The Yarra Valley, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD, has so much to offer: from wine estates and breweries to peaceful nature walks and wildlife sanctuaries, and everything in between. Despite its proximity to the city, a day trip to the Yarra Valley will transport you to a new world, one where you can truly wind down and appreciate the serenity. If you’re wondering how to spend your day in the Yarra Valley, here are three of our top recommendations.
Head to a winery
The Yarra Valley is packed full of award winning wineries, however if you’re not sure where to start, De Bortoli is a fantastic option. De Bortoli has a huge array of wines on offer – from sparkling to shiraz to pinot grigio – which makes sense given its vineyards stretch across over 240 hectares of land. There’s also a dedicated cheese room, named after Australia’s Godfather of cheese making, Richard Thomas.
Go on a nature walk
The Cumberland Walk, one of many fantastic nature walks throughout the Yarra Valley, is a 4km medium-difficulty circuit that takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Starting at the Cambarville picnic area car park, you’ll walk among some of the tallest flowering trees in the world, pass through rare mature-age mountain ash and gaze in awe at the “Big Tree” – an 85m tall tree which has stood in the forest for more than 400 years. During this majestic walk, you’ll also be treated to views of the Cumberland Valley, and witness the beautiful Cora Lyn and Cumberland Falls.
Observe the native wildlife
Set in the heart of the Yarra Valley, Healesville Sanctuary is one of the best places to experience Australia’s unique and fascinating wildlife. The sanctuary – which covers over 30 hectares of natural bushland – is home to animals such as koalas, kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingoes, native birds and platypus, and daily demonstrations provide visitors with fun and educational insights into their eating and grooming habits. What’s more, the Healesville Sanctuary is hosting a Wine & Wildlife festival over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend (June 10th-12th), where visitors will be treated to a selection of the best local food and wine, live entertainment, and all the usual animal encounters.
If you’re planning a day trip to the Yarra Valley, let Melbourne On The Move take care of the travel for you. Melbourne On The Move offer comfortable, reliable coach hire all across the Melbourne region, leaving you to enjoy a relaxing day in the Yarra Valley (while enjoying as many wines as you please). Alternatively, we also offer pre-organised tours such as the Yarra Valley, Puffing Billy and Healesville Day Tour.