Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges Guides Attractions Events in Victoria

Acacia Ridge is set in the beautiful Yarra Valley with outstanding views across rolling hills and distant Blue Mountains - a stunning "Fred Williams" landscape!


The property was planted in 1997. The original plan was to sell fruit to the larger wineries. This is still going on, but because the fruit is of such a high standard, we decided to begin making our own wine. This was done under contract by specialist wine makers, local to the Valley.


The grapes are slow ripening, small bunch clones, ensuring intensity of colour and flavour. Irrigation is used to a minimum, to assist us in achieving high quality fruit.


Acacia Ridge has won a Gold medal at the Victorian Wine Show for its Pinot Noir and Silver at the Lilydale Wine Show. The Chardonnay has also won a Silver medal at the Lilydale Wine Show.


Acacia Ridge is a truly unique experience you can't find in a bottle shop. Great for weddings, family gatherings, work or sporting club Christmas parties etc. Plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the setting.

The many linking paths through this garden take you beneath a canopy of the awesome mountain ash trees of the Dandenong Ranges. The garden was part of the historic Burnham Beeches Estate, home of Alfred Nicholas, developer of the Aspro formula. It is known for its extensive water features including waterfalls and an ornamental lake complete with boathouse.



Things to do


* Walk through shady trees down to the picturesque lake, and picnic by the quaint boathouse

* In spring view the flowering azaleas, cherry trees and viburnum

* Take photos of the colourful foliage in the autumn

* View the colourful birdlife



Heritage

Alfred Nicholas purchased this land in 1929 to build his home and then proceeded to buy up surrounding land to add to his estate. Alfred Nicholas and his brother George developed the 'Aspro' painkiller. It was originally a German discovery, the supply of which halted during the first world war. George, a chemist, re-discovered the formula, the Australian Government awarded the patent and the Nicholas fortune grew.


Mr Nicholas travelled the streets of Melbourne searching for established trees to be purchased for his property. Unfortunately he passed away before the garden was completed, and soon the property began to decline. Mrs Nicholas stayed on the property until the outbreak of the second world war. After the war the house was handed to their company which converted it for use as a research laboratory. The Nicholas Company decided in 1965 to donate the gardens to the people of Victoria by way of the local shire council. In 1972, the council handed the garden over to the Victorian State Government.


For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.

This system prevents polluted water from entering Cardinia Reservoir and affecting the quality of our drinking water.


Things to see and do


* Have a picnic or barbecue

* The lake has become a popular venue for boating activities such as sailboarding, canoeing and small sail boats up to 3.3 metres

* A boat launching ramp is located near Henley Picnic Area

* Due to water pollution swimming is not recommended


Visitors with disabilities are catered for in Bobs Picnic Area. Ramped paths provide access to the barbecue, picnic areas and toilet facilities. Groups of 50 or more people require a permit from the park office. Permits are available up to six months in advance


Looking after the park


Help us to look after this park by remembering these guidelines:


* Take your rubbish with you

* Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Aura Vale Lake Park

* No fires including barbecues may be lit on days of Total Fire Ban

* Solid fuel or portable wood barbecues are not permitted in the park. Portable gas barbecues are permitted. All native plants and animals are protected.

* All native plants and animals are protected

* Powerboats are not permitted at Aura Vale Lake

* Leave the park as you find it


Precautions

The water quality in Aura Vale Lake is unsuitable for swimming as the lake is the final detention basin for waste drainage water from developed areas on the southern fringe of the Emerald Ridge. A series of open channels, detention basins and a pumping station intercept the drainage and divert it away from Cardinia Dam and into Aura Vale lake.

Providing massage and day spa treatments in the Dandenong Ranges.


Balance therapies offer a range of treatments including remedial and relaxation massage to facials and body wraps. Using natural products our treatments are customized to suit your individual needs.



With a wonderful team of qualified therapists we offer single, couples, and group bookings; perfect for hen's gatherings, conferences, group weekends away or simply a quiet escape for yourself.



The service is also available to homes and accommodation in the Dandenong Ranges and is open seven days.



Balance Therapies: Helping you keep the balance between a hectic life style and our increasing need for relaxation and repair. A chance to relax, take time out for you and restore your body's balance.



For a full list of treatments, more information and booking online see our website above.

"Bianchet is one of the first wineries you will come across if you are taking the traditional route out of Melbourne, and it is well worth a visit. Included in the white wines are Chardonnay, Gewurtztraminer, and the unique Verduzzo. Among the reds, trophy winning Shiraz, Merlot and Pinot. The dining venue known as Cucina Rossa provides Rural European style food to complement the estate grown wines." Ralph Kyte-Powell









Established:



1976




Wine Region:



Yarra Valley




Winemaker:



Jeff Wright/ Keith Salter




Cellar Door:



Manager - Jeff Wright




Open:



11.00am-5pm Thursday-Monday. Lunch 12-3pm, Dinner 6pm-9pm Saturday Only




Wines:



Chardonnay, Gewurtztraminer, Verduzzo, Pinot Noir, Shiraz,Cabernet Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon.




Price:



$17.00-$25.00




Food:



Rural European with traditional values




Functions:



Up to 100 people

Blue Hills Orchards also known as Blue Hills Berries and Cherries is nestled in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges near the Silvan Reservoir, which has a beautiful picnic area. Silvan is renowned for its fruit, flowers and rich red soil.


Owners, Murray and Lorraine Chapman are well established growers of berries and cherries. The Chapman family have farmed in Silvan since 1894 and are best known for their quality fresh fruit and provision of "Pick Your Own" berries and cherries.


