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"Between the picturesque hills and valleys of the Yarra are tucked a band of artisanal wine companies, large and small, which are passionately pursuing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Wines and emerging varieties in styles that are setting the pace for the rest of the country”. Tyson Stelzer Wine Press 2009
Victoria's Yarra Valley is one of Australia's most visited wine region, with its stunning verdant, undulating landscape unfolding less than one hours drive east of the Melbourne's CBD and international airport.
The extraordinary range of winery attractions include personalised tours, Australia's largest private art gallery, cheese and wine trails, cheese rooms, coffee roasting and bread making, accommodation and dining.
Touring Routes
Three main highways are home to the majority of Yarra Valley Wineries, with the fourth cluster located in the North West Corner.
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THE NORTH WEST CORNER
(Melbourne CBD to Panton Hills – 40 kms)
The north west corner of the Yarra Valley is home to some of the Yarra Valley's finest family owned wineries. This is the closest sub region to the airport and centres around the towns of Kangaroo Ground, Panton Hills and Cottles Bridge.
The strong artistic heritage and tradition in the region goes back to the heady days of the 1930's when the gothic inspired Montsalvat artists' colony was built in Eltham. The plethora of markets adds to the village atmosphere of the area.
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MAROONDAH HIGHWAY
(Lilydale to Healesville - 21 kms)
This highway actually begins in Melbourne's CBD as Johnston Road, passes through the Eastern suburbs before reaching the spectacular Yarra Valley. The stretch between Lilydale and Healesville is framed by vineyards, wineries and mountains. Explore wineries dotted along country roads branching off the Maroondah Highway – such as Ingram Road, St Hubert Road and Maddens Lane.
Set some time aside to explore the village atmosphere of Healesville. The Healesville Sanctuary at Badger Creek is upheld as one of Australia’s leading natural wildlife sanctuaries. Continue your wine journey along the Healesville Yarra Glen Road to the town of Yarra Glen, some 12 kilometres away. |
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MELBA HIGHWAY
(Lilydale to Dixons Creek – 22 kms)
Just after the town of Coldstream, turn left off the Maroondah Highway onto the Melba Highway, named after Australia's late opera singer, Dame Nellie Melba. In fact, her former residence still stands proudly at the intersection of these two highways.
Meander past orchards and vineyards to the historic town of Yarra Glen, home to a host of antique stores, restaurants and cafes. Just north of the town, visit historic working farm Gulf Station, dating back to the 1850s. Head north to Dixons Creek, where you can choose from more than a dozen wineries open for tasting and sales. Roads off the Melba Highway which are home to wineries include King Rd, Gulf Road and Steels Creek Road.
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WARBURTON HIGHWAY
(Lilydale to Warburton – 38 kms)
Just past Lilydale, the Maroondah Highway branches off to the right along the Warburton Highway. One of the best kept secrets of the Yarra Valley, the Warburton Highway (or "Warbie" as it is known locally) is a treasure trove of smaller, family owned wineries. Watch for wineries of Seville Road, Douthie Road and Little Yarra Road.
Other diversions include Mont De Lancey homestead and gardens, dating back to the 1880s and Warratina Lavendar Farm.
The Warburton village is set on the Yarra River against the spectacular back drop o Mount Donna Buang. A perfect day out!
For the avid cyclist or walker, a safe rail trail runs from the town of Lilydale (commencing on the Maroondah Highway near Queen Road) to Warburton. | |
