Victoria's regions
Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges
Escape to the Yarra Valley for indulgent food and wine, and disappear into fern glades and forests in the Dandenong Ranges.
Hot air balloon over the Yarra Valley.
Discover
Take an early morning balloon flight, meet passionate food and wine producers, and encounter a platypus at Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley. Wander the walking trails, meander the villages and discover the hidden delights of the Dandenong Ranges among its scenic winding roads, abundant artist studios, craft stores and renowned gardens.
Find out more
Highlights
Parks & gardens
Alfred Nicholas Gardens
Meander through this gorgeous historic garden, a scenic haven with a picturesque lake, a boathouse, a canopy of ash trees and vibrant blooms year-round.
National parks & reserves
Dandenong Ranges National Park
Take a relaxing walk through forests of towering mountain ash in the Dandenong Ranges National Park, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne's CBD.
Distilleries
Four Pillars Distillery
Four Pillars Gin is Australia's number one craft spirit. Since launch in 2013, Four Pillars gin's have received the highest accolades at spirit competitions...
Wildlife, zoos & farms
Healesville Sanctuary
Watch for waking koalas and peek at a joey in a kangaroo's pouch, meet keepers or observe vets in the animal hospital, all in an Aussie bush setting.
Walking & hiking
Kokoda Memorial Walk (1000 Steps)
Make your way up the steep, 1000 step-climb to experience a tiny sense of the exhaustion felt by Australian soldiers following the Kokoda Trail.
Food & wine
Local produce
Gather regional produce for an unforgettable picnic lunch with fresh Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and ice creams.
History & heritage
Puffing Billy Railway
All aboard for a ride on Australia's oldest steam railway, through thick forests and lush fern gullies, or travel first class for olden-times romance.
Restaurants
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong and Scenic Lookout
At SkyHigh Mount Dandenong you will get some perspective and escape the noise and pressures of the concrete jungle. Less than an hour from the Melbourne...
Art galleries
TarraWarra Museum of Art
Stunning architecture, contemporary art and rolling hills: see magnificent sites inside and out at this cultural icon in the Yarra Valley.
National parks & reserves
Yarra Ranges National Park
Cradling the Yarra River headwaters and much of Melbourne's water catchment, the park features majestic Mountain Ash trees.Visit the Rainforest Gallery...
Discover the region
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Five of the best
What's on
Festivals
Healesville Music Festival
26 - 28 Nov 2021
Healesville Music Festival is a celebration of community in the Yarra Valley. Music of all genres will be on offer: rock, blues, soul, roots, folk and...
Gardens & agriculture
Tesselaar Tulip Festival
11 Sep 2021
See almost a million tulips on display at the Tesselaar Tulip Festival, the colour is absolutely amazing.In addition to the flowers, there is live entertainment...
Festivals
Rocky Road Festival at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
01 - 31 May 2021
The classic Rocky Road treat will get a Chocolaterie makeover with 31 rocking flavours available at the Yarra Valley’s sweetest destination throughout...
Dining
Rob Dolan Wine Dinner at Fondata 1872
30 Apr 2021
Experience an evening of wine wandering as winemaker and all round lovely guy, Rob Dolan shares his winemaking journey and discusses the classic varietals...
Dining
Yarra Valley Igloo High Tea Experience
28 May - 10 Jun 2021
Enjoy an Igloo High Tea Experience at Deloraine Homestead, Gladysdale, in the Yarra Valley.The experience includes the following:- A 2.5 hour experience...
Motor sport
Targa Florio Australia
15 - 18 Nov 2021
The iconic Targa Florio has been a much-loved tradition and motor event in Sicily since 1906. Today the Targa Florio is considered the world’s most historic,...
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Food & wine
Yarra Valley wine region
Sip, sniff, and savour fine wines within the hallowed walls of historic Victorian viticultural institutions, or discover secret winery gems.
Things to do
Family activities
Occupy both the biggest and smallest family members in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, with budget accommodation, attractions and fun events.
Nature and wildlife
Wildlife
Encounter curious Australian animals in regional national parks, or get up close to your favourite creatures at the famous Healesville Sanctuary.
Things to do
Road trips and itineraries
Take a tour on one of the most scenic routes in Victoria within easy reach of Melbourne, tasting fine wine and produce, and seeing wildlife and flora.