Must-Book Yarra Valley Accommodation

These lush stays are all set against stunning natural landscapes.

Amid the rolling hills and premium vineyards of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, a myriad of accommodations awaits every traveller. From a grand chateau to a cosy loft, boutique winery, funky farmhouse, pet-friendly cottage, or off-grid bush hideaway, we’ve got you covered when it comes to Yarra Valley accommodation.

Winery accommodation

Wineries are an integral part of the Yarra Valley, so what could be more appealing than sleeping amongst the vines?

Soumah

Soumah is renowned for its lively wines and buzzy trattoria specialising in long lunches on the deck, It’s tucked into undulating foothills at the end of a quintessential country lane, a short drive from Healesville. And there are five elegant villas ranging from one to four bedrooms just moments away from the cellar door.

With spectacular vineyard views, chef-inspired kitchens, and outdoor spaces with fireplaces it’s quite possible to spend an entire short break here without leaving the property. Villa Sophia even has a bocce court.

the interior of Soumah, Yarra Valley — Relax in one of the elegant villas that overlook the vineyard.

Best for: Friends, couples, and lovers of Northern Italy wine and food.

Address: 18 Hexham Rd, Gruyere

Balgownie Estate

After partially being destroyed by fire in 2020, this icon of the valley has surpassed its former glory following a $7 million refurb.

Sprawling over 30 hectares, Balgownie Estate is an exclusive property a heartbeat away from everything the Yarra Valley has to offer.

the vineyard at the Balgownie Estate in Yarra Valley — The rustic-luxe retreat is sequestered within lush greenery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The generously sized suites boast a fancy yet relaxed vibe and are designed using an earthy palette for guests to unwind and take in the surrounding beauty.

the living room interior of Balgownie Estate — Experience relaxed living in the Yarra Valley countryside.

With an Endota Spa onsite, there’s plenty of pampering on offer, the cellar door has a range of tastings (including a wine and chocolate combo), and Restaurant 1309 serves exquisite meals focusing on local produce all day, every day.

the kitchen and dining at Balgownie Estate in Yarra Valley — Each suite is equipped with a full kitchen.

Best for: Accessible travel, romantic stays, pampering, special occasions

Address: 1309 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen

Belaradah at Stefani Estate

When a place is family-owned and run, it adds that special touch of homeliness. Set amongst the vines of a working winery, an olive grove and a pretty orchard, Belaradah at Stefani Estate features two-bedroom, two-bathroom open-plan units that offer scope for up to eight people.

the Stefani Estate Belaradah Road Sign — Stefani Estate is set amongst the vines of a working winery.

Each unit is contemporary in design with picture windows, a well-equipped kitchen, a wood fire and a large deck, perfect for enjoying a glass of fine estate wine. A short drive to Yarra Valley must-dos such as Healesville Sanctuary and TarraWarra Museum of Art, in addition to several wineries and restaurants.

a contemporary unit at Belaradah at Stefani Estate — Contemporary design meets comfort at Belaradah.

Best for: Holidays with friends, small families, couples, pet-friendly

Address: 711 Old Healesville Rd, Healesville

Luxury accommodation

Grandeur meets innovation, rustic meets sleek, luxe in the Yarra Valley is all about a sense of place.

Re’em

This 16-suite luxurious boutique hotel is the latest addition to the much-loved Helen and Joey Estate winery, and a welcome addition to the Yarra Valley accommodation scene.

