The Yarra Valley is one of Australia's oldest wine regions, first planted in the 1830s and revived from the 1960s onward into the cool-climate powerhouse it is today — particularly known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It sits close enough to Melbourne for an easy day trip, but genuinely rewards a longer stay.
Beyond the cellar doors, the valley backs onto the Dandenong Ranges — cool, fern-filled forest just a short drive further into the hills, and a completely different landscape to the vineyards below.
Highlights
Cellar Doors
Dozens of wineries across the valley, from long-established names to small boutique producers — most with cellar door tastings and many with restaurants attached.
Healesville Sanctuary
A leading Australian wildlife sanctuary — koalas, platypus, and a genuinely excellent bird-of-prey show, all in a bushland setting.
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
A popular family stop alongside the wineries — chocolate, ice cream and views over the valley.
The Dandenong Ranges
Cool-climate forest a short drive from the valley floor — home to the historic Puffing Billy steam railway and the towering Sherbrooke Forest.
A Melbourne Day Trip, or More
Plenty of visitors do the Yarra Valley as a single day from Melbourne, and it works well that way — but an overnight stay gives you time for both the wineries and the Dandenongs without rushing either.