Yarra Valley Day Trip: 6 Best Things To Do
Embark on a day trip to Yarra Valley, a serene haven just a short drive from Melbourne. It captivates with its rolling green hills, renowned wineries, and the best things to do. This picturesque region invites you to savor world-class wines, indulge in delectable local flavors, and bask in the tranquility of lush landscapes.
1. Wine tasting at wineries
Yarra Valley wineries are known for their Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy some wine tasting at the wineries that produce your favourite type of wine and find out more about each of their special creations. Even if wine is not your beverage of choice, the picturesque views of the vineyard and gentle rolling hills make any visit to these wineries worth it!
2. Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
This visit to a real-life chocolate factory is a must for any chocolate-lover for its huge range of chocolate products. Enjoy the free chocolate tasting as you watch the talented chocolatiers at work, handcrafting chocolate bars and truffles. The cafe at the Chocolaterie also has amazing views of an orchard, perfect for having a quick bite or ice cream treat while soaking in the sun.
Address: 35 Old Healesville Rd, Yarra Glen VIC 3775, Australia
Opening hours: Daily 9am – 5pm
3. Yarra Valley Dairy
Sample the wide variety of artisan cheeses, created from fresh milk from nearby dairy farms right here at the cheese factory at Yarra Valley Dairy. Cheese tasting are offered at just $5 for the standard tasting or you can opt for the cheese board, which comes with crackers, bread and charcuterie.
Our favourites were the Saffy, a marinated goat cheese with a hint of lemon, saffron and honey, and the Gentle Goat, a simple but delectable fresh goat cheese.
Address: 70 McMeikans Road, Yering VIC 3770
Opening hours: Daily 10.30 am – 5pm
4. Healesville Sanctuary
Animal lovers can learn more about wildlife native to Australia at the Healesville Sanctuary. Wander the different tracks in the Sanctuary to catch a glimpse of the animals and habitats before tuning into the various Keeper talks on how they care for the animals. Of course, not to miss the Spirits of the Sky bird show that runs twice daily!
Address: Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville VIC 3777, Australia
Opening hours: Daily 9 am – 5pm
Ticket prices: $46 for adults, $23 for children 4-15 years old (free on weekends and public holidays), free for children 0-3 years old
5. Black Spur Drive
Touted as one of Victoria’s most stunning drives, this 28-kilometre windy road cuts through the lush forest as the Mountain Ash trees tower over you and sunlight peaks through the giant fern gullies. Take this drive early in the morning to beat the crowd and experience the misty air with the morning sun filtering through.
The drive starts from Healesville to Narbethong, taking 30 minutes one way. There are many hair-pin turns and windy areas so do be careful navigating the roads and find a safe spot if you want to pull over for some photos.
6. Cement Creek Redwood Forest
Take a walk amongst the towering Californian Redwood sequoia trees planted in neat rows more than 90 years ago! This place is amazing to explore, take some moody photos and you can even set up a picnic to thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere.
Continue down to the bottom of the forest where there is a walking trail along the creek. Get to enjoy the entire forest to yourself by visiting early (before 10am).
From Warburton, drive along Wood Point Road and make a left onto Cement Creek Road. You’ll pass by the Cement Creek Road Bridge and further up is a car park and entrance into the forest.
Address: Cement Creek Rd, East Warburton VIC 3799, Australia
It’s best to visit these spots early in the morning when the misty air enhances the forest experience. It’s a bit of a drive to visit both places during a day trip but certainly doable!
- Drive from Healesville to Narbethong on the Black Spur Drive using B360 (30 minutes)
- Drive from Narbethong to Cement Creek Redwood Forest using C507 (1 hour)
- Drive back to Healesville from Cement Creek Redwood Forest (45 minutes)
Yarra Valley Day Trip itineraries
For Black Spur Drive and Cement Redwood Forest, Yarra Valley Dairy and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
7.00 am – 8.30 am: Drive from Yarra Valley to Black Spur Drive
8.30 am – 9.00 am: Black Spur Drive from Healesvilles to Narbethong
9.00 am – 10.00 am: Drive to Cement Creek Redwood Forest
10.00 am – 11.00 am: Explore around Cement Creek Redwood Forest
11.00 am – 12.00 pm: Drive to Yarra Valley Dairy for lunch
12.00 pm – 2.00 pm: Lunch at Yarra Valley Dairy
2.30 pm – 4.30 pm: Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
4.30 pm – 6.00 pm: Drive back to Melbourne
For Healesville Sanctuary, Yarra Valley Dairy and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
8.00 am – 9.00 am: Drive to Yarra Valley
9.00 am – 11.00 am: Breakfast and shopping at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
11.30 am – 12.30 pm: Cheese tasting and brunch at Yarra Valley Dairy
1.00 pm – 4.30 pm: Healesville Sanctuary
4.30pm – 6.00 pm: Drive back to Melbourne
Transport
Drive
Traveling from Melbourne City to Yarra Valley takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, and using a car is the easiest way to get around and discover the area. If you plan on visiting wineries, you can either take the wine with you or make sure you have a designated driver for the day.
We rented a compact car from Jucy Rentals with free cancellation and add on insurance packages.
Tour
There are also many tours that offer a day trip from Melbourne if you are looking for a fuss-free way to visit Yarra Valley, including guided tours catering to the wine lovers looking to visit multiple wineries in a day.
This article is published by Postcards with Coffee. Last updated: 13th August 2023
