Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley (Wineries & Healesville Sanctuary): Overview

Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is Victoria’s ultimate destination for amazing food, award-winning cool-climate wines, and scenic countryside escapes. Spend your days sampling wines at picturesque cellar doors, enjoying gourmet local produce, floating above vineyards in a hot air balloon, or getting up close with Aussie wildlife at the famous Healesville Sanctuary. Whether you’re after relaxation, culinary adventure, or something in between, the Yarra Valley hits the sweet spot every time.

Explore the Yarra Valley Your Way

At The Road Trip Oz, we know every traveller is different, so we offer flexible ways to explore:

• Self-Drive Tours – Love exploring solo? We’ll provide detailed route notes, insider winery tips, and hidden gems so you can set your own pace.
• Small Group Tours – Join a friendly crew of fellow travellers, led by local experts who’ll take care of all the planning.
• Private Guided Tours – The ultimate tailored experience, with a dedicated guide to show you local secrets, secluded vineyards, and gourmet highlights.

Seasonal Highlights in the Yarra Valley

Every season offers something special in the Yarra Valley. Here’s what you can expect:

Summer (Dec–Feb): Outdoor Tastings & Sunshine

• Long sunny days perfect for vineyard visits and outdoor dining.
• Enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and lively events across the valley.
• Relax at winery terraces with delicious local produce and vibrant wines.

Autumn (Mar–May): Harvest Season & Golden Vineyards

• Experience the grape harvest, cellar door festivals, and picturesque autumn leaves.
• Perfect temperatures for scenic walks, leisurely lunches, and winery tours.
• Quieter cellar doors offering relaxed, intimate tastings.

Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy Cellar Doors & Comfort Food

• Cosy up by cellar-door fireplaces with robust reds and hearty seasonal dishes.
• Enjoy fewer crowds and serene countryside drives through misty valleys.
• Warm up at gourmet restaurants showcasing seasonal menus paired with award-winning wines.

Spring (Sep–Nov): Blossoms & Sunny Days

• Vineyards and gardens burst into life, creating stunning photo opportunities.
• Ideal weather for outdoor dining, cycling, and vineyard walks.
• Fresh spring menus featuring seasonal produce at restaurants and cafés.

Best Spots to Visit

Iconic Attractions

• Healesville Sanctuary: Get close to koalas, kangaroos, and Australian wildlife in natural habitats.
• TarraWarra Museum of Art: Contemporary art meets scenic vineyards—perfect for art and wine lovers.
• Yering Station: Historic winery with premium wines, gourmet dining, and beautiful vineyard views.
• Four Pillars Distillery: Award-winning gin tastings in vibrant Healesville.
• Hot Air Ballooning: Float above vineyards at sunrise—a truly magical experience.
• Yarra Valley Dairy: Sample artisan cheeses matched perfectly with local wines.
• Chandon Australia: Stylish cellar door known for bubbly tastings and scenic views.
• TarraWarra Museum of Art: Beautifully designed gallery surrounded by vineyard landscapes.
• Maroondah Reservoir Park: A scenic picnic spot with tranquil walking paths.
• Alowyn Gardens: Stunning seasonal gardens perfect for leisurely walks.

Photo Hotspots

• Chandon Vineyards: Snap rolling green vineyards with a glass of sparkling wine.
• Black Spur Drive: Enchanting rainforest scenes and towering trees.
• Hot Air Ballooning at Sunrise: Unforgettable aerial views over vineyards and hills.
• Healesville Sanctuary: Capture close-ups of Australian wildlife.
• TarraWarra Estate: Beautiful combination of art, architecture, and vineyard landscapes.

Hidden Gems

• Pimpernel Vineyards: Small-batch wines and intimate tastings with welcoming hosts.
• Boat O’Craigo: Relaxed vibe, outstanding wines, and picturesque vineyard views.
• Acacia Ridge Winery: Rustic charm and friendly service make for laid-back afternoons.
• Riverstone Estate: Perfect spot for long lunches with unforgettable valley views.
• Bulong Estate Winery: Peaceful, intimate winery experience away from the crowds.