Nestled into 80 hectares of manicured vineyards and gardens Re’em is a destination within itself, but close enough to other attractions of the valley.

a bathtub with views of the vineyard at Re’em, Yarra Valley — Each suite exudes relaxed luxury with a tub to soak in while admiring the view. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Modernistic in style, rooms designed for two people are generous in size, with freestanding tubs in the ensuites, and either a balcony or patio to inhale the spectacular views.

indoor dining overlooking the vines at Re’em, Yarra Valley — Opt for indoor dining overlooking the vines. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Take a seat in a booth at the swish restaurant to feast on an Asian-inspired menu crafted by head chef Abe Yang.

the restaurant at Re’em, Yarra Valley — Dine in style at Re’em. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Best for: Special occasions, weddings, food lovers, accessibility travel

Address: 12-14 Spring Ln, Gruyere

Chateau Yering

Dating back to 1854, Chateau Yering is deservedly the grand dame of the Yarra Valley. Set within a rambling country garden, each of the 32 sumptuous suites has a private balcony and is individually decorated with fine antiques, plump cushions, and exquisite artwork creating the feel of being in someone’s home rather than a hotel.

Eleonore’s Restaurant, in the original dining room, serves a seasonal degustation menu highlighting regional fare, and breakfast for in-house guests is in the pretty conservatory-style Sweetwater Café overlooking the garden.

a look inside the lavish suite at Chateau Yering — Relax in the elegant drawing room at Chateau Yering. (Image: Visit Victoria)

In prime location (after all it was one of the first buildings in the area), Yarra Glen is moments away and Yering Station, Victoria’s first winery is right next door.

The bedroom of the Yering Suite — Treat yourself to the Yering Suite, a split-level, apartment-size suite.

Best for: Romantic getaways, weddings, corporate gatherings

Address: 42 Melba Hwy, Yering

Stones of the Yarra Valley

A slice of Europe without an international air ticket, no ‘stone’ is left unturned here when it comes to atmosphere, pampering and the finest of hospitality.

Overlooking the vineyards, each of the 22 rooms in the Meletos Farmhouse at Stones of the Yarra Valley is curated with timeless pieces of provincial furniture, artwork and soft furnishings lovingly sourced from around the world.

a room with nature views at Stones of the Yarra Valley — Take in spectacular vineyard views from your window.

On the northern side of the 80-hectare property, a five-bedroom self-contained villa is straight out of a picture book. Stones is only a 10-minute drive from Yarra Glen.

the exterior of the Meletos Farmhouse at Stones of the Yarra Valley — Stay at the Stones of the Yarra Valley for a slice of Europe.

Best for: Romantic getaways, groups of friends, weddings, corporate gatherings, adults only

Address: 14 St Huberts Rd, Coldstream

Holiday cottages

Fancy living like a local? Try one of these cottages.

Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage

Family-owned for over four generations Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage overlooks the vineyard in one direction and a herd of Black Angus cattle grazing on lush green grass in the other.

With polished floorboards, a country-style kitchen, two Queen sized bedrooms and a sofa bed in the sunroom, there’s room for up to five guests. Help yourself to produce from the veggie garden, catch the sunrise or sunset on the front or back deck, and enjoy snuggling by the wood fire on cool nights.

the dining space at Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage — The cottage is equipped with a kitchen and dining area.

The cottage is within walking distance of wineries with restaurants, and a 10-minute drive to Healesville and Healesville Sanctuary.

the outdoor deck at Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage — The outdoor deck is a cosy spot for relaxing.

Best for: families (childminding can be arranged), couples travelling together

Address: 13/15 Maddens Ln, Gruyere

Yering Gorge Cottages

Yering Gorge Cottages are set against the Christmas Hills in a nook where the bush meets the Yarra River, less than a 10-minute drive from Yarra Glen.

The cottages are perfect for self-catering, with eight one-bedrooms, a couple of two-bedders (can be booked adjoining or separately), a three-bedroom villa and one and two designated accessible cottages hidden within a 50-hectare reserve with wombats, echidnas, kangaroos and mega birdlife as neighbours.

the scenic landscape at Yering Gorge Cottages — Yering Gorge Cottages offer views over the valley’s scenic landscape. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Next door to a 27-hole championship golf course designed by Greg Norman also makes it a dream for golfers.

the Eastern Golf Club near Yering Gorge Cottages — The Eastern Golf Club runs alongside the Yarra River. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Best for: Accessible travel, small or large family or friend groups, golf enthusiasts

Address: 215 Victoria Rd, Yering

Bed and breakfast

Who doesn’t love a great B&B? Here are a couple of the Yarra Valley’s best in the biz.

