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Gulf Station
Image credit: National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gulf Station Historic Farm

Visit Gulf Station and learn what life was like for a family living on the land in nineteenth century Australia. Gulf Station is an extraordinary survival of Victoria's farming heritage, showcasing self-sufficiency and resilience. The farm buildings are all hand constructed using traditional techniques making use of the materials available. They show the development of the farm and its domestic uses. Scottish immigrants Agnes and William Bell colonised the land in the 1850s to run a farm. The practical and hardworking Bell family were generous, resourceful and kind. They ran the Station for 100 years. Mary Anne Bell was the matriarch and after her husband died, she continued to run the property. On Open Days, families can join a guided tour at 11.30 am or explore at their own pace, wandering through the homestead, gardens, old schoolhouse and historic outbuildings. Meet the resident Clydesdales, and explore the barns and farm buildings where generations once worked the land. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn and experience the domestic world of a colonial farming family, where resilience, resourcefulness and hard work shaped daily life.

Yarra Glen VIC

2.8 km away

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Wisteria longissima in full bloom (mid October)

Parks and Gardens

Alowyn Gardens

A beautiful seven acre award winning display garden in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Featuring nine distinct garden areas, with seasonal displays. There is an extensive plant nursery with interesting and unusual plants and a cafe with great coffee, teas and cakes. The purpose of the gardens at Alowyn is to provide an informative and educational experience for anyone interested not only in gardening, but also the enjoyment of a beautiful garden. It has been designed with shade and comfort in mind. Plant names are on view to educate and inform visitors about the gardens.

Yarra Glen VIC

4.0 km away

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Yarra Valley Tea Company

Shopping and Markets

Yarra Valley Tea Company

Yarra Valley Tea Company is a family-owned and local Certified Organic tea manufacturer located in Coldstream, the gateway to the Yarra Valley. Specialising in Victorian grown organic green tea, you can visit the factory and witness the tea making process. An access friendly tea emporium is located at the front of the factory where you can peruse and purchase from the extensive range of Yarra Valley Tea Co teas together with local and regional gourmet goodies and tea wares.

Coldstream VIC

6.2 km away

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Sugar Loaf Reservoir
Image credit: Yarra Ranges Tourism

National Parks and Reserves

Sugarloaf Reservoir Park

Nestled in the Christmas Hills, Sugarloaf is a tranquil setting for a picnic or a stroll near the reservoir shores, offering wonderful views across the water. For the more energetic, there is a 15 kilometre walk that circumnavigates the reservoir. Try shoreline fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, redfin, roach or European carp. Take a walk along one of the tracks in and around the park including the lronbark, Chris Phillips and Sugarloaf Walking Tracks. Sailing at Sugarloaf is an enjoyable and exhilarating recreational pursuit. Visitors are permitted to launch appropriate watercraft from the Sugarloaf Sailing and Boating Club only. Launching facilities are available to visitors on Sundays and public holidays by calling the club. A launching fee may be charged. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Christmas Hills VIC

6.6 km away

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Heritage Golf and Country Club

Entertainment Venues

Heritage Golf and Country Club

Heritage Golf and Country Club is founded on a philosophy of elegant simplicity. It is a vision realised in every detail – each graceful curve of the fairway, in the swathes of colour that flush the landscape and in the exquisite natural finishes of the architecture. In the heart of the Yarra Valley and framed by the spectacular mountains of Australia’s Great Dividing Range, Heritage is less than an hour’s drive north-east of Melbourne. Boasting two magnificent 18-hole championship courses, Heritage Golf and Country Club is one of the most beautiful and captivating private golf courses in Australia.