Blue Hills Orchards is the farm where u-pick first started in the area. It was on a patch of strawberries. Lorraine sat down the paddock with a pair of scales hanging from a cherry ladder with a few containers and a couple of signs up.



It wasn't long and customers wanted more varieties of berries and cherries added to the list they could pick. They also built a cafe for light refreshments in the picking season. It is always best to make a booking for the cafe or the variety of fruit you want to avoid disappointment.

Bulong Estate is a family owned and run vineyard, winery and restaurant. The 33 hectare vineyard is situated on the outskirts of the township of Yarra Junction in the upper reaches of the Yarra Valley - one of Australia's premium wine regions. The site was chosen by Howard and Judy Carter in 1994 for its unique combination of climate, aspect and soil and to provide our cellar door and restaurant with spectacular views across the Valley floor to the imposing Mount Donna Buang.


All winemaking and bottling is conducted on site. Our winemaker, Matthew Carter, has extensive experience both in Australia and overseas and his primary aim is to grow the best possible fruit in the first place. Over a number of years he has changed or modified a number of vineyard blocks in the quest for better and better fruit. Grape varieties grown at Bulong Estate include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.


Enjoy our wines at our modern and comfortable cellar door, surrounded by the beautiful vineyard. Wine tasting is available seven days a week, 11am to 5pm.


The restaurant, opened in October 2006, provides a seasonal menu, using quality local produce with a French flair from our French Chef Antoine Cheron.


Open for Lunch: Friday to Sunday.

Dinner: Friday and Saturday nights.


We can also host your next celebration, such as birthday, anniversary, club fundraiser or wedding. We can cater for a maximum of 60 people, or more if a marquee is erected outside.

Visitors to Bunyip State Park are able to explore and experience the Park's rugged bush setting through a range of activities such as:


* Picnic lunch at Mortimer or Dyers Picnic Ground or at Tomahawk Creek

* Explore the Four Brothers Rocks. Go mountain bike riding. Pitch a tent, but please contact the Ranger for details on where to go camping

* Visit the historical charcoal kiln utilised during World War II, which is located at Kurth Kiln Picnic Ground, within Kurth Kiln Park

* Discover the park on foot with a variety of scenic walks

Burrinja is located just five minutes from Puffing Billy in Belgrave. Burrinja Gallery is one of the most stunning and unusual galleries in Melbourne. It provides a unique view of contemporary and traditional Australian art that is both fascinating and enlightening. The Burrinja collection includes works of international significance from across Australia. Rare Oceanic works from Papua New Guinea include beautiful carvings ceremonial masks, dance wands and sculptures.


Burrinja Gallery and its café offer the rare opportunity to delve into the world of Aboriginal and Oceanic art and culture in a totally unique experiential environment. All just 45 minutes from Melbourne city.


The gallery specialises in indigenous culture educational tours and hands-on workshops.


Tours available by prior arrangement.

The future of top-end Australian Sauvignon Blanc is in Victoria and Tasmania.


'Cannibal Creek, a small vineyard in Gippsland, Victoria, releases a tightly focused, austere and chalky wine that bursts with pristine herbal, floral aromas and vibrant gooseberry and citrus fruit. Its bony mouth feel more resembles a high-level Pouilly-Fume' (from France's Loire Valley) than an Australian wine. The newly released 2005 vintage should flesh out beautifully, retaining its cut and austerity'. Jeremy Oliver

Cherryhill Orchards is a family owned and operated company producing world class cherries offered to all customers. Come visit us, spend the day on the orchard where you can pick your own cherries, bring a picnic blanket, soak up the fresh air, sunshine and fantastic views.


We also offer you fresh cherries direct to your door which are available for purchase online through our website or call us Monday to Friday to place you order. Cherries are sent through Australia Post or available for pick up at our orchard located in Wandin. Our wholesale Cherries are only available between November to March.


The other product we offer is 100per cent pure Australian Cherry Juice available all year round. You can purchase this also online or by calling us.


U-Pick opening hours from Late November to Mid January 9am to 5.30pm, weekends only. Days vary due to weather conditions and fruit availably, so please give us a call on our direct number before your visit.


If you would like any more information please feel free to call us or visit our website.


We look forward to hearing from you.

The original brainchild of 4 local friends, Coldstream Brewery opened its doors to beer lovers & diners in June 2007.


The restaurant & bar are housed in a charming old brick building in the heart of Coldstream, the gateway to the beautiful Yarra Valley. The microbrewery has being set up in a purpose-built extension of the restaurant, with large windows through which you can see the Coldstream beers being brewed in small batches by Head Brewer Rod Williams. For a small charge, you can join one of the regular brewery tours followed by a tasting of the full range of draught products that includes a delicious handcrafted Cider. Wine & Cider maker Phil Kelly makes this premium Cider from the juice of local apples extracted on a traditional rack & cloth cider press.


The restaurant features a menu of share plates, mains & pizzas along with daily blackboard specials. Head Chef Scott Arthur develops the menu around local and seasonal ingredients to create simple yet high quality food.


A function room is available for private parties of up to 40 people with a number of menu options available from cocktail parties to 3-course dinners.

"Coldstream Hills is the creation of James Halliday, Australia's doyen of wine writing (and just about everything else to do with wine). James is still around to offer a consulting hand at the winery, although he no longer owns the property. The cellar door looks across the lovely pastoral landscape of the Yarra Valley towards the northern hills. It's a comfortable place to taste the excellent Coldstream Hills range, and chat with the knowledgeable staff about the wines. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the mainstays here, and the Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon can be superb." Ralph Kyte-Powell.


