The Yarra Valley is very lucky that Mother Nature was so generous to the region, rewarding it with a picture perfect combination of farm lands as far as the eyes can see, perfectly kept vineyards, thick and luscious natural reserves, and an abundance of wildlife. Driving down the main road Maroondah Highway, surrounded by cows, sheep, and horses enjoying their daily feed in the paddocks, with nice retaining walls I must add, has such a warm and fuzzy vibe to it, but if you are wanting to explore Australia’s wildlife even further, then pop into Healesville Sanctuary where you’ll find so many more mammals, birds and reptiles such as koalas and kangaroos, to echidnas and wombats. The list doesn’t seem to end! But if it is more the view you would like to absorb, Yarra Valley has plenty of lookouts you can go to, to see the amazing views of the rolling green hills, forest covered mountains, and sprawling vineyards. So go and have your physio fix any niggles with your body and get exploring! You can find them scattered around Healesville to the east, and just past Christmas Hills to the west.

 

2. Fine Wine

The fresh sun-kissed climate of the Yarra Valley creates the perfect condition for a collection of fine wines from some of the world’s most renowned wineries. Whether you are after a crisp chardonnay or a smooth pinot noir, or you would much prefer a playful glass of sparkling wine, there is definitely no shortage of selections to satisfy even the pickiest wine connoisseur. With over 80 wineries in the Valley alone, your options are endless and you will easily be able to find some Yarra Valley wine tours that suit you. But if wine isn’t really your thing, don’t worry! For those who are yearning over a cold cider or a refreshing pale ale, there are plenty of options in the valley that aren’t wine, like the Meletos Ciderhouse and Brewery with beers and ciders, or the White Rabbit Brewery with a big selection of Belgian Style beers.

3. Terrific Food

Visiting the Yarra Valley on the weekend means you are in for a treat! Numerous wineries offer a special Saturday night dinner menu with the chef’s best creations, which is paired with the finest wines they have to offer. Add that to an amazing view and a romantic atmosphere and you have got yourself a perfect out of town date night at any of the Yarra Valley vineyards

4. Hidden Accommodation

Food and wine is essential for a weekend away, but if there is one thing more important than that, it is the luxury place you’ll be consuming it! There is a wide variety ranging from small B&B ‘s to 5-star luxury hotels, so you are sure to find something you like when searching for beautiful Yarra Valley accommodation! The options are endless! You can have a room in a shared house or have an entire house which is suitable for a family or group of friends (a girls weekend away with lots of wine? Um yes please!)

5. Quirky Shopping

When shopping in the Yarra Valley, don’t expect to be stocking up on the latest fashion trends. As a matter of fact, you’ll be hard pressed to find more than just a handful of shops in Healesville, but for those who love to shop, there are a few options if you want to maybe pick up a few little Christmas gifts for either yourself or someone else! If by any chance you are in Yarra Glen on the 3^rd Sunday of the month, then take the time to visit the Yarra Valley Farmer’s Market It consists of a wide variety of arts and crafts, gourmet food, produce, and homewares.

6. Outside Activities

If you are wanting to break up your day with some outdoor activities, then the Yarra Valley has lots to offer. You can head over to one of the golf courses, 4 of them have been ranked in the Australian top 100 by the Australian Golf Digest, to enjoy a nice round of golf, or if golf isn’t your thing, then you can spend some time hiking or cycling through some of the great trails, or book a Segway tour for something different! And for those who are wanting the ultimate experience, hot air ballooning might just be the right fit for you. The view of the valley in the morning is breathtaking and definitely worth the expense. Your options are endless and there are so many Yarra Valley tours to choose from so you are sure to find something everyone enjoys.

7. Family Adventures

When you think of a wine region, you probably don’t think about it being a destination for the whole family, but in the Yarra Valley, your kids can easily have heaps of fun too. They can go on a forest zip-lining adventure in the Dandenong Ranges, or spend a day at the Healesville Sanctuary getting familiar with the amazing wildlife that Australia has to offer.

But if you are after something to keep the kids happy, then the Yarra Valley Chocolatier and Ice-Creamery is the best place to go! They have free chocolate tastings, hundreds of chocolates on display, and by far some of the best chocolatiers working on their delicious creations, it is every kids (and adults!!) dream! They have made it virtually impossible to stop yourself from trying way too much chocolate and to leave empty handed!

It is near impossible to not enjoy your time visiting the incredible place that is the Yarra Valley.

To read more, visit https://www.drinkteatravel.com/10-things-make-yarra-valley-perfect-destination-weekend-away-australia/