Things to do in Yarra Valley that don’t all include wine

Taste the best Yarra Valley wines

No trip to the Yarra Valley is complete without a visit to some of the local wineries.

A local guide will teach you about the winemaking process while you sample wine made from the grapes surrounding you.

Image: Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

After all of the wine and savoury snacks you’ll need a bite of something sweet at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie.

Each chocolate artisan is an expert in choosing the best flavour combinations for truffles and chocolates.

You can tour the factory and taste test the chocolates yourself.

Image: Yarra Valley Dairy

Eat up at the Yarra Valley Dairy

Cheese pairs well with wine. If you agree then a stopover at Yarra Valley Dairy can’t be missed.

Try the locally crafted, award-winning cheeses made from cow and goat’s milk. Most are soft in the style of the cheeses of France and Italy.

Many winery tours also include cheese tastings.

Drink in breathtaking views from above with a hot air balloon ride

Find the perfect photo opportunity and see the Yarra Valley from a new height.

A hot air balloon ride provides gorgeous views over the rolling hills and vineyards of the region. Take a ride at sunrise for an incredible experience during the golden light.

Spend beer o’clock in a local brewery

For non-wine lovers there’s the popular Yarra Valley Cider and Ale Trail, which lets you brewery hop and sample the local craft beers and ciders on tap.

A great way to learn about the brewing process while you taste is with a local guide.

Image: Visit Melbourne

Tee off on the golfing green

The Yarra Valley has golf courses for every level of player while offering scenic views and diverse courses.

World-class champion layouts will test your abilities and 18-hole courses are ideal for a quick daytrip from Melbourne.

Day spa

The Yarra Valley has a number of day spas and beauty treatments available to add to a relaxing stay. Piaf Day Spa (pictured) is located within a rainforest and Argyle Aveda Day Spa combines beauty and wellbeing.

Choose to pamper yourself for a day or weekend with massages, beauty treatments and more.

Image: Visit Yarra Valley

Walk or cycle your way through the landscape

If you’re tired of driving, take it easy by strolling through the Alowyn Gardens (pictured) or a bushwalking trail in Yarra Valley National Park along the Yarra Valley River. Another popular choice is the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail.

For more of a challenge try the Mt Donna Buang Summit. There are also scenic cycling routes such as the Chum Creek to Toolangi trail.

Image: Turu

Connect with nature and ditch the hotel for a camping adventure

The Yarra Valley has camping sites appropriate for any level of camper from beginner to experienced, with budget-friendly options to boot.

Some campsites are basic and free while others are powered and ideal for caravans. Turu is a great place to start if you’re looking to book camping spaces in the area.

For those who wish to be out among nature but without the hassle, glamping is also an option.

Image: Yarra Valley Racing

Don your best frock and hightail it to the races

Yarra Valley Racing is not far from the wineries and can be enjoyed after a day of touring and tasting.

Local wines and farm-fresh produce is available at the races where you can enjoy a morning mimosa or three-course lunch while showing off your racing best.