Established - 1985


Wine Region - Yarra Valley


Winemaker - Andrew Fleming


Owners: Manager - Jason Steele


Wines - Chardonnay Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Reserve Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Reserve Pinot Noir, Merlot, Reserve Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, and limited release wines. Small volumes of museum wines also available.

Open nearly every day of the year, The Cuckoo offers a delectable smorgasbord in a warm family atmosphere with quality entertainment. The Cuckoo offers an abundance of food to satisfy any gourmet.


The delicious smorgasbord is prepared by first class chefs to the recipes from the fine tables of Europe, and the amazing range of cakes and pastries are made fresh daily. The world renowned Cuckoo Restaurant is within easy reach of Melbourne and is an ideal venue for business conventions, training seminars, or corporate presentations.


Charter groups are always welcome and special packages are available to suit most budgets. For a memorable Christmas party, birthday, wedding reception or any other special occasion you ll find The Cuckoo unbeatable on service, quality and value.


Children are always welcome in the warm atmosphere of The Cuckoo Our back-on-the-night photographers will ensure you have a great souvenir of your celebration whether you sit back and enjoy the floorshow or if you dance the night away.


Marvel at the largest free standing cuckoo clock in the world, and the delightful characters in the many wood carvings add deliciously to the wonderful Bavarian atmosphere.


Raise your glass and toast Ein Prosit (to our happy togetherness) with a stein of refreshing German beer on tap. If you are lucky Elvis may make a visit as part of the unique floor show. Live entertainment is provided most days by a variety of musicians and performing artists including yodelling equal to any in Switzerland or Bavaria.


Minstrels add to the atmosphere of celebration and it s hard not to join in with toe tapping and plenty of clapping. So book now and come and celebrate with us here at The Cuckoo. Always fun, always welcoming, with first class friendly service.

In 1987 Sherbrooke Forest, Doongalla Reserve and Ferntree Gully National Park were combined to form Dandenong Ranges National Park. Covering 3215 hectares, the park plays an important role in protecting a population of famous lyrebirds and other fauna, as well as protecting the forests and fern gullies of the Ranges. Since June 1997 Olinda State Forest and the Mt Evelyn Forest have also been included in Dandenong Ranges National Park.


Things to do


* Scenic drives through the Ranges are just as popular now as they have been for many years.

* Enjoy a picnic at the Fern Tree Gully Picnic Ground or at One Tree Hill or in Sherbrooke Forest.

* Near the park are coffee shops and restaurants, bed and breakfasts, craft shops, antique shops, gardens and the historic Puffing Billy train from Belgrave to Gembrook.

* Numerous walking tracks are excellent for short family strolls or longer hikes

* Try spotting the famous Lyrebird or just enjoy being surrounded by the native fauna. The park is rich in wildlife with 130 native bird species, 31 native mammals, 21 reptiles and nine amphibian species recorded.



The park is a day visit area and camping is not permitted. However, there are many B&Bs in and around the Dandenongs that are popular for short weekend breaks.


For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.

De Bortoli Wines Pty Ltd was established in 1928, four years after the founder, Vittorio De Bortoli and his wife Giuseppina migrated to Australia from Northern Italy.


He settled within the Riverina area in country NSW and established one of Australia's largest family owned wine companies.


For more than 75 years the family tradition of sharing good wine, good food and good times with family and friends remains unchanged.


Third generation, Leanne De Bortoli and her husband Steve Webber (also the head wine maker), manage the Yarra Valley winery and restaurant, home to some of the oldest grape vines in the Valley. This opened the opportunity to produce high quality cool climate wine from the Yarra Valley.


The De Bortoli Winery and Restaurant is well renowned and has gone from strength to strength winning numerous international and national awards.


Of particular interest is our new Cheese Maturation and Tasting Room within our Cellar Door Sales facility here in the Yarra Valley.


Well known Cheese maker, Richard Thomas will be on hand to select delicious cheese from around Australia and overseas to mature to perfection in our custom made maturation cellar.


Facilities and services offered on site:


* Wine Tastings

* Cheese Room (including wine and cheese matching)

Contemporary Italian style restaurant catering up to 100 guests

* Saturday Wine Adventure (first Saturday of every month)

* Home delivery of wine in Japan, Great Britain and Europe

* Ample car and bus parking

* Landscaped gardens with picnic facilities and children's playground

* Located only one hour from Melbourne, De Bortoli Winery and Restaurant is well worth a visit.

Everybody knew the Yarra had arrived when the French giant Moet & Chandon set up stumps at this magnificent site right in the middle of the Valley.


Everything here is classy and elegant from the roses in the vineyard to the tours of the facilities.


Best of all, the delicious range of sparkling and still wines just keeps getting better.


