900’s whilst providing guests with comfy and a cheap alternative.

13 Incredible Things to do in the Yarra Valley  

Yarra Valley Day trip ideas

It goes without saying that the Yarra Valley’s draw card is above all…its wineries. The 170 year old legacy of Victoria’s oldest wine making region surpasses all pre-conceptions and imagination one might have as to the vastness of the land. 

Unfortunately unless you travel here exclusively for wine tasting you will find it very difficult to hit every single winery, so we’ve compiled a short list of the best wineries of the Yarra Valley.

Balgownie Estate Winery

This premier 30 hectare winery boasts 70 rooms and suites for wine wasting in the heart of the region. It has both a pop-up cellar door as well as a contemporary Australian restaurant that is currently under construction.

Having won multiple awards for their accommodation, enjoy a selection of 5 star wines including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.

Of course we couldn’t not include this famed winery on the list of the wineries in the beautiful yarra valley.

Their story begins in the northern regions of Italy, which has spanned 90 years of wine making till now where the 3rd generation of De Bortoli wine makers run one of the Valley’s most impressive wineries inlcuding Cabernet Sauvignon.

This tour has over 200, 5 star reviews and is without a doubt the best winery tour in the Yarra Valley. Jump on one of their wine tastings to get a taste of the valley.

Zonzo Estate

I have been to a handful of weddings at Zonzo and it is the most spectacular winery you can imagine. The Italian inspired food offering complete with a beautiful glass house interior makes for the perfect evening of wines. 

TarraWarra estate

Exceptional manufacturers of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay – TarraWarra’s restaurant is highly recommended with head Chef Mark Ebble’s focussing on locally sourced ingredients and dishes that make for a fantastic afternoon in the Yarra Valley.

Four pillars Gin

Founded in 2013 the award winning Australian Gin Distillery makes a variety of different Gins, such as the world’s only Gin made to suit a Negroni. Operating out of Healesville and now a gin bar running out of Sydney, a visit to Four Pillars Gin is one of the best things to do in the Yarra Ranges.

If you’ve never heard of Domaine Chandon then you’re either not a champagne drinker or or a reforming alcoholic. In either case you should do yourself a favour when you visit Yarra Valley and head to this french inspired winery that serves only the best bubbly on tap this side of town.

The best way to enjoy an afternoon at Domaine winery is to sit in the glowing vineyards with incredible views of Yarra Glen

Yarra Valley Attractions

Drive the black spur.

If you have never driven along the Black Spur in Victoria’s east then you are missing out! Pre-covid we managed to sneak out here for the weekend and drove up and down this gorgeous mountain-ash lined forest. 

The Black Spur runs for 36 km between the townships of Healesville and Marysville and will take 1 hour to complete. We drove through here earlier in the year and shared the photos over on our Instagram page of the towering mountain ash trees that line the road.

There’s a number of stop off points along the way that permit you to park your car on the side and walk through the Fernshaw Picnic ground , or the Dom Dom Saddle picnic area.

The towering mountain ash are a stunning scenic attraction that are not far from Steavenson falls and mt Donna Buang summit.

If you’ve never been to the Yarra Valley then we highly recommend purchasing your tour here and take the worry out of seeing the best things to see and do in the Yarra Valley

Sunrise hot air balloon ride

A once in a lifetime opportunity to fly high across the skies of the picturesque Yarra Valley at the break of dawn, our personal recommendation and one of the best things to do in the Yarra Valley.

This beautiful hot air balloon ride is the only provider in Victoria to be carbon neutral and the perfect gift for your loved one and the perfect answer if you’re wondering what to do in the Yarra Valley.

If you feel like getting a little tipsy in the sky then you can add on a champagne breakfast for your 1.5 hour flight over the Balgownie Estate. 

The valley is often filled with low lying mist that sweeps across the vineyards that makes for the perfect backdrop at 6:15 in the morning. 

Yarra Valley Dairy

Family owned and run, Yarra Valley Dairy have been producing and cultivating dairy into cheese since 1994 and produce some of the finest artisan cheeses this side of the state. Both a cheese factory and cheese shop are on site for visitors to browse with opening hours 1030 am till 5pm.

Explore the Yarra ranges

The Yarra Ranges is one of many national parks located in the far east of the state and is the beginning of the Yarra River that winds along inland Victoria eventually dumping into Port Phillip Bay.

On the far eastern edge of the national park on the corner of nine mile road and road 11 is where you will find the upper Yarra river.

Healesville, Warburton & Marysville

The three most populous towns in eastern Victoria form a triangle on a map and make for the perfect places to stop and explore in your Yarra Valley day trip.

Healesville is a low-key country town famed for being the gateway to the best wineries in the yarra valley, a quaint town that’s often used as a bypass township for access to Lake Mountain alpine resort during the winter months in Victoria. 

Start the day off correctly with a coffee to go (and stay) at Habituel for the stunningYarra Valley’s most freshly baked breads and pastries baked daily on-site. 

If you’re looking for things to do in Healesville we suggest heading into Innocent Bystander on maroondah Highway for a culinary delight and sensational wine experience. Their wines are second to none and export both regional and metropolitan retailers for purchase. 

Ending the day at Healesville Sanctuary makes for the perfect way to end your itinerary on a day trip to the Yarra Valley. 

