Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley
4.5
About
A wine region about an hour-and-a-quarter's drive from Melbourne.
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Top ways to experience Yarra Valley
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
27 within 3 miles
Attractions
75 within 6 miles
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.5
64 reviews
Excellent
46
Very good
15
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
3
Gumtree2016
Melbourne, Australia11 contributions
Jan 2016 • Couples
I’ve been to about 50 countries and six continents. I’ve also traveled each of the six states, and two territories that make up my home country, Australia. I’ve even been through more states of the USA than most USA residents.
But I’ve only recently realised I’ve barely scratched the surface of the playground at my doorstep.
I live in the Yarra Valley. The valley is known especially for its wineries - of which there are over 80 - but the Yarra Valley has plenty of other places of interest, and things to do. Strawberry farms abound, and many are open to the public for ten months of the year. Personally, we buy the 'seconds' - at $1 a kilogram, the price can't be beaten.
Then there's cherry picking in season, stoned fruit in abundance, beverages, cheeses, condiments and a whole range of other produce that hail from the Valley.
It's not uncommon for us to see hot air balloons pass by, having taken off from a local field, but if sight seeing in a small plane is more to your taste, Coldstream Airport will fit the bill.
Healesville Sanctuary, a zoo specialising in native Australian animals, takes a proud place here, and the famous little train, Puffing Billy, is a short drive through beautiful forest to the south, and ready to take you on a ride in open air carriages through the bush.
If you come in the Spring you could find yourself immersed in the activities of the annual Tessellar Tulip Festival that celebrates spring with a month of family and music events, and open gardens showcasing brilliant tulip displays.
There is plenty of accommodation to suit all comers; masses of walking trails; even beer making to rival the Germans.:) You can picnic at the Maroondah Dam and walk across its wall; play golf on world class courses; and eat your fill at the many restaurants that dot the valley.
A more recent addition is the Chocolaterie, near Yarra Glen, where you can watch chocolates being made, enjoy refreshments as you gaze over the soul-refreshing views ; purchase pricey chocolate made in a large array of creative shapes and sizes; and see amazing chocolate sculptures. If chocolate isn’t your thing, go to the ice-cream bar for delicious ice-creams and sorbets, or just go outside and play with your children on the grass. Oh, and don’t forget to take advantage of the free chocolate bits near the door.
Take a drive to the Mount Dandenong Observatory where you will be able to gaze 30km across the suburbs to the city, and across Port Phillip Bay. That’s the You-Yang’s over the bay in the distance a little to your left, and that’s Mt Macedon rising from the plains to your right.
Or just drive from one end of the valley to the other. I love the descent from the north. The gum trees are impressive (though admittedly don’t rival the redwoods of California), and the road sweeps its way down gullies and between rock face that has been cut to make way for the road, then follows the undulations of the hills until it finally reaches the valley floor and continues south in a pleasant fashion.
For a change, get off the main roads. Take the C506 from just east of Launching Place, then a little over two km later at Don Valley turn right onto Don Road - still the C506 - to Healesville. It takes you into the foothills, through some forest and along some dirt road. Turn left at the end, onto the Maroondah Highway in Healesville, and just on your left are the well patronised Beechworth Bakery and the Innocent Bystander. Time for refreshments.
Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, go to Warburton and do the 15 - 20 minute drive to the top of Mount Donna Buang, have a picnic, climb the lookout tower and enjoy the fantastic views, then on your descent, take the right hand turn to Healesville, just a km or two from the summit. This unpaved road is closed in winter - for good reason - and is an adventure in itself. Very slow, very narrow, and hardly used - but also invigorating and beautiful. Just don’t be in a hurry - and best not to do it if there’s been a lot of rain.
Well, after all that, I’ve convinced myself that I need to do some more exploring of this beautiful area I call home. There are yet miles to travel, stones unturned, trails to trek, and friends to meet.
See you there!
But I’ve only recently realised I’ve barely scratched the surface of the playground at my doorstep.
I live in the Yarra Valley. The valley is known especially for its wineries - of which there are over 80 - but the Yarra Valley has plenty of other places of interest, and things to do. Strawberry farms abound, and many are open to the public for ten months of the year. Personally, we buy the 'seconds' - at $1 a kilogram, the price can't be beaten.