Established: 1985



Wine Region: Yarra Valley



Winemakers: Matt Steel, Glenn Thompson, Adam Keath and Andrew Santarossa



Cellar Door: Manager - Steven Downes



Open: 10.30am-4.30pm daily



Wines: 'Methode Traditionelle' Sparkling Wines, and a range of still wines



Price: $8.50 - $49.95



Food: Tasting platters of regional produce to accompany tastings. Light lunches available daily

"The affable Dominique Portet is a household name in Victorian wine. He can be found at his winery and cellar door in the heart of the lovely Yarra Valley. The place has a slightly Provencale feel and plans for a terrace café serving light snacks will reinforce the ambience. The wines are very good, with excellent Sauvignon Blanc and dry Fontaine Rose outstanding drinks for al fresco dining. Expect future releases to be of a similar very high standard." Ralph Kyte-Powell


Established: 2000


Wine Region: Yarra Valley


Winemakers: Dominique Portet and Ben Portet (10th Generation Winemaker)


Owner: Julia and Dominique Portet Family


Open: 10am-5pm daily


Wines: Sparkling NV Brut Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, Cabernet Shiraz Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot


Price: AUD16.00 - AUD45.00


Food: Winemakers Cafe, great coffee and local produce

"This is one of the most beautiful vineyards in Victoria. Well-kept manicured gardens and lovely trees frame a breathtaking vista across a verdant valley to the rolling hills beyond. The ideal place to rest and survey the scene, perhaps with a drop of Elmswood's very good Chardonnay, available in both oaked and unoaked versions, or one of the correctly-styled Cabernet blends.


Established: 1999



Wine Region: Yarra Valley



Owners: Jack and Vivian Howe



Open: 10am-5pm Daily



Wines: Sparking White and Red, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Unoaked Chardonnay, Oaked Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, and Cabernet.



Price: AUD20.00-AUD35.00



Food: Light lunches on Saturdays and Sundays and most public holidays. Bookings are appreciated.



Functions: Special events catered by local chef, Ben Higgs.



Weddings: 60-110 sit down, and up to 200 people for cocktail. Ceremony can be held on site.

Please note this property is temporarily closed for renovations.


An elegant contemporary building with a la carte dining upstairs and tasting room with casual grazing food downstairs set among the gentle hills and valleys on the Kangaroo Ground side of the Yarra Valley.


There's a terrace for outside dining and relaxing that gives you an impression of sitting right among the vines, and an art gallery of interesting works. The wines are excellent regional drops - look for the zesty Sauvignon Blanc and the classy Cabernet Sauvignon in particular.


Sunday breakfast is served, so this might be the perfect place to start a tour of the Yarra wineries. Good coffee too. The latest Estate development is a superb, luxurious on-site accommodation option, Evelyn County Retreat.


Our charming mudbrick retreat offers 3 bedrooms for independent living which overlooks landscaped gardens and a spring fed dam, the perfect way to enjoy lifes little pleasures.


Established: 1995


Wine Region: Yarra Valley


Winemakers: James Lance


Owners: Michael and Suzanne Whitten


Cellar Door: Manager - Suzanne Whitten


Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo.


Price: AUD25.00-AUD42.00


Food: A la carte modern Australian cuisine. Our chef prides himself on the use of fresh and local produce with 80per cent of the ingredients being organic.


Features: The Gallery and downstairs cellar door facility "The Hide" open daily.

The Fergusson vineyard lies among rising hills at the northern end of the Yarra Valley. The estate has been in the same family for more than 30 years and Louise Fergusson has kept to the tradition of wining and dining in her own welcoming style.


When you visit the exquisite winery, the Fergusson family and staff will ensure your taste buds enjoy the experience. Using the finest and freshest produce the Yarra Valley has to offer, internationally trained master chef Louise Fergusson has created a diverse, provincial menu. Enjoy sensational cuisine with some of the valley's most exceptional wines. The solid timber restaurant, with its warm, Australian atmosphere, can seat up to 180 guests.


As the first commercial vineyard in the region, there is a unique ambience to Fergusson. The rows of gnarled vines that are a feature of the estate are some of the districts oldest. The vineyard is planted out to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasting and cellar door sales of these outstanding wines are available, or try something special when you dine in the restaurant.


Fergusson specialise in making a wedding day perfect. The storybook chapel is tucked away among grapevines in relaxed, rural setting. Combine gourmet delights with premium wines to celebrate, and these elements make Fergusson a stunning setting for a wedding and reception.


The restaurant is open every day for breakfast and lunch and open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights (other nights by appointment). Cellar door sales and the gift shop are open from 11am to 5pm every day.


In addition the winery is now able to offer onsite accommodation in its own unique style homestead. We have also introduced an outdoor alfresco style dining option on our new deck.

"Park your car under one of the 75 year-old oaks that gave this estate its name, and drink in the fresh air of the lovely Yarra Valley hill country. Five Oaks Estate has a modest and comfortable cellar door for tasting the wines, and for enjoying the relaxed hospitality of the Zuk family. The Zuks originally come from Canada, and there's an almost North American feel in the buildings and spreading trees that lead to the vineyard. The Cabernet-based reds are particularly worth trying here." Ralph Kyte-Powell






Established:



1978




Wine Region:



Yarra Valley




Winemaker:



Wally Zuk




Owners:



Judy and Wally Zuk




Cellar Door:



Manager - Judy Zuk




Open:



10am-5pm Weekends and Public Holidays. Other times by appointment.




Wines:



Riesling, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon.




Price:



$15.00-$35.00

The George Tindale Memorial Garden, only a one hour drive from Melbourne's city centre, is a unique collection of exotic plants set beneath a canopy of large mountain ash. It has become a popular destination for Melburnians and tourists alike.


Things to do


* Explore the extensive system of paths as you view the many exotic plantings.

* Have a picnic on the lawns.



Heritage

In 1958 George Tindale, a research scientist with the Victorian Department of Agriculture, purchased the property and began to develop the existing garden. With his wife he created the plantings that you can see in the garden today. Mrs Tindale bequeathed the garden to the Victorian Conservation Trust in memory of her husband in 1980. Parks Victoria commenced management of the garden in 1995


Vegetation

The towering mountain ash provide a canopy for a variety of floral highlights throughout the year:

Summer - liliums, fuchsias, hydrangeas, perennials.

