Wineries: Around the world the Yarra Valley is famous for its cool climate wine. There are more than 70 wineries in the Yarra valley producing unique, award winning wines for you to sample. Visit one of the many cellar doors or take a tour of one of the larger scale wineries and appreciate the wines from vine to bottle. Take home a crate for you private collection or just enjoy a bottle or two over a meal.
Restaurants: The Yarra doesn't just have amazing wines; there are numerous world class restaurants on offer as well. Sample some of the regions delicacies such as figs, chilies, and pasta cooked up by Australia's best chefs. The food in the Yarra is so good you will never want to eat anywhere else.
Fresh produce: The slow food movement started in the Yarra Valley. Visit our of the bustling local markets to see the best local organic produce the region can offer. Buy straight from the farmer and taste the difference.
Artist Galleries: The valley has always been a haven for artists. Every year the Open Studios program is held to show the works of contemporary artists living in the area. Regions art studios are open to visitors to see the inner workings of an artist's workshop. An array of different artists, from wood carvers, painters, digital artists, sculptors, jewelers are involved in the program.
Heidelberg School Artists Trail: Combine art and exercise; enjoy the 40km trail which pays homage to artisits Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton and Fredrick McCubbin. The trail passes along the Yarra River between Heidlberg and Belgrave and offers the stunning views of the river and the opportunity to learn about the art of three great Australia artists of the region.
Puffing Billy: Australia's oldest working steam engine makes the 25km journey from Belgrave to Gembrook. Sit in open side carriages and enjoy the view of the forrest, passing over narrow wooden bridges and through beautiful fern glades. First class tickets include a wonderful meal in the dining cart.
Healsville Sanctuary: The park and surrounding bush land has over 200 species of Australian animals living in the area. It is the best place in the world to see Platypus, Dingoes, Koalas, Eagles and Emus. For a closer view of the platypus enjoy the BHP Billiton Platypusary.
Dandenong Ranges: Witness the rugged and remarkable Australian bush land in the Dandenong Ranges. Take a walk and enjoy the seasonal wildflowers, catch a glimpse of the native fauna and relax in the peace and quiet of the bush land.
The Australian Open Garden Scheme: During the program the most beautiful gardens of the region are open for public display. The William Ricketts Sanctuary, The RJ Hamer Arboretum, The National Rhododendron Gardens and The Alfred Nicholas Gardens are some of the wonderful gardens the Yarra Valley has to offer.
All an hour from Melbourne: Just a short drive down the highway and you are in the relaxing Yarra Valley, you will wonder why you never visited before.