Fact Sheets & Video - Yarra Valley, Dandenongs and The Ranges

The Beautiful Yarra Valley

For a perfect weekend getaway or a nice little day trip, get out of the city and head to the Yarra Valley. Only an hour's drive east of Melbourne it's easy to see why the Yarra Valley is a hot spot for wine lovers or those out for a dive in the countryside. The Yarra Valley is a place of considerable natural beauty where tall trees and ancient mountain ranges meet vineyards and world class wineries.

The Yarra Valley is the oldest wine producing region in Victoria with a history dating back to 1838 when the first vines were planted. The principal characteristic of the area is its cool temperatures. A clear oasis for cool climate grapes this is precisely what the region is recognised for, cool climate production of high quality Chardonnay and pinot noir as well as sparkling wines. Visitors can choose from a wide range of world class wines, including sparkling wines made in partnership with French Champagne houses, fine Chardonnays, complex pinot noirs, world class Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. With so many wineries to choose from visitors can expect to find something they like from the full spectrum of the region's international reputation for premium quality wines. Many wineries offer cellar door sales and tastings. The majority of the wineries are dotted about the Coldstream, Yarra Glen and Dixons Creek corridor and range in size from boutique to grand estates. Some of the bigger properties offer winery tours and on-site restaurants serving gourmet food and fine local produce to accompany their wines.

The Valley's cool climate provides a long ripening period which produces wines of intense varietal flavour, finesse and elegance. Wines that are consumed when young have immediate appeal but will age gracefully with careful cellaring. A great time to visit the Yarra Valley is during the annual Grape Grazing Festival which runs through mid-February and features meals and wines at some of the area's best cellars. In 2008 the 21st Grape Grazing Festival was held from 9-18 February.

Besides food and 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. The Valley itself is only about 25 km long and at its widest point it is only approximately 15 km.

The towns of the Yarra Valley are all within easy reach of Melbourne which is what makes it such a popular weekend destination. From Melbourne take the Maroondah Highway to Healesville or take the turnoff towards Yarra Glen to start your tour of the area. There's no shortage of places to stay around Coldstream, Lilydale, Yarra Glen, Dixons Creek, Seville and Healesville.

Other scenic drives include the Acheron Way, Woods Point Road and the drive between Healesville, Marysville and Warburton. You can visit Victoria's highest waterfall, Stevenson Falls near Marysville or enjoy one of the many bushland walks the region has to offer.

Any time of the year is a great time to head to the Yarra Valley. Warm summers and cool winters whatever time you visit the there will always be something different to experience.

Further Information:

Grape Grazing Festival Yarra Valley. The annual Grape Grazing Festival is a chance to enjoy Yarra Valley wines in conjunction with foods. Patrons are encouraged to "graze" - visit several wineries on the day - sampling wine and food at each winery. For more information visit: www.grapegrazing.com.au

Tourism Victoria for further information visit: www.visitvictoria.com