Guide to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

The Yarra Valley is Victoria's oldest wine region, dating all the way back to 1838. Sip on some sparkling bubbles at your choice of over 70 wineries, like the sustainable De Bortoli. Many offer behind-the-scenes tours of their establishments.

Breathe in the cool mountain air through the open-sided carriages of one of the world's finest preserved steam railways. Puffing Billy stops at historic railway stations and offers views of farmland all the way to Port Phillip Bay.

Perfectly sculptured into the Healesville landscape, the TarraWarra Museum of Art showcases Australian works, featuring some of Australia's most acclaimed artists including Brett Whiteley, Fred Williams, Jeffrey Smart and Arthur Boyd.

Enjoy a hearty country meal at the rustic-chic Piggery Café, located in the piggery of the historic Burnham Beeches estate. Perch yourself on the outside tables overlooking lawn bowls, croquet and bocce pitches popular with guests.

Not only can you see and smell the lavender fragrance at Warratina Lavender Farm, but you can also taste it with their handmade lavender ice cream! Learn how lavender is grown and processed with their lavender information sessions.

From November to January, pluck juicy cherries straight from the trees at CherryHill Orchard. Don't miss your chance to try cherry-flavoured treats, too, like cherry ice cream and tea. 

Take in the stunning views of the Yarra Valley as you taste the superb artisan and handcrafted Yarra Valley Dairy cheeses. Made using the freshest cow’s milk provided by neighbouring dairy farms and locally sourced goats milk.

Hear the kookaburras or spot a lyrebird at the Dandenong Ranges National Park, home to some of Victoria's most breathtaking waterfalls and trails through gentle hills, past rivers and into the mountains and forests, where wildlife abounds.

At Healesville Sanctuary meet majestic birds, reptiles, amphibians, and more. Book an exclusive tour, where a ranger will share stories about native wildlife as you get close to koalas, kangaroos or even splash with a platypus.

Surround yourself with nature at the Piaf Day Spa, a rainforest sanctuary that has 360 degree views of the ancient rainforest ferns in every treatment room. They offer many packages including treatments that can be tailored to your needs.

Sip on a gin and tonic in the sunshine at the famous Four Pillars Distillery in the Yarra Valley. Book a spot at their G&T tastings where you will embark on a tasting adventure through a range of their award-winning gins.