The Yarra Valley beckons with its premium wines, craft brews, pristine parks, and adrenaline-filled adventures like skydiving and hot-air ballooning.
Merely an hour’s drive from Melbourne transports you to one of Australia’s premier wine districts. While many make it a day’s visit to the wineries, the Yarra Valley offers a plethora of experiences beyond sipping exquisite wines.
Dive deep into the Yarra Valley’s lush landscapes.
This charming part of Victoria’s countryside allows you to discover unique village shops, view art in local galleries, visit animal reserves, and indulge in regional delights like chocolates, cheeses, teas, and more. Let’s delve into the best things to do in Yarra Valley.
Experience the pure, invigorating air, whether on foot or a bit elevated.
Embark on a trek
From relaxed trails to challenging terrains, the Yarra Valley has a path tailored for every trekker.
For those looking for a leisurely walk coupled with a picnic, the Badger Weir Picnic Area near Healesville offers a 2.6-kilometre journey amidst ferns and trees, leading to a shaded resting place. The La La Falls trail, slightly challenging at 3.2 kilometres, starts outside Warburton, meandering through towering Mountain Ash forests before reaching a picturesque waterfall.
Lal Lal waterfall stands as the epitome of the serenity of the region.
A family and pet-friendly option is the Riverside Tracks, a 5.5-kilometre circuit from Warburton, navigating riverbanks and crossing bridges, with dogs allowed on a leash.
Marvel at the splendours of the Yarra Valley.
For the adventurers, the 14.8-kilometre Mount Donna Buang Track begins by the Yarra River, ascending 1100 meters through a dense canopy of Mountain Ash, myrtles, and giant ferns. It’s essential to be prepared with adequate provisions for this journey.
Discover the Yarra Valley botanical wonders
With the fertile valley soil, vibrant gardens bloom in abundance.
At Yarra Glen’s Alowyn Gardens, explore seven distinct gardens, from geometrically designed formal gardens to edible spaces and dense forests, not forgetting the captivating wisteria archway.
The period from late November to February transforms the Warratina Lavender Farm into a sea of lavender, becoming a prime photo locale. But even outside this period, the Ploughman’s Blue lavender remains a year-round attraction, complemented by lavender-infused treats at the Lavender Tea House.
The Warratina Lavender Farm epitomizes the Valley’s charm.
Meanwhile, between Boxing Day and April 18th, the Blue Lotus Water Garden greets guests with its exotic water-themed garden. Marvel at the Giant Amazon Waterlilies and immerse in the beauty of myriad ponds and lakes.
Linking Melbourne’s fringes to the Yarra Valley, the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail can be explored in parts or its entirety.
Go for a walk and relish the beauty of the Yarra Valley.
This pathway, which traces a defunct railway line from 1965, winds through forests and hamlets. Its gradual slope makes it ideal for both walking and cycling.
You can rent bikes for adults and children, and there is a delivery and pick-up service at various points along the route.
Cycle and capture the scenic vistas of the Yarra Valley. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robert Blackburn)
An overnight stay in the valley is recommended for those keen on completing the entire 40-kilometre stretch.
The entirety of the ‘Warby Trail’ is accessible for wheelchairs, with the 8.5-kilometre segment from Yara Junction to Warburton being predominantly sealed, leading you through a dense forest to the trail’s culmination.
Experience the Rail Trail
Take the Skydiving Plunge
For thrill-seekers, skydiving over the Yarra Valley is a must. Available to individuals 16 years and above (with parental accompaniment required for those under 18), tandem dives from 15,000 feet are offered. After roughly 60 seconds of freefall, you’ll glide back to terra firma, savouring unparalleled views.
Embark on a Horseback Adventure
Experience horse riding in the Yarra Valley, tailored for all levels. Chum Creek Horseriding and Huts cater to both novices and adept riders, ensuring you’re swiftly navigating the wilderness.
Delve into the Yarra Valley’s beauty on horseback.
You can opt for a 2.5-hour trail ride culminating in a wine tasting at a mountain refuge. For those seeking a prolonged experience, the three-day adventure includes authentic Australian campfire meals and stays at the Chum Creek Huts. Additionally, there are one-hour sessions for children starting at six.
Embark on the Wurundjeri Walk
Soar High in a Hot Air Balloon
Though hot air ballooning requires an early start, it promises an unmatched experience. The spectacle of balloons against the Yarra Valley backdrop is splendid, and the view from within the basket is even more mesmerizing.
Experience the Yarra Valley from an aerial perspective.
Benefiting from the stable dawn conditions due to surrounding mountain ranges, you’ll glide over vineyards, farmlands, and woodlands.
Explore the TarraWarra Museum of Art
Crafted by the renowned Australian architect Allan Powell, the TarraWarra Museum of Art is an architectural marvel, harmonizing with its surrounding landscapes.
Venture inside its distinctive walls, and you’ll encounter an array of modern and contemporary artworks, ranging from paintings and sculptures to intricate drawings from notable Australian artists.
Discover ever-evolving exhibits at the TarraWarra Museum of Art.
Frequent visitors might observe changes not just in the artwork but also in the wall designs or hues. Conclude your visit with a trip to Valhalla, a masterpiece by Callum Morton, initially showcased at the 52nd Venice Biennale before being meticulously repositioned to the Yarra Valley in 2016.
Relax within the TarraWarra Estate’s surroundings.
Dive into Artistry at The Hubert Gallery of Art
The reimagined Hubert Estate, unveiled in March 2022, showcases not only a new cellar door and restaurant but also the Yarra Valley’s newest art haven, The Hubert Gallery of Art. Brainchild of Adam Knight and Gerry Ryan OAM, the gallery mirrors their deep admiration for Indigenous Australian art.
Discover and relish Indigenous artworks rooted in Australia’s rich past.
The gallery spans over 20 Indigenous communities and displays various paintings, sculptures, and Marebu (traditional woven mats). Conveniently located beneath the elegant cellar door, visitors can easily combine their wine-tasting experience with an art tour or enjoy the gallery in isolation.
Experience Local Creativity at YAVA Gallery & Arts Hub
Symbolizing the heart of Yarra Valley’s artistic scene, the YAVA Gallery & Arts Hub operates as a non-profit, volunteer-driven initiative. Nestled in Healesville, this hub allows artists and art enthusiasts to unite. Besides showcasing works from local and global artists, YAVA organizes workshops and events spanning visual arts, music, poetry, theatre, and filmmaking.
Embark on a Nostalgic Journey with Puffing Billy
Puffing Billy, for over a century, has been chugging along its traditional route from Belgrave to Emerald, finally reaching Gembrook. Initially serving as a transport lifeline for hillside communities, today, it offers a delightful escapade for families and even pets on designated days.
Board the Puffing Billy for a picturesque Yarra Valley voyage.
As you traverse through untouched forests, lush fern canyons, and iconic timber bridges, you can relish the unique charm of sitting with your legs dangling over the side; for those seeking luxury, the Steam & Cuisine journey awaits, where passengers indulge in a gourmet three-course meal beneath the intricate pressed metal ceiling of a premium carriage.
Relish Craft Beers
Journey through the Yarra Valley’s vibrant microbrewery landscape. At Matilda Bay Brewery, understand the sustainable practices integral to beer production during a guided tour and sample freshly brewed beer straight from their tanks. The Coldstream Brewery offers a selection of beers and ciders paired with hearty meals like parmes and pizzas.
Initially initiated as a hobby, Hop Hen Brewery, located in Lilydale, is now a family-owned venture where everything from brewing to bottling is done in-house. Watts River Brewing symbolizes the unity of two young families who established a brewery and tasting space in Healesville.
Indulge in cheese-tasting
The pairing of wine and cheese is iconic, and in Yarra Valley, you can experience both straight from their origins. At Yarra Valley Dairy, fresh cow milk sourced from local farms and goat milk from the nearby Mansfield region are used to craft cheeses, drawing inspiration from the traditional farmhouse cheeses of France and Italy.
Relish an assortment of freshly made cow and goat cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy.
Opt for the Premium Tasting package to savour their full spectrum of handcrafted cheeses, or enjoy a curated cheese plate with locally baked bread and charcuterie.
Chocolate and Ice Cream Delight
The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery is a haven for chocolate enthusiasts, boasting over 400 unique chocolate items. The expansive windows allow patrons to watch master chocolatiers craft these sweet delights before indulging in a complimentary chocolate sampling.
Witness the creation of delectable treats at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery.
Participate in a hands-on chocolate-making class, or let youngsters between six and twelve years join the Junior Chocolatiers session.
Make a pit stop for sweet indulgence at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery.
After indulging, children can expend energy in the sprawling lawns, gardens, orchards, and wetlands, while adults can unwind at the all-day café.
Relish the serene ambiance of Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery’s extensive grounds.
Discover Four Pillars Gin Distillery
Counted among Australia’s elite craft spirits, Four Pillars boasts an impressive collection of international accolades, including gold and top gin awards. Pre-booking is recommended to ensure a slot for their tastings and masterclasses in the Yarra Valley distillery. Here, you can delve into the unique botanicals that define their classic and exclusive gins.
Established in 2013, Four Pillars has become the shining star of Australian spirits.
With their non-alcoholic Bandwagon series, even the designated drivers can relish a cocktail, enjoying the aromatic botanical flavours without the alcohol content.
Relish the varied flavours at Four Pillars.
Experience Cherry Picking
Engage in the delightful experience of plucking cherries directly from the trees at Cherry Hill Orchards. Alongside feasting on cherries during the two-hour session, visitors can purchase their handpicked cherries to savour later.
Engage in cherry-picking fun at Cherry Hill Orchards.
Bring a picnic to complement your cherry bounty, or opt for wood-fired pizzas and wine tastings from Rochford wines at Coldstream Orchard. Wandin Orchard features a variety of food trucks for a gastronomic experience.
Savour cherries amidst a picturesque setting at Cherry Hill Orchards.
Tea Exploration
Discover the intricacies of tea production at the Yarra Valley Tea Company. Located in Coldstream, this family-operated venture emphasizes organic and ethically produced teas. They take pride in using Australia’s only certified green tea. Visitors can observe the tea-blending process via a public window and purchase unique blends from the tea store.
The Aroma of Fresh Coffee
While Silva Coffee Roasters offers delightful coffee paired with delicious pastries, a coffee-tasting flight is recommended. This allows patrons to savour their latest blends while understanding the history and people behind each cup. Whether you sit at the bar or lounge in the indoor and outdoor seating areas, the coffee journey promises to be memorable.
Listen, if you’re keen to swap the dust of the Red Centre for something a bit more lush, Yarra Valley is a bloody ripper of a spot. It’s not just about staring at the scenery; you’ve gotta get stuck into the local produce. I reckon the best way to do it without being the ‘designated driver’ is to jump on one of those Yarra Valley Wine tours. It’s a deadset win—you get to taste the best drops in the region while someone else handles the steering. No wackeries, just good times and top-tier plonk.