Then there's cherry picking in season, stoned fruit in abundance, beverages, cheeses, condiments and a whole range of other produce that hail from the Valley.
It's not uncommon for us to see hot air balloons pass by, having taken off from a local field, but if sight seeing in a small plane is more to your taste, Coldstream Airport will fit the bill.
Healesville Sanctuary, a zoo specialising in native Australian animals, takes a proud place here, and the famous little train, Puffing Billy, is a short drive through beautiful forest to the south, and ready to take you on a ride in open air carriages through the bush.
If you come in the Spring you could find yourself immersed in the activities of the annual Tessellar Tulip Festival that celebrates spring with a month of family and music events, and open gardens showcasing brilliant tulip displays.
There is plenty of accommodation to suit all comers; masses of walking trails; even beer making to rival the Germans.:) You can picnic at the Maroondah Dam and walk across its wall; play golf on world class courses; and eat your fill at the many restaurants that dot the valley.
A more recent addition is the Chocolaterie, near Yarra Glen, where you can watch chocolates being made, enjoy refreshments as you gaze over the soul-refreshing views ; purchase pricey chocolate made in a large array of creative shapes and sizes; and see amazing chocolate sculptures. If chocolate isn’t your thing, go to the ice-cream bar for delicious ice-creams and sorbets, or just go outside and play with your children on the grass. Oh, and don’t forget to take advantage of the free chocolate bits near the door.
Take a drive to the Mount Dandenong Observatory where you will be able to gaze 30km across the suburbs to the city, and across Port Phillip Bay. That’s the You-Yang’s over the bay in the distance a little to your left, and that’s Mt Macedon rising from the plains to your right.
Or just drive from one end of the valley to the other. I love the descent from the north. The gum trees are impressive (though admittedly don’t rival the redwoods of California), and the road sweeps its way down gullies and between rock face that has been cut to make way for the road, then follows the undulations of the hills until it finally reaches the valley floor and continues south in a pleasant fashion.
For a change, get off the main roads. Take the C506 from just east of Launching Place, then a little over two km later at Don Valley turn right onto Don Road - still the C506 - to Healesville. It takes you into the foothills, through some forest and along some dirt road. Turn left at the end, onto the Maroondah Highway in Healesville, and just on your left are the well patronised Beechworth Bakery and the Innocent Bystander. Time for refreshments.
Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, go to Warburton and do the 15 - 20 minute drive to the top of Mount Donna Buang, have a picnic, climb the lookout tower and enjoy the fantastic views, then on your descent, take the right hand turn to Healesville, just a km or two from the summit. This unpaved road is closed in winter - for good reason - and is an adventure in itself. Very slow, very narrow, and hardly used - but also invigorating and beautiful. Just don’t be in a hurry - and best not to do it if there’s been a lot of rain.
Well, after all that, I’ve convinced myself that I need to do some more exploring of this beautiful area I call home. There are yet miles to travel, stones unturned, trails to trek, and friends to meet.
See you there!
Written January 26, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
fatgirl_84
Singapore, Singapore134 contributions
Dec 2012 • Family
Where in the world can you get clean fresh air, scenic view of vast plains and enjoy the best variety of good quality wine? I discovered the beautiful Yarra Valley with the help of the awesome guiding from David, Melbourne Private Tours. As we couldn't drive around without an international license, getting a private tour will be perfect as Yarra Valley was huge and might be tricky for first timers like us to drive on our own. We are very glad to engage David's service as he was an awesome guide. His seamless coordination and arrangement for private guiding trip to Yarra Valley, made this trip super amazing. This turns out to be the best decision we made as a group.
The day started with a beautiful drive that took us through the suburbs and peripherals of Melbourne city and that drive gave us a glimpse of people who live 30 to 40 minutes drive from the busiest part of Melbourne city center. The change of tempo from fast to slow helps relax and rejuvenate our soul and body.
With the help of David's explanations ,we got to know more about the history and origins of Melbourne and Yarra Valley. Our first stop to start the lovely morning was a trip to Yarra Valley Dairy where we got to savor on some lovely homemade cheese platter and coffee that help to kick start our morning. The relish was amazingly fresh and delicious!
