Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Postcard picturesque, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges region is famous for its vineyards and mountain scenery, rolling green hills, forests and fern gullies - all less than one hour's drive from Melbourne. Drive, walk, wander or float in a hot air balloon, taking in the magnificent scenery.

Meet the local wildlife

Nestled in a bushland setting and with the largest collection of Australian native wildlife in the world, Healesville Sanctuary provides the ultimate Australian wildlife experience and is home to more than 200 species.

Award-winning wines

The Yarra Valley wine region produces some of the world's finest cool climate wines and is home to abundant wineries that are open for cellar door tastings throughout the year.

Yarra Valley wineries are celebrated for their restaurants, where fine regional food is combined with local wines. Domaine Chandon is one of the region's finest vineyards, or visit Rochford Yarra Valley with its cellar door, winery, restaurant and café. Some wineries save you the trouble of a drive home by offering accommodation as well; book a table at the gracious Chateau Yering 5-star hotel that is home to the famed dining room, Eleonore's.

Local experts, such as Victoria Winery Tours, Australian Wine Tour Company and Yarra Valley Winery Tours, bring together wine tastings, lunch and spectacular scenery in an exceptional day's touring.

Excellent local produce

Orchards, farm gates, dairies and produce markets sit among the valley's famous vineyards. Healesville is an important food and wine centre and on the edge of town, the TarraWarra Estate mixes art with gastronomic pleasures. Alternatively, sharpen your cooking skills with a Culinary Arts Tour at the Swipers Gully Vineyard and Restaurant.

Relaxing retreats

Enjoy 5-star accommodation at The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley, which is surrounded by two championship golf courses and features an indulgent day spa.

The Dandenong Ranges is an idyllic retreat for those seeking mountain air and an escape from city life. As one of the highest villages in the Dandenong Ranges, Olinda's scenery reflects its pronounced seasons. Spend a relaxing afternoon browsing through art galleries and sampling Devonshire tea. The region is home to some of Australia's most beautiful public and private gardens, including the colourful National Rhododendron Gardens and the sculptures at William Ricketts Sanctuary.

Go to Visit Victoria (Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges) for further information.