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Drive northeast of Melbourne for an hour and you'll notice the scenery take on a dramatic change. Gone at the high-rise buildings and the busy streets and in their place are near-empty stretches of country road, sparse buildings and seemingly endless rows of vineyards that beckon you to explore, relax and unwind.
This is the Yarra Valley, a region renowned for its award-winning wineries, fresh local produce, well-being facilities and country atmosphere.
Whether you're searching for a romantic getaway, adventure-filled weekend or family holiday, the Yarra Valley and country Victoria has boundless activities to enthrall and excite.
Drive up from Melbourne or take a day tour from the big city. Whichever way you decide, just remember to leave your big city worries behind.
Yarra Valley is a region famous for its vineyards and is just 50 kilometres from Melbourne.
You can get to Yarra Valley from Melbourne by car or by private tour . The drive usually takes just under an hour, and you can enjoy lovely views and even spot local wildlife such as kangaroos and wallabies along the way.
Another option to reach Yarra Valley is by train (to Hurstbridge, Lilydale or Belgrave) or by bus.
Yarra Valley is car country since most wineries aren't within walking distance and public transport in the valley is scarce. This means in order to discover its vineyards and natural beauty, it's best to drive or to organise a tour. You can organise a tour either before you arrive or while you're in the area.
In the absence of public transport, renting a car is a good way to see Yarra Valley. An additional benefit is that it provides you more autonomy to travel far and wide.
You can hire a car from companies like Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, DriveNow, Redspot and Thrifty, which are available at multiple locations in Melbourne.
Compare car hire companies and prices.
Taxi. Taxis are scarce in Yarra Valley and can only be booked in advance through a phone or a website.
Uber. You can use Uber to reach Yarra Valley from both Melbourne and Essendon Airports. The cost is $70-$100 from Melbourne Airport and $55-$75 from Essendon Airport.
It's easy to get in and out of Yarra Valley using airport transfers.
You can pre-book a shared shuttle or a private vehicle from companies like Yarra Valley Transfers, Yarra Valley Discovery Shuttle, Jayride and Only Melbourne.
The Yarra Valley is a popular holiday destination for those looking to unwind and relax. You can visit the vineyards, dine on local fresh produce or indulge in a luxurious day spa. Sound heavenly? We thought so too.
The Yarra Valley also offers holidaymakers the opportunity to explore and adventure in Dandenong Ranges National Park, where visitors can come face to face with some of Australia's native wildlife.
If all that's holding you back from a trip to the Yarra Valley is a few vital questions, don't panic.
The Yarra Valley is the area that surrounds the Yarra River. It's located in Victoria, southeast Australia.
The Yarra Valley is located approximately 63kms away from Melbourne. This equates to approximately 56 minutes on the road.
The Yarra Valley is most accessible via road, and thus you're best option to get there would be via car. You could also journey via bike along the scenic Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail.
The trail starts from train terminus Lilydale, where you have the option to rent a bike, and continues for 39kms across the valley to Warburton.
The trail passes lots of wineries, most only a short detour off-route. The route is a former trainline and is completely separated from road traffic.
There's plenty to experience and see in Yarra Valley. We've outlined some of the best things below.
Since the mid-80s the Yarra Valley has experienced solid growth and is now recognised as one of the world's premium cool climate wine regions. Due to the region's varied microclimates the Yarra Valley has the ability to produce outstanding wines. The Yarra Valley wine region is located an hour's drive east from Melbourne.
Yarra Valley Racecourse is located at 2 Armstrong Grove, Yarra Glen Victoria 3775. Yarra Valley is home to the Spring races, festivals and music events.
Luxury Escapes
Up to 46% off Yarra Valley stays with nightly drinks + flights
Ends
Available for travel from 1 February 2021 - 1 June 2022. Includes return airfare, stay at Yarra Valley Grand Hotel, breakfast, $20 dining credit and more. Valid for 2 persons. T&Cs apply.
CruiseDirect
Up to USD$1,500 OBC with Princess Cruises
Ends
Plus get free drinks, upgrades, tips and Wi-Fi on board. Available on select voyages in 2021-2021 to Melbourne, Sydney, Vancouver, Los Angeles and more. T&Cs apply.
Skydive Australia
Yarra Valley skydive from $319
Available on select dates for an up to 15,000ft jump. Includes return transfers from Melbourne CBD and a $20 merchandise voucher. T&Cs apply.
Information about the nearest airports to Yarra Valley and ground transport options available to and from the airport.