The next stop was driving pass the elegant Chateau Yering, a gracious five-star property that provided us with some stunning aerial view. We were told that a night's stay at this hotel will cost around AUD$500 per night.
We drove through the small town of Yarra Glen to see some specialty shops before landing on the famous Domaine Chandon. Owned by the 4th richest man in the world, He is the proud owner of LV group/Christian Dior and famous champagne Moet & Chandon in France. The owner spared no expense in making this winery a masterpiece in the heart of the Yarra Valley. The architectural is France influenced- Simple but Charming. Needless to say, the location sits on the best part of Yarra Valley and visitors are treated to the breath taking view. This Winery offers wine and sparkling wine tasting for all visitors at only $5 AUD that can be refunded when you make a purchase of any bottle of wine/champagne with them.
Next stop, we were taken to another Italian winemaking house- DOMINIQUE PORTET, where private tasting was arranged for us to sample wine straight from the oak barrels. This winery specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It was a great experience as the 10th generation of winemakers in this place are the live wire and seeing their enthusiasm in their craft has compelled my partner to make the biggest purchase during our trip to Yarra Valley. He bought the best wine they had.
David arranged for an awesome lunch at the Terra Warra estate. Another stunning place I must say... and the lunch was really a treat!
Took alot of photograph at this estate as it was really really beautiful!
David took us through Healesville Sanctuary to see some of the most interesting wildlife like echidna, platypus, koala, wallaby, kangeroo etc...
That concludes our day trip to Yarra Valley. Definitely worth the time and money to head out into the open for some fresh air!
The day started with a beautiful drive that took us through the suburbs and peripherals of Melbourne city and that drive gave us a glimpse of people who live 30 to 40 minutes drive from the busiest part of Melbourne city center. The change of tempo from fast to slow helps relax and rejuvenate our soul and body.
With the help of David's explanations ,we got to know more about the history and origins of Melbourne and Yarra Valley. Our first stop to start the lovely morning was a trip to Yarra Valley Dairy where we got to savor on some lovely homemade cheese platter and coffee that help to kick start our morning. The relish was amazingly fresh and delicious!
The next stop was driving pass the elegant Chateau Yering, a gracious five-star property that provided us with some stunning aerial view. We were told that a night's stay at this hotel will cost around AUD$500 per night.
We drove through the small town of Yarra Glen to see some specialty shops before landing on the famous Domaine Chandon. Owned by the 4th richest man in the world, He is the proud owner of LV group/Christian Dior and famous champagne Moet & Chandon in France. The owner spared no expense in making this winery a masterpiece in the heart of the Yarra Valley. The architectural is France influenced- Simple but Charming. Needless to say, the location sits on the best part of Yarra Valley and visitors are treated to the breath taking view. This Winery offers wine and sparkling wine tasting for all visitors at only $5 AUD that can be refunded when you make a purchase of any bottle of wine/champagne with them.
Next stop, we were taken to another Italian winemaking house- DOMINIQUE PORTET, where private tasting was arranged for us to sample wine straight from the oak barrels. This winery specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It was a great experience as the 10th generation of winemakers in this place are the live wire and seeing their enthusiasm in their craft has compelled my partner to make the biggest purchase during our trip to Yarra Valley. He bought the best wine they had.
David arranged for an awesome lunch at the Terra Warra estate. Another stunning place I must say... and the lunch was really a treat!
Took alot of photograph at this estate as it was really really beautiful!
David took us through Healesville Sanctuary to see some of the most interesting wildlife like echidna, platypus, koala, wallaby, kangeroo etc...
That concludes our day trip to Yarra Valley. Definitely worth the time and money to head out into the open for some fresh air!
Written December 16, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cameron S
Melbourne, Australia5 contributions
Jun 2015 • Friends
Enjoy a day of fresh country air as you explore the most scenic wine region in Australia. The Yarra valley is a cool climate wine region that offers excellent Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The best area to explore is around Maddens Ln, Gruyere where you can visit Coldstream Hills, Yarra Yering and many more boutique wineries. Check out my profile to see a range of reviews on wineries, restaurants and other places of interest.