Autumn - cyclamen, nerines, lapageria, autumn foliage.

Winter - camellias, luculia, rhododendrons, hellebores.

Spring - magnolias, azaleas, camellias, cornus, spring bulbs.


For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.

Giant Steps / Innocent Bystander is an independent Yarra Valley based winery owned by Phil Sexton. Phil has had a long career in brewing and winemaking including founding Matilda Bay Brewing, Devils Lair Winery (Margaret River), and co-founding Little Creatures Brewing in Fremantle. In 1996 Phil sold Devils Lair to relocate to the Yarra Valley, where he purchased a beautiful 75-acre, north facing hillside site alongside one of his winegrowing mentors, Yarra Yering.



The single vineyard Giant Steps wines represent Phil s passion for restrained, cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. At the winery, the winemaking team also produce a range of high quality, interesting varietals and blends from nearby vineyards in the Yarra Valley and central Victoria under their Innocent Bystander label. The new cellar door facility opened in September 2006 and features a wood fired pizza oven, small bakery, coffee roaster, beer on tap and more!



Giant Steps wines are produced exclusively from grapes grown on single vineyard sites in the Yarra Valley, including the Sexton s own vineyard and a number of long-term contracted and supervised vineyards. The grapes are grown fastidiously in the vineyard and vinified with minimal intervention so that each wine is a faithful expression of site vintage and culture. The focus for Innocent Bystander, released in 2003, is to produce quality, flavour-driven wines from carefully selected vineyards in Australia, concentrating on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and emerging grape varieties and interesting blends, such as Pinot Gris, Sangiovese and Shiraz Viognier.

Gulf Station is one of the pioneer farms of the Yarra Valley. Its buildings date from the 1850 s and are the most complete group of solid, timber slab farm buildings surviving in Victoria.


The original cottage garden has been restored using available records and personal accounts, and has many surviving plants such as roses, lilacs, mulberry and japonica.


The homestead and farm buildings, together with the farm tools, the household utensils, farm animals and cottage garden, give a vivid picture of 19th century farm life.


Gulf station was temporarily closed in early 2009 due to surrounding land damage caused by Black Saturday and the 2009 Victorian Bushfires.

Whether you are visiting with family, friends, a social club or a corporate group, Gumbuya Park is a "great day out"!



Visitors can experience one of Australia's longest toboggan slides, have fun driving around the mini car circuit, ride a paddle boat on the lake, play a round of mini golf, drive a twister kart, enjoy a leisurely tractor tour or splash down the waterslide (seasonal).



The Park has over 50 free BBQ areas, all with ample seating. BBQ areas range from spacious, shady outdoor areas to indoor areas with open fires - perfect for a winter get together.



The Greenleaf café sells a delicious range of quick meals, snacks, ice creams and refreshments.Our catering department can provide groups with mouth-watering Camp Oven (weekdays only) and Roast Carvery meals.



The native animal sanctuary gives visitors the opportunity to view, interact with and learn about Australian wildlife.



You can hand feed Kangaroos and Wallabies and have close encounters with Dingoes, Emus, chatty Cockatoos, colourful Parrots and a Wombat.



Our enclosures are also home to a fine selection of exotic game birds. Regardless of age, Gumbuya Park has something to interest everyone!Gumbuya Park is open 7 days a week (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day).



The Park is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm and rides operate between the hours off 11:00am and 4:00pm.

Healesville RSL, just 65 km north east of Melbourne at the eastern end of Healesville township in the heart of the Yarra Valley, Victoria's premier wine growing region.


Features include the Light Horse Bistro with seating for 100 and a family friendly menu, a spacious entertainment room and a large, well appointed Members Lounge for RSL Members and their guests.


All Welcome.

Healesville Sanctuary, Australia's premier wildlife park is nestled in the foothills of the Yarra Valley, just one hour from Melbourne. Koalas, dingoes, kangaroos and the unique platypus are just a few of the 200 species of Australian wildlife flourishing in a stunning Australian bushland environment.
Get the 'inside story' on the animals that live in the Sanctuary from the people that know them best - their Keepers. Face to face presentations give you the chance to speak to the keepers and experience the thrill of getting up closer than you ever thought possible to the animals in their care.


Now open at the Sanctuary is the world-class Australian Wildlife Health Centre, a working wildlife hospital offering unprecedented views into the care of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Follow the patient journey of rescue, rehabilitation and release, talk with the vets and get involved in the many interactive displays and activities.


Other highlights include the Sanctuary's new BHP Billiton Platypusary which reveals the previously hidden world of platypus breeding and care and the not to be missed Birds of Prey flight presentation where you can see a wedge-tailed eagle soar free.

Pre-book a Night Creatures encounter at our specially designed nocturnal house and meet some of our lesser know Australian animals or meet one of the stars of the Birds of Prey.


Enquire on our Keeper Assist for a morning or Assistant to the Veterinary Team programs - just two very special one-on-one experiences.


There are many great reasons to visit Healesville Sanctuary where the Australian bush comes alive.

Truly great wine results from a partnership between the land and the people who nurture it.


Helen's Hill Estate is a family-owned vineyard. The 5th generation to farm, the Nalder and McIntosh siblings and their families are passionate about producing wines of exceptional quality. Loyal customers and a rack of awards say they're on the right track.