Nissen Hut at Glenlowren

It would be hard to find a more picturesque setting than Nissen Hut a B&B part of the Glenlowren collective, set within a 100-acre working farm.

Perched overlooking a small lake, the historic hut is distinctively recognisable in structure but totally transformed into a luxurious two-bedroom (ensuites) with open plan living oozing charm.

the Nissen Hut at Glenlowren on a small lake — The historic hut is tucked away in divine seclusion on the Glenlowran Estate. (Image: Ben Frazer)

Generous farmhouse goodies are provided for a ‘cook your own’ style breakfast. Nissen Hut is less than a 20-minute drive from attractions, wineries, restaurants and cafes.

a look inside the the Nissen Hut at Glenlowren — The accommodation stands out with its curved nterior. (Image: Sarah from Kindred Photography)

Best for: Couples travelling together, romantic getaways, trout fishers,

Address: 281 Bottings Ln, Dixons Creek

The Burrow at Wombat Bend

Set on a bend in a billabong, teeming with birds and native wildlife, The Burrow is a place to embrace nature, soothe the soul and feel inspired. It is hidden from civilisation on Dixon’s Creek, ten minutes from Yarra Glen.

The mud-brick cottage has a homely vibe with pure linen bedding, a fire pit for toasting marshmallows and a country kitchen for cooking up a storm. Pre-ordered chef cook meals can be organised, the breakfast goodies are generous and picking the garden veggies encouraged.

the interior of The Burrow at Wombat Bend, Yarra Valley — Rustic charm fills the interior of this mud-brick cottage. (Image: John Murray)

Best for: solo travellers, nature lovers, writer’s retreat, sustainable travel

Address: 200 Beachs Ln, Dixons Creek

Hotels and retreats

Point of difference is a signature of Yarra Valley accommodation, and hotels and retreats are no exception.

Yarra Valley Grand Hotel

The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel is an iconic National Trust building still going strong since first opening as a pub in 1888. The rooms and suites in the historic part of the hotel are decorated in period style.

The piece de resistance for a special occasion is the Tower Suite which takes in three levels with a library and access to the top balcony for 360-degree views over the Yarra Valley.

the elegant interior of Yarra Valley Grand Hotel — The hotel is equipped with elegant furnishings.

Meals are hearty pub style with country weekly specials like ‘parma and pot’ and curry night. Separate from the hotel, the four-bedroom manager’s house has a swimming pool, log fire and full-size kitchen.

food and drinks on the table at Yarra Valley Grand Hotel — Dine on hearty pub-style meals.

Best for: couples, friends travelling together, history buffs, celebrations

Address: 19 Bell St Service Rd, Yarra Glen

Kangaroo Ridge Retreat

Shhhhh this is a secret hideaway. Sitting high almost touching the clouds, each of the two self-contained sumptuous cabins at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat comes with jaw-dropping views. Designed in earthy tones using mud-brick and timber, a vacay here is all about chilling out and recharging.

There’s an in-retreat wine bar stocked with hand-selected local vintages, gourmet regional fare in the larder and a turntable at the ready to play the collection of vinyl for dancing, or listening to while soaking in the spa bath, or sitting by the log fire. For an added indulgence, arrive by helicopter.

the lounge area at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley — This sleek stay overlooks the rolling hills.

Believe it or not, the accommodation is a short drive from Healesville.

the bed at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley — Rooms are designed to promote relaxation and well-being.

Best for: Solitude, romantic escape, special occasions, adults only

Address: 38 Turners Ln, Healesville

RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort

This mainstay of Yarra Valley accommodation is well-loved by travellers of all ages and stages. Simplistic, yet elegant in design everything you need is right here.