Read Next > The Yarra Valley is only a drop in the ocean of all the amazing places to visit from Melbourne

Warburton  

An easy 90 minute drive from Melbourne and a perfect escape from the city, Warburton is well hidden and far out enough that you leave the hustle and bustle of the CBD in exchange for mountainous sequoia trees and an old charm feel of the town.

Being local Melbournians we had previously been to the Redwoods years ago and to this day it’s still one of our favourite things to to in the Yarra Valley.

Mount Donna Buang is 1 hour and 43 drive from Melbourne but a 22 minute ascent from the foothills of Warburton.

It is the closest snowfield from the city without heading further north east into Hotham or Buller.

Fear not however, there still is a fair share of cute bakeries, cafes and restaurants without attracting the crowds like the Mornington Peninsula. 

Devastating Black Friday bushfires in 2009 saw Marysville on the brink of complete destruction, yet it has surpassed all notion and completely recovered to its former glory, seeing thousands of visitors each year to explore the Yarra Valley attractions, such as Stevensons Falls and numerous mild to difficult hiking trails. 

We recommend staying overnight in the Valley and these are some of the most budget friendly places at the most competitive prices .

Warburton RedWood Forest

Officially the Cement Creek RedWood forest, this enchantingly beautiful Sequoia forest is one of the best things to do in the Yarra Valley by far, conveniently nestled in the township of Warburton. 

From here you can find the beginnings of the Yarra River and Cement Creek, but what separates this Redwood forest from the redwood in the Great Otways is the tree art that is sprinkled throughout the forest.

Go for a short hike along the loops around the forest, following the creek that runs through.

This perfect little day trip from Melbourne shouldn’t take you more than 45 minutes to an hour, spending time admiring the Sequoias from all different angles with your camera.

Access can be a little confusing but the entry is via Cement creek rd off Woods point road north of the township.

The morning light is the best time to get the most incredible pictures of the Redwood forest so having accommodation close to the forest is essential to avoiding the crowds and being the only ones there.

Booking through these guys is the best way to avoid the crowds and we cannot recommend these stays enough!

Visit native wildlife at Healesville

Trust us, we’re not normally the caged animal kind of folk, but Healesville Sanctuary (part of the Zoos Victoria group) are dedicated to fighting extinction of Australia’s wildlife species, conservation efforts and public education. 

Hopefully you’re not too tanked from spending an entire day at the glorious Yarra Valley wineries otherwise you would be missing out on the adorable creatures here!

A top yarra valley attraction by far, visitors travel long distances to be able to get up close and personal with their favourite aussie animals, including Kangaroos, Koalas, Platypus and Dingoes.. many of whom whose species has suffered habitat loss and destruction, particularly during the 2019-2020 summer bushfires season in Eastern Australia.

Adults start around $40 per person with the chance to add on an animal encounter experience for an additional cost. 

It’s personally one of our favourite Yarra Valley attractions and we come here everytime we visit because we both love to support organisations making a difference, hence spending a day at Healesville Sanctuary is highly recommended.

Steavensons Falls – the hidden waterfall of the east

We’ll be honest with you, we didn’t actually know this waterfall existed! We had so much fun exploring the waterfalls of the great ocean road that we forgot about the rest!

This 84 metre long waterfall isn’t a single drop waterfall..so it’s not the highest of them all, but is one of the longest by distance. 

From the carpark the walk to the top of the viewpoint is in total around 700m, but only 350 of those to the first viewpoint which is the best bay far if you ask us. 

One of the ultimate things to do in the stunning Yarra valley is to take the Tree fern gully trail walk from the heart of Marysville town to the base of the falls, a 6.8km round trip. 

To get here, simply drive 3km down falls road to the car park at the base and hike up the hill until you reach the first viewpoint. 

Lake Mountain

The cross country ski fields of Lake Mountain located north east of Marysville is popular for both tobogganing and cross-country ski goers during the winter months.

Lake Mountain the most popular ski resort in Victoria given its proximity to the Yarra Valley and less of a drive than Mount Buller and Hotham respectively.

The Black Spur drive will take you most of the way there, passing by through Marysville and Stevensons falls before taking Lake Mountain road to the entrance of the ski mountain.

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice-Creamery

Family owned and operated since 2012 in the heart of wine country, Yarra Valley chocolaterie and Ice Creamery is hands-down the most delicious afternoon pit-stop in the Valley.

This outstanding attraction in the Yarra Valley is known for their variety of handcrafted chocolates capable of satisfying even the pickiest of sweet tooths; they even have dairy free Chocolate-perfect for us!

The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice creamery is next level, with over 30 flavours of dairy milk options and vegan sorbets, you cannot visit the region without visiting the most delicious Yarra Valley tourist attraction. 

The best part about enjoying the wonderful sweets here is that the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice-creamery is a part of the Cocoa Horizons program, which supports farmers and producers of cocoa ensuring it is sustainably sourced and supports a wide range of ethical responsibilities globally. 

Getting hungry? Have a look at this best selling tour through the Yarra Valley and taste the very best that the Valley has to offer with this Full day gourmet tour with lunch!