Helen's Hill comprises the "old block", planted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties, and the "new block", planted to similar varieties, plus Shiraz, Merlot, Cab Sav and Sauvignon Blanc. They've also planted some new-fangled and old-but-lesser-known varieties such as Arnies and Viognier.


It's the fruit from the "old block" vines (planted in the early 1980's, making them among the oldest in the valley) with which Helen's Hill makes it classic cool climate varieties.


Helen's Hill follows "Old World" wine-making traditions, adding the benefits of "New World" conditions and trends to make a better wine. They produce classic wines, steeped in hundreds of years of history, along side some funky new ones - for example a Shiraz Viognier blend, Evolution (a barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc), their hall mark Cabernet blend and a host of others.


These wines are available primarily at the cellar door, so invest some time in yourself and check them out. (Helen's Hill also has a wine club, with member perks such as wine maker functions, access to limited releases, product discounts and winery tours.)


Just up the hill from the cellar door is Vines Restaurant - heaven for the senses. Stunning views from the architecturally designed building are the perfect backdrop for the modern, elegant dishes, created from fresh, local Yarra Valley ingredients.


Create special weddings and superb functions with Vines staff - inside or in the flat, manicured gardens.


Private dining rooms and gourmet barbecue facilities are also available.

Immerse in the Yarra Valley is set on 48 acres of gently undulating land and comprises a 21 acre producing vineyard. Whilst guests may choose to simply relax and take advantage of our facilities, the property also provides the opportunity for leisurely strolls around the picturesque lake or vineyard. Views from atop the vineyard hill reveal a 360 degree vista of glorious Yarra Valley landscape.



Combining a number of lifestyle activities for day visitors or overnight guests into one indulgent package. Our cellar door and caf are a must as part of your regional wine experience or you can take a little more time to relax at our onsite day spa, Indulge Spa Retreat. Incorporate all of the above and stay a day or two in one of our individually decorated luxurious accommodation. Immerse can also cater for all your private events, functions and special occasions, we take all of the stress and worry away from you.


Immerse has conference facilities, providing all the essential requirements for your conference, training day, seminar or development meeting. With state of the art audio visual equipment, wireless internet, secretarial assistance and if requested, exclusive use of Immerse. Weddings at Immerse offer everything in one location; stunning garden ceremonies with views of the vines, restaurant style receptions, indulgent day spa treatments and wedding night accommodations. Once you arrive, you won t ever want to leave.

Welcome to Indulge Spa and Wellness Retreat, a haven of peace and tranquillity in the heart of the Yarra Valley only one hour from Melbourne's CBD and Tullamarine Airport.


Let our highly trained therapists totally indulge and pamper you with a unique selection of spa treatments. Our private treatment rooms and state-of-the-art facilities provide guests with an opportunity to completely relax and de-stress, whether it be from a one hour spa treatment to a complete six hour top-to-toe treatment, accompanied by a delicious lunch.


We specialise in romantic couple s weekends, girls groups, weddings, health retreats and conferences and any special occasion. Spa co-ordinators can design a personalised spa and health programme for couples, groups or corporate events.


Relax in our beautiful guest lounge whilst taking in the stunning views of our vineyard. Enjoy a selection of hydrotherapy treatments, or a back massage in our spa pedi chairs whilst your therapist tends to your feet and hands. Why not prolong all this relaxation by staying a night or two in our deluxe accommodation suites on the vineyard and make it a true spa holiday with a delicious dinner or lunch in the Immerse Cafe. We can even arrange to add on a hot air ballooning experience, golf and a wine tour to enhance your weekend away.


Recently introduced to our spa programme are our new wellness retreats. Three and five day programmes and weekend retreats for couples and groups allow guests to improve their health and wellbeing in an environment of total relaxation and healing. Conducted by highly trained health professionals the programmes feature educational seminars, daily yoga and tai chi, delicious spa cuisine and luxurious accommodation.


Enhance your health and wellbeing, nourish your soul and replenish energy at Indulge Spa and Health Retreat.

Offering Japanese Bathing Rituals, massage, traditional Japanese soaking tubs, Men only facials and Japanese deep cleansing facials, body wraps and scrubs.

Kalorama Park is bordered by lush temperate forest on the eastern side and Dandenong Ranges National Park to the north and south, both of which provide numerous walking opportunities.


Things to see and do


* Enjoy a relaxing picnic in the area below the lower carpark which is surrounded by garden beds with elm trees, silver birch, pine trees and pin oaks, along with Australian native plants and ferns

* An expansive grassy area near the upper carpark is an ideal setting to spread out the picnic blanket and enjoy lunch. The views over the south-eastern face of the Ranges are spectacular from the upper carpark. A number of large eucalypt trees and tree ferns in the area offer ample shade to escape the summer heat

* Kalorama Lookout is located on the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road at the Five Ways intersection. The lookout provides one of the finest vantage points to view the Dandenong Ranges, surrounding foothills and Yarra Ranges in the distance

* A number of short walking tracks commence from each of the three carparks. These tracks are ideal for a short stroll before or after your barbecue lunch. The tracks pass through native forest, historical fruit orchards and exotic plantings

* Other bushwalking opportunities exist within the Doongalla section of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, located on Ridge Road opposite the Kalorama Lookout carpark (Melway ref: 52 H9)

* There are also a number of walking tracks in the Olinda section of the national park, located east of the lower carpark, down Barbers Road (Melway ref: 120 A12)

Katandra Gardens, a magnificent eight acre garden, overlooking the panoramic Yarra Valley and distant ranges features one of Victoria's premier collections of Australian Wildflowers.


