Immerse yourself in the Yarra Valley, an hour's drive east of Melbourne, where ancient mountain ranges meet vineyards and world class wineries. The Yarra Valley is recognised as one of the world's great wine growing regions. Taste award-winning chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir and shiraz wines at some 35 cellar-door outlets. Many vineyards have restaurants serving gourmet food and fine local produce accompanied by their wine. The Yarra Valley has some of the most beautiful countryside in Victoria. Rolling hills strung with vines around Healesville and Yarra Glen meet towering trees, green valleys and pristine rivers around Marysville and Warburton. You'll find plenty of romantic getaways, stately homes & cosy bed-and-breakfast options with four-poster beds and open fireplaces. For a different view of the countryside, take to the skies in a hot-air balloon before gently descending into a vineyard to enjoy a breakfast of local produce and sparkling wine.
When to Visit Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley is known for its overall cool temperate climate. The summer months can be hot, but the humidity is low. Daytime temperatures averages around 22 deg C. It is a great time to enjoy an outdoor live music experience and the most anticipated event for foodies – the Grape Grazing Festival. (held mid-February). Throughout autumn the spectacular colours begin to transform the countryside into a myriad of reds, oranges and yellows. Daytime temperatures average around 15 deg C. The winter months are the perfect time to spend a weekend in front on a cosy wood fire with a bottle of Red. Daytime temperatures average around 10 deg C. In spring as the weather warms the Valley blooms with many of the wonderfully inspiring private gardens open to the public. The rain tends to fall mostly in the cooler months.
Getting Around Yarra Valley
There a number of different routes to the Yarra Valley, some more scenic than others. There are a number of novel ways to get around including hot air ballooning, vintage steam trains, and horseback rides. To get the most out of the valley however, you either need to join a tour group or have your own vehicle. There are several train lines into the region and some bus services, however public transport is somewhat limited and restrictive. The closest airport to the area is Melbourne Airport at Tullamarine.
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