Best restaurants in the Yarra Valley

This French style patisserie, The Flying Apron opened in 2016 by French trained staff that has brought the tastes and smells of the French countryside to the Yarra Valley.

Our personal favourites are of course the sweets; their roasted cashew bar & spiced peach frangipane tarts are to die for. 

Eat in or take away, don’t forget to try their roasted vegetable pastries and the roasted mushroom  cauliflower pies!

Where : 2874 Warburton hwy, Wesburn VIC

Innocent Bystander

The local millennial hideout over the past 15 years serving up incredible Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This Healesville institution has been serving up fresh Neapolitan style pizza used with locally sourced ingredients from the Yarra Valley, as well as an Hispanic mix of both Paella & Tapas.

This eclectic combination of internationalism makes Innocent Bystander one of the best places to visit in the Yarra Valley and a top attraction to the Yarra Valley. 

Mary Eats Cake

The very best in high tea in the yarra ranges national park located in Montrose, stands on the success of the original Brunswick store back in 2017.

For the fluffiest scones you ever put in your mouth, to delicious tea infused cakes and assortments, Mary Eats Cake is a mere 9kms from the border of the Yarra Valley and perfect for a day out of the region.

The Stables at Stones

Head Chef Hugh Davidson has collaborated with the best in the industry to produce the finest quality food in the Yarra Valley.

The rustic red-brick exterior invites guest in and revelas an 1800 century style building that was once used as a stablehand quarters of Castellaville (former bustling farming community).

The seasonal menu now servers a variety of locally sourced produce and ingredients to make even the most fickle of taste buds satisfied.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Chris & Laura

Australian and Canadian freelance photographers & storytellers addicted to travel,  inspiring you to travel the world.

27 Best Places to Visit in Australia 2023

12 Best Things to do in Uluru (2023 Guide)

Table of contents, related posts.

EPIC guide to hiking in the Grampians national park

Dominating the Wimmera region of north west Victoria lies the Grampians national park; home to Victoria’s fourth largest mountain range that’s known for its incredible sunsets and overhang cliff faces.

Australia Travel Tips & Destination Guide (2023)

31 Incredible Things To Do On The Great Ocean Road (UPDATED 2023)

Come for a drive along Australia’s most scenic roads and explore the BEST things to do on the Great Ocean Road in 2023

Epic road trip through the Limestone Coast in South Australia (updated 2023)

23 unmissable things to do in the Yarra Valley & surrounds

Looking for things to do in the Yarra Valley? Located just an hour from Melbourne, this region is renowned for its food and wine scene. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip – and there’s certainly enough to do to extend your trip, if you fancy.

Here’s some other things to do in the Yarra Valley and surrounding region.

Victoria is not a big state by any means, but there is so much packed into it. And it doesn’t take long to get from Melbourne, to somewhere equally as interesting.

At just over an hour’s drive from the heart of the city, the Yarra Valley is the perfect destination for a city break .

The region is best known for its wine, with some world-famous brands firmly established in this part of the state.

If you don’t drink or simply don’t like wine, don’t worry. There’s plenty of other things to do in the Yarra Valley.

Seek thrills, explore some gorgeous nature, take a scenic road trip and stuff yourself full of delicious food.

This is just a small part of what’s on offer in the Yarra Valley and its immediate surrounds. Let’s explore.

If you’re in the area and fancy extending your trip, I recommend checking out things to do in the Dandenong Ranges .

See other ideas for a weekend getaway from Melbourne .

Top things to do in the Yarra Valley

This post forms part of my guide to the best places to visit in Victoria . For more, check out this Melbourne itinerary (written by a local) and discover the best neighbourhoods to explore while you’re there. And see my other content on Victoria for more travel inspiration.

Need a set of wheels to for your trip to the Yarra Valley?

Get Around Quickly

Where to stay in the Yarra Valley

Things to do in the yarra valley.

1. Find furry friends at Healesville Sanctuary

This is one of the best things to do in the Yarra Valley for non-drinkers.

Healesville Sanctuary is where to go to see many types of Australian animals. Kangaroos, wombats, platypus, echidnas, all kinds of birds and reptiles.

Many of the animals in this sanctuary have been injured in the wild and are often re-released, upon on their recovery.

In some circumstances, they’re unable to be re-wilded. The sanctuary provides them with a home that’s as close to their natural habitat as possible.

↠ RELATED: THE BEST BOOKS ABOUT AUSTRALIA

One real boon of the sanctuary is that you can book close encounters with several of its inhabitants.

And on Sundays, you can hear Wurundjeri Elder Murrundindi share the cultural stories of his land.

You’d probably need at least a couple of hours to do the sanctuary justice. It’s a great way to entertain the kids on a day trip to the Yarra Valley.

If you’re childfree, your best bet is to rock up first thing in the morning, or early afternoon to avoid the crowds.

And save time by booking your ticket in advance, online.

2. & explore Healesville

Healesville is the main town of the Yarra Valley and contains many of the region’s top attractions.

It’s a food and wine hub and the shopping is pretty fantastic too, especially the op shopping (at thrift or charity stores).

For beers, check out Matilda Bay Brewing and Watts River Brewing . Nearby Hargreaves Hill and Coldstream Brewery are also worth a visit, Coldstream alone for the entertaining statue out the front.