The Michael Clayton-designed 18-hole golf course is a drawcard for golfers, then there’s the floodlit tennis courts, a 25-metre swimming pool, lawn bowls, croquet and bocce. Young kids will love the jumping pillow and adventure playground, and parents the pampering at One Spa.

an indoor pool at RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort, Yarra Valley — Treat yourself to a soothing dip.

Guest rooms are spacious, with views over the mountains, garden or golf course. The elegant Banyalla restaurant showcases regional produce, and the more casual Riddell’s Green is perfect for an up-market family-friendly dining experience.

the dining at Banyalla restaurant, RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort, Yarra Valley — Dine on regional produce at the on-site restaurant.

Best for: golfers, families, couples, friends travelling together, weddings, corporate gatherings, accessible travel

Address: 22 Healesville-Kinglake Rd, Healesville

Caravan Parks, Glamping and camping

The Yarra Valley is overflowing with natural beauty, and under canvas is a great way to connect with the environment.

Park Lane Holiday Park

This is one seriously creative holiday park . There are cabins that sleep up to eight decked out in various ways like retro, contemporary, wheelchair accessible and studio style. For something quirky, a couple of retired Melbourne W Class trams have been lovingly restored and transformed into a luxe experience for eight with ensuites, a full kitchen and a private hot tub.

Glamping pods are for two or a family style, one with an ensuite, and a range of powered and unpowered sites are scattered within nature. There’s a licensed kiosk onsite, as well as two camp kitchens and fire pits, and a paradise for kids with a giant jumping pad, pump track for bikes, recreation room, playground, swimming pool and tennis court.

kids enjoying at the giant jumping pad, Park Lane Holiday Park, Yarra Valley — Kids can play at the giant jumping pad.

Surrounded by bush with Badger Creek running alongside, the park is a five-minute drive to Healesville for the Healesville Sanctuary, shopping, restaurants and cafes.

a family sitting outside a glamping tent at Park Lane Holiday Park, Yarra Valley — You’ll also find stylish glamping tents.

Best for: families, accessible travel, couples,

Address: 419 Don Rd, Healesville

Hipcamp – Yarra Valley vineyard views

The equivalent of Airbnb for camping, Hipcamp , a USA initiative, is starting to make a splash in Australia. The two hectares of grassy level land framed by shady trees and a vineyard has five sites with plenty of space for kids (big and small) to explore. There’s a winery for tastings and food a short walk away, and plenty of hiking trails nearby.

Hipcamp with Yarra Valley vineyard views — Hipcamp lets you stay next to lush vineyards.

Already rated as a verified ‘star host’ Robert H people are discovering this style of accommodation as an enlightening and sustainable way of travelling. Hicamp is hidden from the world, but only a five-minute drive to Lilydale for supermarkets, restaurants and services.

a 4WD at Hipcamp, Yarra Valley — You can set up either your caravan or tent.

Best for: Travellers with a sense of adventure. BYO tent, caravan, camper trailer etc. Totally off-grid with no potable water, power or bathroom facilities. Pet-friendly, families, sustainable tourism

Address: 600 Thonemans Road, Hoddles Creek

Discover the best restaurants in the Yarra Valley.

Just over an hour from Melbourne, spectacular walking and hiking trails encompass ancient landscapes, forested ridgelines and volcanic peaks.

Just a short drive from the city, the urban sprawl gives way to rolling hills, mineral springs, and lush forests that will have you feeling like you’re in the bucolic countryside of France. Encompassing Daylesford , the Macedon Ranges, Castlemaine and the Central Goldfields, this pocket of Victoria is a region where nature, art, and wellness intertwine. Heritage towns hum with creativity, good food and wine, and welcoming locals. While Daylesford hikes, and those nearby, offer the chance to take a pause and reconnect with nature.

1. Hanging Rock Summit Walk

Etched into folklore, few places in Australia carry as much mystique as Hanging Rock. Rising dramatically from the plains near Woodend, this volcanic mamelon offers a beautiful nature walk. The walk begins at a gentle pace, weaving through shaded woodland before it gets a little steeper as the path starts to climb and twist to the summit. From here, you’ll have views that stretch across the Macedon Ranges. The walk is roughly 1.8 kilometres return, but the real reward lies in standing among the weathered boulders, feeling the age and energy of the earth beneath your feet.