One of 3 must-see gardens featured in the RHS UK journal and shown on TV "Gardening Australia" three times. Numerous collections of Australian plants including many rare and unusual ones.


ABC's Gardener of the Year 2005.


The garden, involved in the Open Garden Scheme, holds "Land for Wildlife" status, houses the OPCAA Correa Collection and has become a bird-haven, with over 75 species of birds being identified in the gardens.


Bus tours and Group tours are welcome and attract a charge per person for entry plus a guided tour. Booking for bus tours is essential. An off-road parking bay is available for bus parking.


Stay in delightful cottages set privately amidst this magnificent garden and then from this central location tour all the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs.


The garden has grass pathways winding amongst the garden beds and is gently sloping making easy access for senior groups, probus clubs, birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts and all other garden lovers.


An extensive range of exotics including Lilliums, Peonies and Bulbs.


Of special interest is a large landscaped wildlife lake. It is truly a garden for all seasons, where the beauty of creation blends with a gardener's dream.


Special features include self contained cottages and B&B accommodation, garden ponds, wheelchair friendly toilet and surrounds, garden seating and picnic facilities, light refreshments, tea and coffee making facilities, under -cover seating, barbecue, quiet relaxed atmosphere, panoramic views and personalised guided tours.


Nearby are other local attractions (lavender farm, wineries, fruit orchards, and museum), which could be part of a day's outing.


Now featured in the book, "Inspirational Gardens" by Pamela Westland and published in the UK by AA Publishing in October 2008.

Things to Do


* Tracks throughout the park enable you to plan a variety of short and long walks. The Lyrebird Track near the Masons Falls Picnic Area is suitable for people with limited mobility.

* Visit Masons Falls, and the interpretive display in the Visitor Centre (western section).

* Enjoy the wildflowers in spring and the views from the Mount Everard Track in the Jehosaphat Gully (eastern) section.

* Walk to Wombelano Falls in the Wombelano-Andrews Hill (northern) section.



Masons Falls Picnic Area


There is a designated accessible walk from the Masons Falls picnic area. It is a 500m sealed nature trail called the Lyrebird Walk. Lyrebirds are present in this area. The track has seating at regular intervals and is maintained by two volunteer groups. The track to the Falls is of a high standard and free of steps, but does have some steep sections. The picnic site is quite rough and sloping.


Jehosaphat Gully


Jehosaphat Gully picnic area has a sealed car park and a good standard of picnic furniture, barbecues and shelter. Gravel paths allow movement around the picnic area. There are only a few steep sections. The designated accessible toilet does not meet current access standards. There is a short circuit walk through the forest. It is only an informal path at this stage, and not designed for accessibility.


The Gums


A nature circuit walk from this site has a good flat and wide path, generally accessible to all abilities. Camp sites are flat, bare-earth under a tree canopy, and paths to the facilities are gravel.


Precautions


* Take warm clothing when walking in winter as it can be very cold and even snow.

* Carry water and wear a hat on summer walks.

* Check the Parks Victoria website for path closures.

Kookaberry Strawberry Farm is a family run business, having grown gorgeous berries to tickle anyone s fancy for 32 years. Hubby Tony decided to come up with an idea of utilising the not so marketable berries by producing jams which wife Frances makes. Frances jams have won several awards, Gold, Silver and Bronze at the Sydney fine food show and the Hobart fine food show thus making her jams popular, she also has now expanded producing coulis, she supplies quite a few local tea rooms with bulk jams that being Warratina Lavender Farm, Paperbark caf at Kuranga Native Nursery, Olinda Golf House and Katandra Gardens.



The jams and coulis are sold at various outlets, the Yering station farmers market, The Historical Railway Station Farmers Market at Yarra Glen ,local fruit shops, Kuranga Native Nursery,Gateway Estate in Coldstream, Olinda Golf House, Cheesefreaks in Healesville, Seville Fresh Fruit in Seville, Tessalaars Tulip Festival, wineries in NSW also in various other local outlets and markets and of course at the farmgate.



The Kookaberry farm is also part of the Yarra Valley regional food group trail, which focuses on local food and wine. Enjoy fresh or frozen strawberries, blackberries, boysenberries, loganberries and raspberries and of course the jams from the farm gate. Open seven days a week in season [October-June] from 9am to 5pm. Enquires can be made to Frances on the phone number above.

Kuranga Native Nursery has absolutely the largest range of Australian native plants... anywhere.



Winner of a number of awards, including the Best Large Victorian Garden Centre in 2009 Yates Nursery and Garden Industry Awards, and finalist in the Australian Retailers Association - Boutique Retailer of the Year.



Situated in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, in tranquil surroundings overlooking Olinda Creek and shrouded by stately white trunked manna gums. Our architect designed building features 100 year old massive wharf timbers and recycled ironbark exposed beams and houses our inspirational gift shop and the highly acclaimed Paperbark Cafe.



We invite you to come and experience the beauty, diversity and colour of our Australian native flora. We have the tiniest and the most delicate, the most sweetly scented, the prettiest and the most unusual.



Our Australian native plants have adapted to our Australian environment and climatic conditions over many years. Here at Kuranga we have... the toughest, most reliable and drought tolerant plants.



Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the right plant for a particular position in your garden - choice of plant is everything!



We stock a large range of nest boxes, birdbaths, water bowls and bird feeders. A superb and unusual range of garden sculptures and ornaments.



The gift shop offers an inspirational range of native bush foods and products made from our Australian flora. An extensive range of homewares and many ideas for practical home gardening including a huge range of native plant, gardening and Australiana books for children and adults.



