Day Trips from Melbourne – Yarra Valley

An excellent and easy day trip from Melbourne, Yarra Valley is an ideal day trip destination to explore the myriad of experiences awaiting visitors in this stunning region.

The Yarra Valley is a region renowned for its picturesque landscapes, world-class wineries and artisanal produce. Within its borders, you’ll find charming towns like Healesville, Yarra Glen, Yering and Warburton, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Yarra Valley.

Getting there

Getting to the Yarra Valley from Melbourne is a breeze, offering various transportation choices for every type of traveller. If you’re up for a road trip, driving is the most flexible option. Take the Eastern Freeway out of Melbourne, then follow the signs towards Lilydale and onto the Warburton Highway to head towards Warburton or Maroondah Highway to head to Healesville. To go to Yarra Glen or Yering split off Maroondah Highway onto the Melba Highway.  For those without wheels, public transportation is readily available. Catch a train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Lilydale, then hop on a connecting bus to reach your desired destination within the valley. Whether you’re driving solo or opting for public transit, the journey to the Yarra Valley promises scenic delights at every turn.

Hot Air Ballooning in the Yarra Valley

Rise and shine for an extraordinary adventure in the Yarra Valley! Start your day trip with an exhilarating hot air balloon flight over this picturesque region, soaking in the mesmerizing views as the sun bathes the landscape in golden light. The day starts very early in Yarra Glen but is totally worth it.. 

The feeling of gently rising up into the air is an unforgettable experience, providing ample opportunities for breathtaking photos as you glide gracefully above the vineyards. I was so surprised at how quiet it is up there – I just wasn’t expecting that. The flight is a one hour experience and one that should be on your bucket list.  Take the Yarra Valley Balloon Flight at Sunrise. 

Breakfast

Next you will be wanting to grab some breakfast and there’s no shortage of cozy cafés and quaint bakeries to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in freshly brewed coffee and scrumptious pastries at places like Wildgrains Bakery at 201a Maroondah Hwy, Healesville or Yarra Glen Cafe at 7/36 Bell Street, Yarra Glen, where every bite is a taste of local goodness. If you are in Healesville I also suggest Beechworth Bakery.  It’s so popular that there is usually a line outside leading up to lunchtime!

Healesville Sanctuary

Who doesn’t love a cute koala or kangaroo?  Next on your list is Healesville Sanctuary where you can see emu, koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, platypus, dingos and more.  To get there turn right into Badger Creek Road, just past the township centre. From there, road signs will guide you to Healesville Sanctuary.

Lunchtime – Wineries

It should be time for lunch now so head to one of the many top class wineries in the area.  The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine making areas.  Many of the wineries have restaurants as well as wine tasting rooms. I would highly recommend the Rochford Wines Estate, just out of Healesville which has a restaurant and pizzeria.  The staff are very friendly and helpful.  During the year Rochford also hosts music concerts and some of the artists have been Aha and Rick Astley, Elton John, Rob Thomas, Bryan Ferry, Robbie Williams, KC & the Sunshine Band, Cyndi Lauper, Blondie, Simply Red, The Black Keys and Mariah Carey to name a few.  Events coming up in the next few months are Simply Red, Matchbox 20 and Suzi Quatro.  

Other wineries in the area to visit are: Levantine Hill Estate, Yering Station, Balgownie Estate, Oakridge Wines, St Hubert’s Winery, De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate, Chandon, Dominique Portet Winery, Kellybrook Winery and hundreds more. You could spend many days exploring the vineyards of the Yarra Valley!

Food, culture or nature

In the afternoon you can make a choice between artisanal food and drink choices, cultural discoveries or nature walks.

Food & Drink

For food and drink a trip to the Four Pillars Distillery is a must. Four Pillars Gin is a craft distillery based in Healesville. The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery is a sweet destination where you can indulge your love of chocolate. It’s located at 35 Old Healesville Road, Corner Melba Highway, Yarra Glen. CherryHill Orchards stands as Victoria’s premier destination for cherry picking, delight in hand-selecting from over 30 exquisite cherry varieties, each offering the pinnacle of flavor, directly from the boughs of the trees. It’s located at 474 Queens Road, Wandin East. 