For a meal in town, head to Innocent Bystander or drop into Willow & Jackson for lunch. Stock up on produce at Kitchen & Butcher and explore the wines and wares at Barrique Wine Store .

For something fancy, book a table at TarraWarra Estate .

And as a bibliophile, it would be remiss of me not to mention Verso Books . Always make a point of popping in when I’m in town and buying a book or five.

Discover other small towns in Victoria worth visiting .

3. Drink all the wine on a wine tour

Unsurprisingly, this is one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley. It is one of Victoria’s premier wine regions, so makes the sense.

You have the option of:

• self-driving to wineries (with a designated driver of course)
• jumping on an organised tour
• or hiring a private driver .

Tours usually include stops to other Yarra Valley attractions, along with wineries.

Book onto a Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne:

If you’re self driving, I recommend popping into Long Gully Estate , which is just outside of Healesville and has the most delicious port.

Or head to Blueberry Winery , where all the wines are made with – you guessed it – blueberries.

Soumah Wines specialise in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, along with Italian wines. If you’re a fan of Italian varieties, I recommend visiting the King Valley to tour its ‘Prosecco Road’.

Noting a lot of the bigger wineries charge for a tasting, but this is often included in the price if you end up buying a bottle.

4. & take your pooch along with you

Victoria is probably the most dog crazy state in Australia and there’s plenty of pooch-friendly places to visit in the Yarra Valley.

Wineries that allow your furriest friend to visit include:

• Rob Dolan Wines
• Steels Gate .

If you don’t want to drive, you can book onto a half or full day wine tour with your dog. Pooches & Pinot and Gourmet Pawprints cater for patrons with both two legs and four.

For something extra special, take your dog along to a High Tea in the Yarra Valley .

Looking for something a little different? Check out these unique ways to experience the Yarra Valley Wine region

➳ Take a scenic Yarra Valley horse trail ride

Take in the Yarra Valley from horseback and have a special tasting at Tokar Estate wines, at a private mountain hut.

➳ Join a Yarra Valley wine tasting tour by bike

Pedal along the Warburton Rail Trail on a guided tour, which includes a wine tasting at 1-2 cellar doors.

➳ Yarra Valley wine & chocolate tour

Visit four cellar doors, have a delicious lunch and drop into Yarra Valley Chocolaterie for free tastings.

5. If you don’t like wine, jump for juniper at a distillery

A visit to Four Pillars Gin is one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley.

Drop into the recently expanded distillery for a G&T or cocktail, or book in for a tasting session.

Attend a maker session or masterclass and learn how to make gin-based cocktails at a workshop. There’s plenty to do.

6. See in the sunrise from a hot air balloon

I can’t really think of more picturesque spots to lazily drift over in a hot air balloon.

You’ll watch the sunrise break over the valley, the light spreading across the acres of vineyards.

There’s the possibility of upgrading your aerial adventure, to include a champagne breakfast once you’re back on the ground.

This is absolutely one of the most romantic things to do in the Yarra Valley.

7. Tandem-skydive over the valley

Or forgo the hot air balloon to jump out of a plane from 15000 feet.

Free fall over the valley with an expert, then see sights from the ground.

Your experience ends with a visit to Punt Road Winery or Napoleone Cider .

8. Grab some sweet treats at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Sweet tooth aching? Make a point of heading to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie .

Here you can sample chocolatey treats on arrival, before getting down to the serious decision of what to buy.

The store is massive and has a pretty decent choice of choc.

There’s your usual milk, darks and whites for sure, but also unique mixes.

Choose from beautifully packaged chocolates from their Gourmet series, hot chocolate sets, chocolate balls of all kinds of flavours and even chocolate infused lip balms, body oils and soap.

They also offer workshops and a high tea .

Something for any sugar lover, for sure.

Then you can let the kids burn off their sugar highs, running around the outside garden, while you take in the view of the surrounding valley.

9. Eat some cheese, please, at Yarra Valley Dairy

If you are in the mood for something cheesy to complement your wine, head to Yarra Valley Dairy for not only cheese, but a delicious array of chutneys, dips and oils as well.

Coldstream Dairy is another excellent place to pick up some cheese, please.

There were five cheese on display when I visited and I bought three of them. Enough said.

10. Ogle the pieces at Tarrawarra Museum of Art

This art museum houses the collection of Eva Besen AO and Marc Besen AC, who have had a keen interest in Australian art since the 1950s.

Along with its permanent collection, there’s exhibitions of works by Australian artists.

The garden is gorgeous, with a circular walking path leading past outdoor sculptures.

Needless to say, the museum itself is a work of art and worth taking in from every angle.

11. Pick fresh fruit at Cherryhill Orchards

Love cherries? Head to this Yarra Valley orchard during cherry season (November through to early January) with a picnic, to pick delicious fruit straight from the trees.

Bonus beauty – the cherry trees blossom for two-weeks from late September to early October.

This event is as you can imagine, one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley and extremely popular (blaming Instagram here).

Register your interest to snatch up tickets to the 2023 festival.

12. & fill your basket along the U-Pick Trail

Get in the market for some fresh produce along the U-Pick Trail, where you can load up your basket with locally grown goodies.

Explore local farmgates or follow the trail from the Dandenong Ranges into the Yarra Valley.