Best Yarra Valley Wineries

The Yarra Valley is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, serving up outstanding wines, gourmet food, and incredible views. Here are our favourite cellar doors to explore:

1. Re’em Yarra Valley (Helen & Joey Estate)
   A standout vineyard with spectacular views, superb wines, and welcoming vibes.
2. TarraWarra Estate
   Where art meets wine. Sip award-winning wines before wandering through the impressive modern art gallery.
3. Boat O’Craigo
   Laid-back, boutique winery known for its excellent food, smooth wines, and beautiful vineyard scenery.
4. De Bortoli Wines Yarra Valley
   A charming, family-run favourite renowned for rich, flavourful wines, stunning vistas, and warm hospitality.
5. Oakridge Wines
   A must-stop for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir lovers, paired perfectly with top-tier dining experiences.
6. Acacia Ridge Winery
   Relaxed, rustic charm perfect for kicking back and tasting wine while soaking up vineyard views.
7. Riverstone Estate
   Unforgettable scenery, great wines, and the perfect spot for leisurely long lunches.
8. Pimpernel Vineyards
   A hidden gem specialising in small-batch, handcrafted wines with intimate tastings you’ll love.
9. Bulong Estate Winery
   One of Yarra Valley’s best-kept secrets, offering peaceful surroundings and delicious wines away from crowds.
10. St Huberts Cellar Door
    Beautifully restored historic cellar door with seriously impressive wines and outstanding service.
11. Warramunda Estate
    Family-owned and friendly, Warramunda impresses with its quality wines, stunning location, and genuine hospitality.

Where to Stay in the Yarra Valley

Accommodation choices can transform your experience. Here are our favourites:

Mid-Range Comfort

• Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa: Spacious rooms, spa treatments, and vineyard views ideal for relaxation.
• Yarra Gables: Boutique rooms surrounded by gardens, close to cellar doors and cafés.
• Healesville Hotel: Stylish country hotel with charm and character in the heart of town.

Luxury Stays

• Chateau Yering Hotel: Elegant, historic accommodation with beautiful gardens, luxury suites, and gourmet dining.
• Yering Gorge Cottages: Private, luxury cottages with serene river views and wildlife at your doorstep.
• The Farmhouse at Meletos: Rustic luxury and gourmet dining set within rolling vineyards.

Combining the Yarra Valley with Other Destinations

Extend your trip effortlessly. At The Road Trip Oz, we specialise in creating seamless itineraries that link your Yarra Valley escape with Melbourne’s vibrant city attractions, the stunning Great Ocean Road, or a peaceful mountain retreat in the Dandenong Ranges. However you want to explore, we’ll make it unforgettable.

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Self-Drive Tours

Picking the perfect vehicle can make your trip even better:

• Compact & Standard Cars – Easy to drive, park, and ideal for short winery visits.
• SUVs – Comfortable with extra luggage room, great for longer countryside drives.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs) – Eco-friendly, quiet, and ideal for vineyard-hopping.
• Vans – Spacious comfort, perfect for groups or families travelling together.

Not sure what suits you best? We’ll help you select the ideal car for your adventure.

Why Choose The Road Trip Oz?

At The Road Trip Oz, our goal is simple: create unforgettable experiences without hassle. With detailed planning, local expertise, and a personal touch, we’ll ensure your Yarra Valley escape is relaxed, fun, and completely tailored to your interests.

Explore your way:

• Private Guided Tours – Let an expert local handle everything for the ultimate stress-free trip.
• Self-Drive Freedom – Explore independently, but with our insider tips, recommendations, and custom notes.
• Small Group Experiences – Join friendly groups led by passionate guides who love sharing local secrets.

Leave the details to us – your only job is to enjoy the journey.

Book Your Ultimate Yarra Valley Road Trip

Ready to start your Yarra Valley adventure? Contact The Road Trip Oz today and let’s create your perfect guided, self-drive, or small-group escape to Victoria’s premier wine region.

Secure your unforgettable Yarra Valley experience now!