1. See Things From Above
For an amazing morning, book a balloon flight over Yarra Valley. Take the Puffing Billy Train through the lush forests of the Dandenong Ranges. Get out of your comfort zone and launch yourself back to land with a skydiving experience. Or Head to Sky High in Mount Dandenong offering the highest natural viewing point in Victoria. A small entry fee will give you access to incredible views, bush walks, BBQs and a hedge maze which is great for kids.
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2. Sample Local Produce
This region is foodie heaven! There are so many local producers in the area including Rayner’s Orchard where you can participate in a fruit bottling session, the Australian Rainbow Trout Farm where you can catch your own fish or take a chocolate workshop at The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.
Jump on the U-Pick Trail which will take you around the various local growers and allow you to pick your own cherries, berries, apples and more.
For cafés with great food and something special, head to Mocha & Lime, check out the hidden gem that is the King Henry Arts Café (Sassafras) or stop in at the quirky Cog Bike Cafe in Warburton and admire the picturesque location. After lunch, enjoy a walk or ride along the rail trail.
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3. Have A Tipple
Spending some time at the region’s wineries is a must. For a luxurious day, treat yourself to Levantine Hill for an exquisite dining experience. Spend a day at one of the locals’ favourite wineries, Yering Station. Or for something a little different, try Badger Creek Blueberry Wines.
Considered to be a hidden gem, Warramunda Estate hosts a fantastic cellar door experience along with an array of delicious wines. A small family-owned business that you’ll be delighted to support.
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4. Witness Nature At Its Best
Gardens, National Parks, reserves, waterfalls and parks; the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges are full of natural wonders.
Discover the magical Warburtons’ Redwood Forest, home to 1476 perfectly lined Californian Redwood trees. See the stunning display of azaleas, camellias, daffodils and rhododendrons flourish throughout the year at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.
For a true blue Aussie experience, spend the day at Healesville Sanctuary. With over 70 acres of natural bushland, the sanctuary is home to many native animals in an educational setting.
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5. Take In The Cultural Landscape
This area is home to some amazing art and cultural offerings. Check out the ‘Art Lives Here Trail’ and you’ll get to experience some of the area’s best attractions including Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, William Ricketts Sanctuary and Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden.
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6. See Things A Little Differently
Enjoy the views of the Yarra Valley and get lost in the fun of cruising through a winery on a Segway. Spend an afternoon climbing tree ropes and zip-lining through the forest at Trees Adventure, Glen Harrow Park. Or explore lush gardens and hours worth of fun, Hedgend Maze in the Yarra Valley. Everywhere you turn in this region there’s a unique way for you to take it in!
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