13. Visit an Edible Forest

Designed using Hügelkultur and Permaculture methods, this is a one acre food forest , filled with plants that have a purpose – whether that be to eat, to heal, to attract birds or fix nitrogen levels in the soil.

You can book a tour of the gardens, join the Gardening Club or attend specialised workshops where you learn to cook with easily grown plants and produce.

14. Have a picnic at Maroondah Reservoir Park

For a breather and a bit of nature, head to Maroondah Reservoir Park, known locally as the Maroondah Dam.

It’s the perfect place for a spot of bird-watching and a picnic.

There’s a play area for children and some lovely gardens.

If you don’t fancy packing or organising a picnic and are up for an adventure, consider booking onto a mystery picnic in the Yarra Valley

You’ll follow the clues to local produce stores and food vendors, to pick up cheeses, meats, fruits, crackers and more.

Once you’ve collected all your gourmet goodies, you’ll be taken to a final picturesque location, to throw down a blanket and gorge to your heart and stomach’s content.

Find out what it’s like to go on a mystery picnic in Melbourne .

15. Go white water kayaking

It’s certainly not all about wine. There’s plenty of adventurous things to do in the Yarra Valley.

Kayak through Grade 2 rocky rapids on the Yarra River, for a daring 5 kilometres.

You’ll see native animals along the way and will probably get at least a little bit wet.

16. Explore Warburton

Warburton is particularly picturesque during autumn, when the town explodes in an array of colour.

However, it’s worth visiting any time of the year.

Top things to do include pedaling along the Warbuton Rail Trail and walking out to Lal Lal Falls.

17. Wander the Redwood Forest

The Warburton Redwood Forest is also a sight worth seeing in this neck of the literal woods.

Thousand of towering Californian Redwoods have been planted here. There’s also bizarre tree art within the woods.

It’s one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley and draws plenty of admirers.

Try to get there early in the morning and avoid peak summer crowds, in order to have the place somewhat to yourself.

Alternatively, jump on a guided bike tour, where you ride 12 kilometres through forests to the Californian Redwoods.

18. Hike to your heart’s content in ancient rainforest

Being located in the heart of some of Victoria’s richest rainforest, hiking is one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley.

Toolangi State Forest is a great destination for walking, with plenty of trails to discover.

Some options include:

• Tanglefoot Loop , a 10 kilometre trek, which starts in Wirrawilla Rainforest Carpark and takes 3-4 hours to complete
• Myrtle Gully Circuit , which is eight kilometres long and can be hiked in 2-3 hours
• Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk is a one kilometre boardwalk walk, which winds past Myrtle Beech and Sassafras trees
• Toolangi Sculpture Trail , where dozens of artworks line the trail, designed to decay right back into the forest
• Kalatha Giant Tree Walk is a short walk which takes you past the Kalatha Giant, a large mountain ash thought to be over 350 years old.

19. Take a scenic road trip along Black Spur Drive

This short drive might be one of the prettiest in Australia.

It connects Healesville with the nearby town of Marysville – 27 kilometres of road winding through an ancient Eucalyptus forest.

Take in the trees, which are one of the tallest flowering plant species in the world and stop in one of the many picnic spots on the way.

↠ RELATED: 20 BEST ROAD TRIPS IN AUSTRALIA

20. Check out Steavenson Falls at Marysville

These magnificent falls are one of the highest in Australia, with a drop of 84 metres.

They’re a 4 kilometre drive from Marysville and have plenty of viewing platforms from which you can see the falls.

You can even visit when it’s dark, as the path and falls are floodlit between dusk and midnight.

Alternatively, you can jump on the Tree Fern Gully Trail from Gallipoli Park in Marysville, which leads to Steavenson Falls Scenic Reserve. It’s about a 1.5 hour return walk, 3.4 kilometres one way.

Best to note dogs are not permitted at the falls, even on a leash.

For more, check out my guide to the best waterfalls in Victoria .

21. Marvel at the views from lookouts around Marysville

Another popular track in the area is the Keppel Lookout Trail.

It’s a longer, more difficult trail, which travels through the forest to four scenic lookouts, which offer stunning views across Marysville, Steavenson Falls and Cathedral Range State Park.

It takes around five hours to complete as a 15.5 kilometre loop. Make sure you wear suitable footwear, and bring water and snacks.

The trail starts in the car park on Falls Road and winds through Robertson Gully. The first lookout is Keppel Lookout, with views over Marysville.

You’ll pass Oxlee and De La Rue Lookouts and get a good look at Steavenson Falls from the top.

From there, you descend to the base of the falls and head back to the car park.

The car park is metered and I recommend bring coins to feed it.

Ogling views is definitely one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley.

22. Play in the snow at Lake Mountain

Did you know you can see snow on a day trip from Melbourne?

Lake Mountain is around a two hour drive from Melbourne and is the closest alpine resort to the city.

There’s well-marked ski trails to explore, along with opportunities for snow play.

Visit in spring to see wildflowers blanket the land or bring your mountain bike to tackle the trails around the mountain.

23. Tour an art & sculpture garden

170 sculptures by artist Bruno Torfs lie scattered throughout this rainforest garden.

These fantasy figures have been handcrafted from clay, before being fired in the kiln on site.

