Victoria’s Yarra Valley is a magnificent natural escape within easy driving distance of Melbourne. Here, the vineyard-dotted banks of the Yarra River give way to the forested mountains of the Dandenong Ranges. This internationally acclaimed wine region offers a range of relaxing retreats, wineries and fine dining experiences set amidst scenic landscapes.

The Yarra Valley’s wine-growing region is recognised as one of the world’s finest for cool climate wines. Visit more than 90 cellar doors and sample wines from famous estates and small boutique wineries. Try chardonnay and pinot noir, the region’s award-winning wine varieties or try the valley’s famous Domaine Chandon sparkling wine. 

The valley also has a rich history of beer and cider production. Hit the Yarra Valley Cider and Ale Trail to take a scenic journey between the breweries nestled in the hills.

Indulge at one of the Yarra Valley’s highly acclaimed restaurants. Many winery restaurants feature stunning vistas of the rolling hills, lined with vineyards and framed by the green peaks of the Dandenongs. Try a long lunch made with fine regional produce and matched with local wines. Visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery for a delicious and family-friendly experience of some of the region’s fine produce.

In the heart of the Yarra Valley is Healesville Sanctuary, an expansive bush estate where you can encounter some of Australia’s wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas. Learn about the area’s Wurrundjeri Aboriginal people at the sanctuary’s historical exhibits. Explore the untamed landscape at Marysville’s Yarra Ranges National Park.

Don’t miss the TarraWarra Museum of Art, a public visual arts museum with a focus on Australian art from the mid-20th century to today.

The Yarra Valley is just 50 kilometres (31 miles) from Melbourne, Victoria’s capital city. Explore the region’s towns and wineries by car, charter tour or by bicycling along the network of cycling trails that traverse the picturesque valley landscape.