Chirnside Park VIC

9.1 km away

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Riding the Rail Trail in Warburton on a Tandem Bike
Image credit: Yarra Ranges Tourism

Natural Attractions

Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

Get back into nature and stretch your legs on the iconic Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail. The 40 kilometres trail is perfect for walkers, cyclists, walking dogs and even horse riders! One of the region's most popular trails, the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail follows the path of the historic railway line that went through the Yarra Valley. The trail is mostly flat, or has a very slight incline/decline making it perfect for all abilities. On the trail, you'll venture through the scenic terrain of farmland, vineyards, mountains and forests. There are plenty of places to stop along the way, including cafes and picnic rest stops. Starting at Lilydale, the trail heads east through increasingly rural suburbs and finishes at Warburton. Even though it is called the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, you can start or finish the trail at either end. If you'd like to do the trail in sections, you can enter the trail from various townships such as Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Wandin, Seville, Killara, Woori Yallock, Launching Place, Yarra Junction, Millgrove and Warburton. If you don't own a bike, bike hire is available at Lilydale and Warburton. Cyclists can take anywhere from two hours to five hours to ride one way. The entire trail is dog friendly with water fountains at various points throughout the trail.

Lilydale VIC

9.3 km away

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Yarra Ranges Regional Museum captured from Market Street, Lilydale
Image credit: Yarra Ranges Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum

The multi-award winning Yarra Ranges Regional Museum features stunning architectural design set in tranquil surrounds, the museum features exhibition spaces, programs for all ages and abilities, a resource library, museum shop and café. An ever changing array of exhibitions and programs bring art, belongings and fascinating stories to life. Begin your journey into the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges with the Museum and learn about how industry, nature and people have shaped how they live. The Connections Gallery is a permanent exhibition dedicated to the story of the Yarra Ranges region, a place of connections and relationships between people, the environment and the histories we share. Connections is an ongoing story – yours included – discover your connection to the Yarra Ranges region. The fully accessible building ensures everyone can enjoy celebrating the past, present and future of the Yarra Ranges area.

Lilydale VIC

9.6 km away

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Annie from Shortacre Farm wears the Brood Gladys boxy crew jumper in Blue Lake
Image credit: Brood

Shopping and Markets

Brood Knitwear

Brood is a working knitwear studio and retail destination in the heart of the Yarra Valley, offering visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at Australian fashion manufacturing. Designed, developed and made on site, Brood's premium knitwear celebrates natural fibres, thoughtful design and local craftsmanship, combining cutting-edge knitting technology with traditional hand-finishing techniques. Visitors can explore the studio, witness the knitting process in action, meet the makers, and discover the story behind each garment, from fibre to finished piece. Through regular studio tours, demonstrations and special events, Brood provides an engaging experience that connects people with Australian design, regional manufacturing and the value of locally made products. On the second Thursday of each month, visitors can attend their Around the Table Make and Mend, a monthly gathering offering a relaxed space to sit, stitch, make, mend and to connect with others over a cup of tea, a glass of wine and good conversation. The studio will provide basic mending materials, tools, and tea during these sessions. Whether you're interested in fashion, textiles, design, sustainability or simply looking for a unique Yarra Valley experience beyond the wineries, Brood offers an authentic insight into contemporary Australian manufacturing and the people keeping it alive.

Lilydale VIC

10 km away

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Golf at RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort edit
Image credit: RACV

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Golf at RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort

RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort offers an 18-hole golf course and a four-hole short course. Surrounded by beautiful native trees and vegetation, the Michael Clayton designed 18-hole course offers members and guests a unique playing experience. The four-hole short course is a hidden gem and gives beginner golfers a non pressured environment to learn the game. It also provides a wonderful practice facility for all members to enjoy. An additional feature to the 18-hole course is the extensive paved cart path network, which allows for all weather access.

Healesville VIC

11 km away

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One Spa at RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort
Image credit: RACV

Spas and Retreats

One Spa at RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort

Treat yourself to a sensory escape in the heart of the Yarra Valley Nestled in the beautiful Yarra Valley, One Spa at RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort offers a rejuvenating retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They invite you to indulge in the revitalising treatments the day spa has to offer, and in the caring hands of the spa professionals, release all tension in a blissful exercise of self-care.

Healesville VIC

11 km away

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Mt Everard Circuit

Natural Attractions

Mt Everard Circuit

The Mt Everard Circuit Walk is approximately 22 kilometres in length so allow five to six hours to complete. It resides in the Kinglake National Park, only 50 kilometres out of Melbourne and home to almost 600 native plant species, over 40 native mammal and 90 native bird species. This loop tackles three of Kinglake's highest forested peaks, Mt Beggary, Mt Everard and Mt Jerusalem and is a great challenging walk. The circuit can be started from several locations but it is recommended from Jehosaphat Gully Picnic Area. Begin on Shelley Harris Track through lush bush land, crossing several small streams in the wetter months. This trail then connects to the Mt Jerusalem Track for a short way to the Cookson Hill Track. Through this section you may catch a glimpse or two of Melbourne in the distance before connecting with the Mt Everard Track. Here the trail follows the edge of the ridge line and you'll be rewarded with views of surrounding forest ridges. This then connects with the Bundy Track before reconnecting to the Mt Jerusalem Track for the return. Throughout the entirety of the route there's a mix of scrubby bush, gum trees and ferns along its length.

Kinglake VIC

11 km away

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Chirnside Urban Park

Parks and Gardens

Chirnside Urban Park

Chirnside Park is home to one of the most unique parks in the southern hemisphere, an amazing urban playground and reserve that really is one of a kind. The Belsay Reserve Chirnside Urban Park Playground (the long name hints at the diversity of the offering) on Kimberley Drive has transformed the once bare space into a flight-themed playspace, with a wetland, walking paths and barbecue facilities. Perhaps the most exciting feature is the hot air balloon play and climbing equipment, the first of its kind in Australia and south of the equator. Other features of the reserve include a flying fox, sensory play, trampolines and educational placards about various flight animals.

Chirnside Park VIC

11 km away

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The Memo Healesville

Entertainment Venues

The Memo Healesville

The Memo has been a part of the fabric of Healesville since 1924 and has been a source of many significant memories for the community. Following a major redevelopment, The Memo reopened in September 2012 to thrive again with community and cultural events, creating memories for a new generation. Featuring a large presentation space that seats over 300 people, this first class facility caters to great theatre, music and other live performances and is available to hire. The flat floor space is a great space for conferences and other private functions. From silent films in the 20s, to the talkies in the 30s, to the latest 3D digital technology today; Cinema has long been a tradition in Healesville and returns to The Memo bigger and better than ever with regular screenings each week. Several ancillary rooms are suitable for meetings and private bookings. The gallery space features regular exhibitions of local and touring artworks. The team look forward to welcoming you to visit and experience all The Memo has to offer.

Healesville VIC

12 km away

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Mt Evelyn Aqueduct Trail

National Parks and Reserves

Mt Evelyn Aqueduct Trail

The Mount Evelyn Aqueduct Trail uses part of the aqueduct that once cut the town of Mount Evelyn in two. This trail forms an important historical and contemporary link between the township and the surrounding National Park. You'll find mostly gravel and bush track with steep climbs. Along the trail, you will travel through remnant sections of dryland forest and may be lucky enough to encounter echidna, wombats and wedge-tailed eagles. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. The Mount Evelyn Aqueduct Trail runs for 6.4 km and is an easy-medium-grade trail. It allows users to connect with the Warburton Rail Trail or the Olinda Creek Trail to Lillydale Lake.

Mount Evelyn VIC

12 km away

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Lakes course
Image credit: Maroondah Golf Park

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Maroondah Golf Park

Maroondah Golf Park takes adventure golf and driving range fun to a whole new level. Set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens with creeks, water wheels, tunnels and even ball spirals, the 36 cleverly designed holes will delight and challenge players of all ages. Multi-level greens, surprising water features and winding paths ensure every round is an adventure where both luck and skill come into play. Choose from two 18-hole mini golf courses: The Lakes, a stunning outdoor course set around a picturesque lake, or The Lodge, a fully undercover option perfect for all-weather play. Both courses are beautifully lit at night so the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down. The 300-metre driving range features premium Srixon full length range balls, undercover bays, a grass tee area and a short game zone complete with bunker – ideal for both beginners and seasoned golfers. An on-site café serves great coffee, snacks and treats to keep you fuelled up for the next round. Maroondah Golf Park is also a favourite for kids' birthday parties, school groups and family outings.

Chirnside Park VIC

13 km away

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EF Path
Image credit: Edible Forest YV

Parks and Gardens

Edible Forest Yarra Valley

Hidden within the Yarra Valley Estate property, you will find the Edible Forest. A place to grow unique edible plants, create experiences and breathe the fresh air. The ultimate goal is to have 1000 plants, ranging in maturity, from over 350 different varieties all with their own purpose of being either edible, medicinal, nutritional for the soil, bee attracting or for companion planting. The Edible Forest is consciously designed using Hügelkultur and Permaculture methods. Permaculture is based on three ethics that mirror their philosophy – care of the planet, care of community and take personal responsibility for the way you organise your life. Chemical free and proudly organically grown, the abundant vegetation has created its own healthy eco-system. Birds flit around the garden, together with bees and butterflies to ensure pollination and seed scattering, which would occur naturally within a forest. Seed gathering and plant shoots allow the regeneration of plants and provide the garden to additional growth. When you visit, you will feel the calming and healing effect that a forest creates and the best of what nature has to offer. Guests can now purchase plants in the Edible Forest Nursery and continue their edible gardening journey at home.

Dixons Creek VIC

13 km away

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Koalas Hazel and Emily
Image credit: Healesville Sanctuary

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Healesville Sanctuary

Explore a bushland haven for Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary. An Australian wildlife experience just one hour from Melbourne in the stunning Yarra Valley. Wander tranquil tracks and see iconic Australian animals including koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats, emus and more. Discover majestic birds of prey and magnificent parrots in the spectacular Spirits of The Sky bird presentation. Every Sunday, Murrundindi (Wurundjeri Elder), is here to share the cultural stories of his land. Learn a little language as he welcomes you onto Country with a friendly Womenjika; listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo; stop to have a yarn; hear local stories, and be amazed at his mastery making that Boomerang really fly. Take a visit to the Australian Wildlife Health Centre to meet the vets and nurses as they care for sick, injured or orphaned wildlife in need of care. Healesville Sanctuary offers many close-up experiences where guest have the opportunity to meet iconic Australian animals including koala, kangaroo, dingo and echidnas. Children under 16 years of age receive free entry every weekend, during Victorian Government school holidays and on Victorian public holidays.

Healesville VIC

13 km away

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Wominjeka: Indigenous Cultural Experiences with Murrundindi

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Wominjeka: Indigenous Cultural Experiences with Murrundindi

Ever wondered which Indigenous plant has leaves that can be used as soap? Or maybe you want to know what makes a Boomerang come back? Perhaps you would like to hear a local Dreaming Story about how the Lyrebird came to speak in the language of many other animals? Every Sunday, Murrundindi (Wurundjeri Elder), is here to share the cultural stories of his land. Learn a little language as he welcomes you onto Country with a friendly Womenjika; listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo; stop to have a yarn; hear local stories, and be amazed at his mastery making that Boomerang really fly. You can meet Murrundindi every Sunday 10:30am to 3:00pm, or every day except Saturday in the school holidays and on public holidays. Free with general admission.

Healesville VIC

13 km away

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Mont De Lancey Front Garden
Image credit: MDL

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead and Café

Come and enjoy Mont De Lancey. Located less than an hour's drive from Melbourne in the stunning Yarra Valley, it is an excellent destination for a day trip. Experience a YesterYear tour of the Historic Homestead and slab kitchen, the beautiful gardens, St Mary's Chapel, Blacksmiths, vintage machinery and a great collection of old woodworking tools. After your tour, why not enjoy a coffee at the cafe? The Homestead's beautiful gardens are set in lawns graced by a variety of trees including a magnificent 140 year old spreading oak. Whether it be the rich rustic colours of autumn or spring during its blossom time, the cottage garden full of salvias, daisies and butterflies and the rose garden and camelias make Mont De Lancey a stunning setting to enjoy.

Wandin North VIC

14 km away

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Olinda Creek Walking Track

Natural Attractions

Olinda Creek Walking Track

Starting in the Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve, follow the Olinda Creek making its way down from Mount Dandenong, through the Dandenong Ranges National Park. As you start, you will notice several silver water valves along Pipe Track Road. These connect to a pipeline between the Silvan Reservoir and Preston to feed Melbourne's water supply. Walkers will pass through many different vegetation types from dry open forest areas to spectacular fern-filled gullies, the walking track provides an ideal setting to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the Australian bush. The track follows the Olinda Creek Valley and crosses the old aqueduct in parts where the vegetation is cleared. Along the way watch out for some of the native animals that inhabit the area, such as Short-beaked Echidna, Superb Lyrebird and Black Wallaby.

Mount Evelyn VIC

14 km away

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Kuranga Native Nursery

Parks and Gardens

Kuranga Native Nursery and Paperbark Cafe

Discover the magic of Kuranga Native Nursery, a hidden gem nestled in the scenic foothills of the Dandenong Ranges. Renowned as an award-winning specialist nursery, they proudly showcase Australia's largest range of stunning native plants. Wander through vibrant displays, find rare species, and let their expert horticulturalists inspire your garden dreams. But Kuranga is more than just a nursery – it's an experience. Browse their delightful gift shop, brimming with Australian-made treasures, from unique homewares to artisan-crafted goodies perfect for gifts or keepsakes. Hungry? Relax at the Paperbark Café, where seasonal menus celebrate fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, enhanced with the unique flavours of Australian bush foods. Nestled among lush greenery, it's the perfect spot to unwind and soak in nature's beauty. Whether you're a plant lover, foodie, or just seeking a peaceful escape, Kuranga Native Nursery is a must-visit destination that will leave you enchanted.

Mount Evelyn VIC

14 km away

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Maroondah Reservoir Park

National Parks and Reserves

Maroondah Reservoir Park

Maroondah Reservoir Park in Healesville is a must-do activity. Going for a walk and picnicking here is a wonderful day out for the whole family with lots of rotundas, barbecues and picnic tables to use. But, the main feature here is the amazing dam wall. An impressive 41 metre high dam wall offers amazing scenic views over gardens, mountain ranges and a reservoir lake. Construction of this dam wall took place from 1920 - 1927 and this catchment is an important source of Melbourne’s water. There are a number of walks around the park including on top of the dam wall, the Falls Lookout and gardens. Walking to the bottom of the dam wall really shows the grandeur and size. Photograph the historic Rose Stairway which is at its best in Autumn. Enjoy azaleas and rhododendrons in full bloom in spring. During the wetter months experience the awesome force of the water tumbling over the spillway. Before you go: conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Healesville VIC

14 km away

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Jehosaphat Gully Picnic Area

Natural Attractions

Jehosaphat Gully Picnic Area

Jehosaphat Gully is a pleasant open picnic area near the town of Kinglake and the starting point for several walks include the approximately 20 kilometre Mt Everard Circuit. The picnic area has plenty of picnic tables under shelter, barbecues and public toilets. Enjoy picturesque walking tracks or a social picnic or barbecue with family and friends here.

Kinglake VIC

15 km away

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Karwarra Gatehouse for helpful information and plant purchases.
Image credit: Yarra Ranges Council

Parks and Gardens

Karwarra Australian Native Botanic Garden and Nursery

Located at Kalorama in The Dandenong Ranges, Karwarra is set on two hectares and is devoted to displaying the diversity of Australian plants in a landscaped setting. Numerous garden beds give boundless inspiration for those looking to create their own garden using Australian plants regardless of their size of garden. At any time of the year, there are colourful flowers and foliage with much to see and enjoy. Karwarra has plant collections including Boronias, Telopeas (Waratahs) and rare and threatened plants. There is also a well-stocked nursery with lots of interesting tubes and pots for purchase. There is a section of natural bush where native orchids and wildflowers can be seen in spring and summer. The garden also provides habitat for local wildlife. The garden has a well-equipped meeting room with a kitchen suitable for community groups and corporate training. (Not suitable for parties). Karwarra is at the rear of Kalorama Memorial Reserve where visitors can enjoy electric barbeque facilities, picnic tables, children’s playground and the quirky saddle-shaped oval.

Kalorama VIC

16 km away

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