The gardens were completely destroyed in the 2009 Black Saturday bush fires, along with Bruno’s home and art gallery.

The artist stayed in Marysville to rebuild and the gardens continue to be enjoyed by visitors, today.

Things to do in the Yarra Valley: Where to eat

Okay. Where to even begin?

As this region is renowned for its food scene, eating is one of the top things to do in the Yarra Valley. Most wineries, breweries and distilleries have their own dedicated restaurants or kitchens, catering to hungry visitors.

At Ai Fiori Trattoria within Soumah of the Yarra Valley, the focus is on northern Italian cuisine. Similarly, Meletos in Coldstream serves up Euro-Australian inspired dishes.

TarraWarra Estate puts on an exceptional meal (visit in autumn to see the changing tree colours) and Eleonore’s Restaurant at Chateau Yering Hotel serves up both dinner and an afternoon high tea.

Innocent Bystander have a restaurant at their Healesville cellar door and you can grab a decent burger at Monroe’s Burgers down the road.

And you can’t go wrong with a pie from Beechworth Bakery if you’re in a hurry to get home (or need something substantial after all that wine).

Things to do in the Yarra Valley: in conclusion

As you can see, there’s plenty of things to do in the Yarra Valley (and not just based around wine). Take a day trip from Melbourne or stay for awhile, to experience what this picturesque region of Victoria has to offer. And visit in autumn to see a lovely display of fall foliage .

Looking for more inspiration for travel in Victoria? Drop into the gold rush towns of Bendigo or Ballarat or plan a weekend escape to Daylesford .

And check out this list of wine regions in Australia .

Looking for things to do in the Yarra Valley? Pin this post. 📌

The Yarra Valley is located on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation. We acknowledge them as Traditional Owners and pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

Similar Posts

21 Australian urban legends: from creepy to plain weird

Are wild monsters and big cats running wild in the Australian bush? Are there bodies buried under Crown Casino in Melbourne and within the Sydney Harbour Bridge? And is the Tasmanian Tiger truly extinct? Here are some Australian urban legends that’ll definitely stop you sleeping tonight. A country the size of Australia has got to…

Australia travel tips for 2024: 30 things to know

Are you going to Australia on holidays and not sure of what to expect? Well, settle down with a cup of tea (or glass of wine) and get reading. This post of Australia travel tips is here to answer any and every of your burning questions. As with anywhere that you travel to, it’s good…

A mystery picnic date in Melbourne with AmazingCo

Grab a picnic blanket and explore Australia’s foodie capital. Find out what it’s like to spend a day in Melbourne on a Mystery Picnic with AmazingCo.

Exploring Adelaide’s City of Music Laneways Trail

Adelaide’s City of Music Laneways is an ongoing art project, paying homage to Australian musicians who hail from South Australia.

The 10 Best Australian Books of 2018

I’ll admit I approached the writing of this list with some trepidation. I’ve read a lot of great Aussie books this year and narrowing them down to just ten has been a stressful ordeal. I’ve kept to books that were published in 2018 and have tried to review a range of genres, although I seem…

A quick guide to the pink lakes of Victoria, Australia

Did you know Victoria has a few pink lakes? Here’s when and where you can find them.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Yarra Valley is looking sensational in its autumnal colours, and we have a new 2022 vintage of the Estate Pinot Noir available for tasting in our cellar door. Book your tasting here.  

• Shopping Cart

Social Sharing

• October 18, 2023

Yarra Valley Day Trip Ideas: A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and Cuisine

Are you ready for an unforgettable day trip in the scenic Yarra Valley? This article presents a curated list of Yarra Valley day trip ideas that offer a perfect blend of nature, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. We’ve selected our favorite attraction at the end, so keep reading to find out which one tops the list!

• 1 Beechworth Bakery: A Slice of Delicious History
• 2 Healesville Sanctuary: Wildlife Wonders in Yarra Valley
• 3 Ada Tree Rainforest Walk: Nature’s Tranquil Escape
• 4 TarraWarra Museum of Art: A Cultural Oasis
• 5 Go Wild Ballooning: Soar Above the Yarra Valley
• 6 Our Favorite
• 7.1 What is the best time to visit the Yarra Valley for a day trip?
• 7.2 How do I get to the Yarra Valley for a day trip?
• 7.3 Can I visit multiple attractions in a single day trip to the Yarra Valley?
• 7.4 Are there family-friendly activities in the Yarra Valley?
• 7.5 What should I wear for a Yarra Valley day trip?

Beechworth Bakery: A Slice of Delicious History

Nestled in the heart of the Yarra Valley, Beechworth Bakery is a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. With a rich history dating back to the Gold Rush era, this bakery has mastered the art of creating scrumptious pies, artisanal sandwiches, and delectable pastries. The warm and rustic ambiance adds to its charm, making it a great spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch.

Healesville Sanctuary: Wildlife Wonders in Yarra Valley

Located within the picturesque Yarra Valley, Healesville Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife lovers. Home to over 200 species of native Australian animals, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to get up close with kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and many other fascinating creatures. The sanctuary’s conservation efforts and immersive exhibits make it an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Ada Tree Rainforest Walk: Nature’s Tranquil Escape

The Ada Tree Rainforest Walk is a hidden gem in the Yarra Valley, offering a serene and immersive experience in nature. This easy hiking trail takes you through lush rainforest, leading to the awe-inspiring Ada Tree, one of Victoria’s largest trees. It’s a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery.