Written June 6, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kate B
Melbourne, Australia7 contributions
Feb 2013 • Friends
We were part of a tour group with GrayLine. I really regret taking my guests there. I was so utterly humiliated in front of everyone when I asked POLITELY if we could be seated elsewhere instead of the assigned table.
One of the staff (big lady) yelled back: "Just sit where you are given!"
How is this for reception?! She didn't have to shout back. She could have just given a polite reply back.
My guests and I were shocked into total silence. That trip has traumatized me since that day and I never take my guests there again. I came home and did ALL the research on Yarra Valley to seek out other better wineries. And there were so many of them. Like 120-150?
I regretted not doing my research and blindly signed with a tour before that dreadful trip. Laziness is what got me.
I will NEVER ever return again. Nor will I recommend anyone there.
1. Bad service
2. Decor wasn't much to be excited about
3. After visiting other wineries in the same region, I wonder why they are even called a winery.
One of the staff (big lady) yelled back: "Just sit where you are given!"
How is this for reception?! She didn't have to shout back. She could have just given a polite reply back.
My guests and I were shocked into total silence. That trip has traumatized me since that day and I never take my guests there again. I came home and did ALL the research on Yarra Valley to seek out other better wineries. And there were so many of them. Like 120-150?
I regretted not doing my research and blindly signed with a tour before that dreadful trip. Laziness is what got me.
I will NEVER ever return again. Nor will I recommend anyone there.
1. Bad service
2. Decor wasn't much to be excited about
3. After visiting other wineries in the same region, I wonder why they are even called a winery.
Written January 28, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca B
45 contributions
Aug 2014
Wow!! One of the most beautiful drives I have ever done. I was there on the coldest weekend Victoria had seen in years so there was snow on the ferns. Great cider and ale trail through the Yarra Valley. Even though winter is cold I would have to say it is the best time of year. Lush green rolling hills and wood fires, can't beat it.
Written August 5, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jennifer S
Melbourne8 contributions
May 2013 • Friends
My husband and brother-in-law and I had a fantastic day trip to the Yarra Valley. It is a beautiful, easy drive. We ate a delicious luncheon meal at Chandon and they did the full wine tasting there (I was designated driver). Then we visited Boat O' Craigo, Yearing Station and Train Trak. We have become devotees of Boat O'Craigo Shiraz. Train Trak's restaurant looked really good as well.
All in - don't miss this day trip!!
All in - don't miss this day trip!!
Written July 8, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hanachiaki
Singapore, Singapore46 contributions
Mar 2012 • Friends
This is a must visit place/tour when you are in Melbourne! Get to visit different wineries over here and some wine tasting. Choose AATKings tour company as they have a good guide/driver to bring you around. Guide/driver name is Colin.
Written March 31, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
StKFlossy
Melbourne52 contributions
The Yarra Valley is only about an hour out of Melbourne but I was really surprised how different it was out there. There was a real atmosphere of farm country, rolling hills, the air was fresh and clean and there was lots of farm animals strolling around the paddocks.
The wineries are close to each other there so it minimised our travelling time between them -we got to squeeze in some extra visits, like to Coldstream Brewery (gorgeous little brewery and great cider). Rochford's Wines as a lunch destination was fab -the fudge there is so good, peanut butter was of course the best flavour ever! It was a lovely relaxing day and I can't wait to head out there again!
The wineries are close to each other there so it minimised our travelling time between them -we got to squeeze in some extra visits, like to Coldstream Brewery (gorgeous little brewery and great cider). Rochford's Wines as a lunch destination was fab -the fudge there is so good, peanut butter was of course the best flavour ever! It was a lovely relaxing day and I can't wait to head out there again!
Written March 30, 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicci C
Melbourne, Australia65 contributions
May 2019 • Solo
This is a fabulous region with great wineries to choose from and lots of food and wine pairing and dining experiences at wineries with a view. Just over an hour out of Melbourne City Centre. The most popular wines for the region are chardonnay and pinot noir
Written June 16, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
N H
Melbourne421 contributions
Jan 2017 • Family
Loved the Yarra valley. There is so much to see. Gorgeous wineries, views, chocolaterie and more. Also it's actually very child friendly. Look forward to coming back and spending more time here.
Written January 4, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
No questions have been asked about this experience
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing