Yarra Valley - The Australian Traveller Guide

Renowned as a world class wine region, the Yarra Valley offers a slice of European indulgence in our Aussie backyard. Boasting stunning surroundings, plentiful markets and countless spas, restaurants and wineries, the Yarra Valley has become a popular destination for romantic getaways.

WHERE TO STAY
There is a plethora of accommodation choices throughout the Yarra Valley, with the higher end of the spectrum featuring delicious retreats like Chateau Yering Historic House Hotel. Restaurant, room service, spa and wellness centre, business centre, child care and high speed internet access are just some of the offerings at this luxurious 5-star hotel, but expect to pay atleast $500 per night in exchange.
For something a little more affordable without skimping on indulgence, check out Sanctuary Park Cottages. Well reviewed and with plenty of options, prices generally start from about $175.
But if you’d rather get amongst the vines there are many more options for accommodation on local wineries.

WHAT TO DO
The obvious starting point to any Yarra Valley to-do list is to visit some of the region’s award-winning wineries and breweries. As you meander through the area, don’t forget to sample other available home-grown produce. From Yarra Valley Dairy in Yering, or Badger Creek Blueberry Farm in Healesville, to Marysville Trout and Salmon Ponds – there’s something for all taste sensations.
Food and wine venues are not the only thing in abundance, with health and day spas dotted throughout the region, relaxation is a key aspect of the Yarra Valley experience.
To make the most of the local scenery, hot air balloon tours are also available in a variety of time frames and features, such as champagne breakfasts and winery tours. For those with kids in tow, the Healesville Sanctuary is worth a visit with over 200 native species to discover.
During your stay, also consider also driving through the Black Spur and visit Marysville as it rebuilds following the 2009 Black Saturday fires.

WHEN TO TRAVEL
Although the region has something to offer any time of the year, spring not only offers temperate weather, but is also the time for many annual festivals. Some events include the Inspiring in Spring Garden Festival, celebrated throughout nearby Dandenong Ranges, the Healesville Railway Heritage Festival, Melba Food, Wine and Music Festival, ShedFest for various smaller wineries throughout the Yarra Valley and the Marysville Sparkling Wine Festival.

TRANSPORT
Located just 50km to the east of Melbourne’s CBD, the Yarra Valley is a comfortable hour drive away.
Alternatively, several airports are located throughout the region.

Area Highlights

056 Marysville

Once referred to as “God’s own garden,” Marysville, hidden in a valley just an hour northeast of Melbourne, was utterly devastated by the Black Saturday bushfires of February 2009.

Boutique Wineries of the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley’s fertile edges hide some the best boutique wineries in Victoria. Steve Robertson skirts the famously verdant valley, bringing you all the secrets of its overlooked fringe.

070 Play possum with the tiny Leadbeater

While you’re busy wandering among the world’s tallest flowering plants, keep an eye out for the very tiny, and very, very endangered Leadbeater’s Possum.