TarraWarra Museum of Art: A Cultural Oasis

TarraWarra Museum of Art is a cultural treasure nestled in the Yarra Valley’s vineyard-draped landscape. This museum showcases a remarkable collection of Australian modern and contemporary art. Visitors can explore diverse exhibitions, from paintings to sculptures, set against the backdrop of the Yarra Valley’s natural beauty. It’s a perfect blend of art and nature. Come check out the Tarrawarra Yarra Valley Winery & Yarra Valley Restaurant.

Go Wild Ballooning: Soar Above the Yarra Valley

For an unforgettable Yarra Valley experience, consider a hot air balloon adventure with Go Wild Ballooning. Drift gracefully above the rolling vineyards, forests, and rivers, taking in panoramic views of the stunning landscape as the sun rises. This exhilarating journey offers a unique perspective of the Yarra Valley and is perfect for those seeking an extraordinary and romantic day trip.

Our Favorite

Choosing a favorite among these incredible Yarra Valley day trip ideas is a tough task, but if we must, it’s the Go Wild Ballooning experience. Soaring high above the Yarra Valley in a hot air balloon provides a breathtaking perspective of this picturesque region. The serene beauty and the romantic ambiance of a sunrise hot air balloon ride make it an unforgettable adventure.

No matter which of these Yarra Valley day trip ideas you choose, you’re in for a memorable day filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Each of these attractions offers a unique experience that will leave you with cherished memories of your Yarra Valley adventure. Learn more about your Alcohol limits here: Alcohol Health .

What is the best time to visit the Yarra Valley for a day trip?

The Yarra Valley is beautiful year-round, but the best time for a day trip largely depends on your preferences. Spring (September to November) offers mild weather and blooming vineyards, while autumn (March to May) features colorful foliage. Summer (December to February) is great for outdoor activities, but it can be hot. Winter (June to August) is ideal for wine enthusiasts as it's less crowded and perfect for cozy wine tasting indoors.

How do I get to the Yarra Valley for a day trip?

The Yarra Valley is located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) northeast of Melbourne, Australia. You can reach it by car in about an hour or take a train from Melbourne to Lilydale, then continue by bus or taxi to various Yarra Valley attractions.

Can I visit multiple attractions in a single day trip to the Yarra Valley?

Yes, you can plan your day trip to include multiple attractions, but it's essential to manage your time wisely. Consider prioritizing your must-visit places and creating an itinerary to make the most of your day.

Are there family-friendly activities in the Yarra Valley?

Absolutely! Healesville Sanctuary is a fantastic family-friendly attraction where you can see native Australian wildlife up close. Additionally, many wineries and restaurants in the Yarra Valley welcome families and offer kid-friendly menus.

What should I wear for a Yarra Valley day trip?

Dress comfortably and appropriately for the season. In warmer months, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. In cooler months, layering is key, and it's a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater, especially if you plan to be outdoors.

What is Ice Wine: A Delightfully Frozen Elixir

Ah, the world of wine—a universe where each glass holds a story waiting to be shared, a journey of flavors and aromas that dances on

A Sip of Comfort: How to Make Mulled Wine – A Comprehensive Guide

Ah, the chill in the air, the leaves falling like nature’s confetti, and the scent of something extraordinary brewing in the kitchen—it can only mean

How Is Wine Made: A Vineyard’s Tale

Ladies and gentlemen, wine enthusiasts, and those just curious about the captivating world of winemaking, welcome to a journey behind the scenes. Ever wondered how

• CELLAR CLUB QUARTERLY FAQ'S
• SAFE TASTING & DINING
• GIFT VOUCHERS
• JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

TarraWarra Estate acknowledges the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation as the original custodians of the lands and waters on which the Estate stands, and pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

‘Tarrawarra’ is a Woiwurrung word that translates approximately as ‘slow moving water’ and is the name given to the area in which the Estate is located within the Yarra Valley.

Legend has it that the term ‘Tarrawarra’ refers to a bend in the nearby Birrarung (Yarra River), which courses from the Yarra Ranges through to Melbourne, flowing south of the Estates expansive grounds.

Liquor Licence Number: 32800202

Wurundjeri Country

311 Healesville-Yarra Glen Road, Yarra Glen 3775

03 5962 3311

[email protected]

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• © 2023 - Wine eCommerce & Wine POS System by

SARAH FAGAN

We are thrilled to announce that the incredibly talented Yarra Valley winemaker Sarah Fagan will commence as the Tarrawarra Estate Winemaker on Monday 11th September.

Sarah brings twenty years of winemaking experience and a love for our beautiful region from a long and loyal tenure at De Bortoli Yarra Valley, where she joined as a casual vintage worker in 2003 and progressed through the ranks to her most recent role as Senior Winemaker.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my journey at De Bortoli and I am proud of the wines we have made over my time of working with their vineyards. TarraWarra Estate has always carved its own independent path here in the Yarra Valley and I look forward to continuing this tradition and embracing change and the development of TarraWarra Estate into the future”, says Sarah.

Tarrawarra Estate, was founded by Eva and Marc Besen in 1983 and the family philosophy has always been rooted in respect for excellence, provenance, and sustainability, with the vision to ‘produce wines of great quality and integrity, amidst a location of beauty and welcome.’ Sarah will be responsible for all aspects of Tarrawarra Estate winemaking and winery operations. As an experienced wine judge, with a refined palate and particular appreciation for cool-climate winemaking from regions all over the world, she is perfectly placed to deliver on the philosophy and drive Tarrawarra Estate’s wines to a new level of success and recognition. Samantha Isherwood, General Manager, says: “We are absolutely delighted that Sarah has chosen the Tarrawarra Estate role as the opportunity to spread her wings, we welcome her to the production team and look forward to seeing her personal stamp on future Tarrawarra Estate vintages.”

• Town - Healesville
• Town - Lilydale
• Town - Marysville
• Town - Seville
• Town - Warburton
• Town - Yarra Glen

• Healesville Sanctuary

• Yarra Ranges National Park

Lake Mountain

• Mt Donna Buang

Yarra Valley Railway

• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Yarra Valley Dairy

Alowyn Gardens

Sanders Apples

Blue Lotus Water Garden

Yarra Valley Restaurants

Blue Hills Berries & Cherries

Kinglake Market

Bollygum Community Market

Valley Market Warburton

Yarra Valley Regional Farmers Market

Upper Yarra Community Market

Yarra Glen Racecourse Market

Healesville Community Market

Lilydale Craft and Produce Market

Warburton Community Market

• Marysville Jazz and Blues Weekend

Lilydale & Yarra Valley Show

Yarra Valley Oktoberfest

• Wandin Silvan Field Days

Shortest Lunch

• Rochford Winery Concerts

• Lotus Flower Season
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Caravan Parks
• Badger Creek
• Dixons Creek
• Yarra Junction

• Healesville

Seville East

10 Money-Saving Hacks When Visiting The Yarra Valley In Australia

Beauty Tips For When Travelling Around the Yarra Valley

Survival Tips for Your Ultimate Australian Adventure

5 Best Small Winery Experiences of the Yarra Valley

Coldstream Airport

Lilydale Airport

Yarra Glen Weather

Warburton Weather

Healesville Weather

Yarra Valley Weather

Yarra Valley Map

Wineries Map

• General Enquiries
• Advertising Enquiries
• Add Your Business
• Add Your Event

Kids are free on weekends, VIC public holidays & VIC school holidays Healesville Sanctuary is one of Australia’s most loved zoo attractions...

The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery is a popular destination for chocolate lovers during their visit to the picturesque Yarra Valley. Try before you buy, as there are plenty of free tastings to help you...

For a delicious cheese experience in the Yarra Valley, visit the popular Yarra Valley Dairy. Started as a small family owned farm in 1955, the Yarra Valley Dairy has grown into a renowned cheese producing factory and...

Located in the township of Yarra Glen, Alowyn Gardens is a must-visit attraction in the Yarra Valley. Explore this amazing garden setting that boasts several themed gardens within its 4 acres including a forest garden...

Sanders Apples is a family owned and operated apple orchard nestled in the picturesque Yarra Valley. They open their orchard grounds during the apple picking season to give you the unique opportunity to pick your own...

The Yarra Valley’s Blue Lotus Water Garden stretches over 14 acres and has a number of water gardens which boast beautiful varieties of water lilies and lotus flowers. Visitors to the garden can hike, relax, play...

The Yarra Valley wine region is one of Victoria’s best vacation spots as it is well known for its local gourmet food and wines. Therefore, it is no wonder that the Yarra Valley is flooded with many award-winning...

Blue Hills Berries and Cherries is a renowned Yarra Valley family owned and operated farm, known for its fresh berry and cherry produce. Started by two local farmers Lorraine and Murray, this small farm is one of the...

La La Falls

Nestled on the upper reaches of the Yarra River, the scenic town of Warburton is an easily accessible tourist destination from Melbourne. Surrounded by lush pastures and dense forests, Warburton is perfect for those...

Steavenson Falls

While in the Yarra Valley, take a trip along the Black Spur and explore the charming snow gum woodlands and the dense rainforest in the Yarra Valley. Also, plan a tour to Steavenson Falls and check out one of the...

The Big Bouquet

Nestled in the heart of Healesville, the Big Bouquet is a beautifully maintained wholesale gerbera farm. As a renowned working gerbera farm in Healesville, the Big Bouquet is a beautiful garden venue popular with...

Yarra Valley, Melbourne Region & Victoria Tourism, Australia

The Yarra Valley is a world-renowned tourism and wine region; boasting over 100 wineries and vineyards - each producing world-renowned, quality wines. However, visitors to Melbourne and the region should also make sure to check out the large range of other activities and attractions on offer in this beautiful natural setting in Victoria.

From animal sanctuaries, waterfalls, scenic drives, walking trails, hot air ballooning, as well as the many wine, music and food festivals held throughout the region, there really is so much to see and do during your next holiday in the Yarra Valley and Australia.

Weather Forecast

Upcoming events.

• Hedgend Maze
• Hot Air Balloon
• Healesville Music Festival