Yarra Valley — Wine Region★★
Yarra Valley, Victoria (ca. 60 km östlich von Melbourne)
Cellar Doors: meist 10:00–17:00 | Healesville Sanctuary: 9:00–17:00
Weinverkostung: 0–20 AUD | Healesville Sanctuary: 42 AUD
The Yarra Valley is Victoria's oldest wine region — just 60 kilometers east of Melbourne and perfect for a day trip. Over 80 wineries produce world-class cool-climate wines here: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wine that can rival Champagne.
The top wineries for visitors:
- Domaine Chandon (727 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream): Moët Hennessy's Australian branch produces excellent sparkling wine. Beautiful tasting room with panoramic views over the vineyards. Tasting from 15 AUD for 4 wines.
- TarraWarra Estate (311 Healesville-Yarra Glen Road): Architecturally impressive winery with art gallery (TarraWarra Museum of Art, entry 12 AUD). World-class Pinot Noir. Tasting 10 AUD.
- Yering Station (38 Melba Highway, Yering): The oldest winery in the Yarra Valley (since 1838). Historic building, gourmet restaurant, and cellar door. Free tasting at the counter!
- De Bortoli (58 Pinnacle Lane, Dixons Creek): Family-run with an excellent restaurant (Locale at De Bortoli). Cheese tasting alongside wine possible.
Besides wine, the Yarra Valley offers:
- Healesville Sanctuary: The best place to see Australian animals up close — koalas, kangaroos, wombats, platypuses, and Tasmanian devils. Maintained by Zoos Victoria. Entry 42 AUD. The platypus pool is unique.
- Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery: Free chocolate tasting (!), homemade ice cream, and a huge shop. Perfect stop, especially with kids.
- Puffing Billy Railway: A historic steam train ride through the Dandenong Ranges rainforest. The tradition: let your legs dangle from the open wagon. From 62 AUD (round trip).
💡 Tipp
If you want to taste wine, book a guided tour with transport (from 130 AUD, e.g., Yarra Valley Wine Experience) — then everyone can taste without worrying about the driver. Most tours visit 4–5 wineries and include lunch.