Culture

The TarraWarra Museum of Art, nestled amidst the vast landscapes of the Yarra Valley, offers an ideal retreat for rejuvenation and immersion in the harmonious blend of nature and art.  Year-round, the museum showcases captivating and avant-garde exhibitions within its acclaimed architectural marvel, seamlessly integrated into the undulating hills of Australia’s pristine natural terrain. TarraWarra Museum of Art.  Take an hour or two to explore the Coombe Yarra Valley – Melba Estate Gallery. The gallery celebrates Dame Nellie Melba, an iconic artist renowned for her pursuit of perfection and opulent lifestyle, providing visitors with a glimpse into Australia’s first diva’s world. Featuring works by notable artists like Hans Heisen, Margaret Preston, and Arthur Streeton, alongside Melba’s personal collection of objets d’art, fashion, jewelry, and fine art, the gallery offers a rotating display of elegance, style, and luxury from the period, allowing for a genuine appreciation of Melba’s exquisite taste and influence.

Nature

Alowyn Gardens aim to offer an enriching and educational experience for garden enthusiasts and anyone seeking the tranquility of a well-designed garden. Emphasizing comfort and shelter, the gardens feature prominent signage displaying plant names, facilitating visitors’ learning and appreciation of the diverse flora on display. Whether one’s interest lies in gardening or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Alowyn Gardens cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring a memorable and informative visit for all.  The Wisteria archway is one of the most instagrammable views in the valley.  The Gardens and Nursery are at 1210 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen.

Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Warratina Lavender Farm, an hour’s drive from Melbourne at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, in the beautiful Yarra Valley. Open all year round at 105 Quayle Road, Wandin North.

La La Falls walks (which means ‘Welcome Welcome’ in the local indigenous language) has been enchanting and delighting visitors since the 1880s. The walk to the falls is about 1.6km one way and takes about 30 minutes. It is uphill with some steep sections and steps, but well worth the walk, which takes you through pretty fern gullies and over stone bridges. Here’s how to get there: At the township of Warburton, turn right into Park Road, then left onto La La Avenue shortly after. Signage is present at the entrance to the site at Irruka Road.

Evening in the Yarra Valley

Grab dinner at Herd Bar & Grill (177-179 Maroondah Highway, Healesville) or Sanctuary House Restaurant (326 Badger Creek Road, Healesville). Attend a film or show at The Memo in Healesville or the Arts Centre, Warburton.  Head home after a rewarding day!

Insider Tips

As you plan your day trip to the Yarra Valley, here are some insider tips to make the most of your experience. Firstly, don’t miss out on visiting some of the top wineries in the region, such as Domaine Chandon, De Bortoli and Yering Station, where you can sample exquisite wines amidst stunning vineyard landscapes. Additionally, make sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes to ensure a comfortable day out exploring the valley’s attractions.

When it comes to safety, always remember to stay hydrated, especially if you’re out hiking or biking in the warmer months. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and dress accordingly, as the weather in the valley can be unpredictable at times. Moreover, be mindful of local etiquette when visiting wineries and other attractions, such as respecting the property and following any guidelines provided by staff.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable day trip to the Yarra Valley, soaking in its natural beauty and indulging in its world-class wines and attractions.

Interested in more day trips from Melbourne? Check out these posts… Day Trips from Melbourne – The Dandenong Ranges Day Trips from Melbourne – Mornington Peninsula Day Trips from Melbourne – Phillip Island Day Trips from Melbourne – Daylesford Day Trips from Melbourne – Great Ocean Road

Conclusion

A day trip to the Yarra Valley is a truly unforgettable experience filled with stunning scenery, delicious food, and exquisite wines. From sunrise balloon rides to leisurely wine tastings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As you wrap up your adventure, take a moment to reflect on the highlights of the day, from the breathtaking views to the warm hospitality of the locals. And while your journey may be ending, the excitement doesn’t have to stop there. Melbourne boasts many other fantastic day trip destinations waiting to be explored. Have you checked out my posts on the following day trips from Melbourne – Phillip Island, the Dandenongs, Daylesford, Great Ocean Road, Mornington Peninsula? 

So, why wait? Start planning your next adventure and discover the magic of the Yarra Valley for yourself!