2. Macedon Ranges Walking Trail

Macedon Ranges Walking Trail camel's hump lookout — Walk to Camel’s Hump. (Image: Clair Derwort)

The Macedon Ranges Walking Trail traverses around 19 kilometres of forest and mountain landscapes. The full trail is a six-hour circuit, with most of the walk being a grade three; however, you don’t have to tackle it all at once. There are shorter walks that will take you through the tall mountain ash forests, to tranquil picnic areas, and sweeping views from Camels Hump and the Memorial Cross. The best times of year to head out are autumn, when the mountain turns into a tapestry of crimson and gold, and spring, when wildflowers brighten the trail.

3. Mount Alexander Traverse

Towering above the goldfields near Castlemaine, Mount Alexander is a granite giant that offers some great bushwalking trails. The Mount Alexander Traverse winds along the mountain’s rocky spine through dry eucalypt forest that opens up in sections to reveal beautiful panoramas across Loddon Valley and all the way to the distant Grampians. Once a site of ancient volcanic activity (and later a gathering place for the Dja Dja Wurrung people), the mountain’s granite tors are now quiet and create a beautiful, serene atmosphere for a moment of reflection while walking.

4. Murmuring Walk

Murmuring Walk daylesford hikes — Circle the picturesque Sanatorium Lake.

Located an easy drive from Daylesford, Murmuring Walk offers something a little different. Circling Sanatorium Lake, this free audio-guided walk aims to immerse you in the rhythms of Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country by blending the sounds of nature with a multi-layered soundtrack. There are two routes to explore while you listen: a shorter loop around the lake itself and a longer circuit that extends deeper into the woodland.

5. La Gerche Forest Walk

Located in Creswick, the La Gerche Forest Walk honours the legacy of John La Gerche, a 19th-century forester who championed the regeneration of the then gold-rush-ravaged land. Today, over 100 years later, his replanting efforts have grown into a living cathedral of towering pines, oaks, and native gums. As you meander along the 2.2-kilometre circuit, you’ll find interpretive panels along the way that help tell the story of La Gerche’s vision, so you can learn as you wander.

6. Sailors Falls Loop

Just outside Daylesford, Sailors Falls tumbles through a fern-lined gorge, fed by mineral springs. Thought to be named after the sailors who jumped ship to seek gold in the area during the 1850s gold rush, the loop walk begins at the car park and descends through a cool, shaded gully to the base of the falls. From here, you’ll make the climb back via the mineral springs. It’s a short but enchanting walk – about 1.5 kilometres in total, so make a day of it by packing a picnic to sit by the springs; you’ll feel worlds away from the city.

7. Paddys Ranges Loop Walk

Further north, the Paddys Ranges State Park loop reveals a different side of Victoria’s Heartland – dry forest, golden light and hints of a gold-rush past. This protected reserve is a stronghold of box-ironbark woodland, providing vital refuge for endangered species. In spring, the forest floor is awash with the colour of over 230 species of wildflowers, so a springtime walk is a must-do. As you walk the 4.5-kilometre loop trail, keep an eye out for remnants of old mine shafts and rusted relics from the prospectors who once sought their fortunes here.

8. Mount Franklin Summit Walk

An extinct volcano turned picnic ground, Mount Franklin (known as Lalgambook to the Dja Dja Wurrung people) is one of the region’s quiet marvels. The summit walk follows a narrow, winding path through native forest to the crater’s rim, where you’ll get glimpses of farmland and forest below. It’s a moderate climb – just over an hour return, so it can easily be done if you’re camping in the surrounding reserve for a weekend nature retreat.

The trails of Victoria’s Heartland offer a chance to reconnect with the landscape, local history and yourself. Start planning your next adventure at daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au.

The best Yarra Valley accommodation for your perfect getaway