Immerse yourself in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges region, an hour's drive east of Melbourne, where tall trees and ancient mountain ranges meet vineyards and world class wineries.

The Yarra Valley is recognised as one of the world's great wine growing regions. Numerous wineries offer cellar door tastings and sales. They also 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.

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.

You can also get close to Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, home to dingoes, kangaroos, wombats and the elusive platypus.

Parks, gardens, native fern forests and nature trails define the Dandenong Ranges. Climb aboard Australia's oldest steam train, Puffing Billy, and travel through thick forests and lush fern gullies. Dotted throughout the Dandenong Ranges are quaint villages such as Olinda, Gembrook, Belgrave, Emerald and Sassafras, home to some of Victoria's best gardens, and famous for craft shops and Devonshire teas.