We invite you to come and enjoy the Kuranga experience with us and our love and passion for Australian native plants.

Lake Mountain will be open for snow season 2009!



The Black Saturday fires caused significant damage to the resort, however the main building remains unscathed. With support from state and federal governments and with the commitment of Lake Mountain staff the resort with be open for the snow season.



Temporary buildings and containers are currently being set up, tracks are being cleared and new snow grooming machines and equipment are on their way.



Lake Mountain is Melbourne's closest alpine resort. After about a 2 hours drive from Melbourne, you can be standing in a winter wonderland. In summer enjoy the mountain scenery and fresh mountain air.


* The snow is beautiful

* Throw a snowball and make a snowman, be creative

* Toboggan or tube down a slope Ski around a winter playground. 37km of trails

* Have a ski lesson from a qualified instructor

* You can hire skis, toboggans and all your snow gear

* Have fun then have a coffee and some hot food from the Bistro or take away

* Easily accessible along a safe sealed road. It s a beautiful drive

* Affordable day out for the family or a group

* Mountain bike riding in summer

* Bushwalking in summer



The basics:


* Gates open at 7 am and close at 6.30 pm in winter

* Open all hours in summer

* Snow season opens in early June and can run through to October

* Entry: $35 per car on week ends $25 per car mid week in winter.

* $2 parking fee in summer

* Latest snow and road conditions are updated each day on the website

* Snow making when conditions are suitable



A trip to the snow at Lake Mountain this season will be a positive way to help the bushfire recovery effort. Visit our website with lots of information and photos.

With a backdrop of mountains, including the Dandenong and Yarra Ranges, this 38km trail passes through highly scenic landscapes that follow the Yarra River valley. Built in 1901, the railway line from Warburton once carried produce to Melbourne and delivered tourists to the area on the return trip. Today it is an exciting trail ride or series of short walks. Look out for kangaroos, bird life and spring wildflowers between Lilydale and Mt Evelyn, and butterflies and tree ferns on the way to Wandin. Stop off at the old railway station at Yarra Junction, now a pioneer museum, before taking in the magnificent views of the Central Highlands and Yarra Ranges National Park along the section to Wesburn, where you can relax at the Sam Knott Hotel (licenced 1863). From here it's another 5km to Warburton, a popular retreat and the end of the trail. Cycling the trail takes approximately three hours one way, on a good flat track. Or stop en route at the region's great cafes, pubs, wineries, restaurants and hotels.

Lirralirra is a tiny family owned winery at the Western end of the Yarra Valley less than an hour from Melbourne.


We produce small quantities of premium wines using hand picked grapes from vines planted in 1981. The vineyard is planted with Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernets and Pinot Noir. These wines have all received excellent reviews which can be perused on our website.


Our wines are only available from the cellar door, mailing list and selected restaurants.


The cellar door is open for tastings and sales on weekends and public holidays from 10am to 6pm, however as we are usually on the property at other times we welcome visitors by appointment or by 'chance'.


We look forward to seeing you!

Mandala Wines is the Yarra Valley s new wine and food destination. We are located on the Melba Highway in one of the Yarra Valley's most visited winery pockets.



A Mandala is a circle which signifies the elements that comprise what is important in life. Mandala Wines reflects our family s circle of life, the sharing of experiences and the quest to achieve balance.



Our quest to achieve balance, in everything we do, is reinforced in our winemaking vision. We seek to produce expressive, fruit driven wines that reflect their region and are a pleasure to drink.



On our vineyards in Dixon s Creek we grow sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Our smaller vineyard at Yarra Junction is exclusively planted to pinot noir, which excels in this pocket of the upper Yarra Valley.



In truly exceptional years, where there is complete harmony between climate, site and variety, single site wines may be produced the first is a pinot noir labelled The Prophet .



There is no need to rush at Mandala: whether it be over a tasting at the cellar door, enjoying casual tapas in the lounge with a glass of wine or a meal in our new restaurant looking out on the vineyard. Settle in and sample the wares of our Mediterranean influenced menu created by our Head Chef Mauro Callegari.



Come over to our place during Wine and Tapas Time and be treated to a complimentary tapas dish when your order a glass of Mandala wine in our Lounge. Available from 4 6pm every Friday & Saturday until the end of the year.



Take your time to explore the winery grounds spend a lazy Sunday on the lawn where the kids can feel at home or join us for some special community events throughout the year.

We are growers and retailers of apples, pears, peaches and nectarines including nashi. Open weekends for sales of fruit and fresh juices, dried fruit products and preserves.


Enquiries for wholesale pricing available on request.

The scenic attraction of the reservoir and European-style gardens has made it one of the most popular parks in Victoria.


Things to see and do


* Enjoy a picnic or a barbecue while watching the colourful parrots feeding

* Follow the 3 kilometres track through magnificent native bushland from Maroondah to Donnellys Weir Park and watch out for echidnas and Swamp Wallabies

* 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


Heritage


Maroondah Dam was completed in 1927 and the area below the wall landscaped in the early English tradition, creating a different character from that of most of Melbourne's reservoir parks which have concentrated on native trees and plants. Later development saw picnic areas developed with the native bush and the two forms are at once harmonious and interesting. The historic valve house and classical temple-like structure of the outlet tower reinforce the old world element.


Vegetation


Bush tracks lead through stands of eucalypts and dense undergrowth of native shrubs and grasses. Azaleas and rhododendrons, planted in gardens lining the main entrance road provide a colourful show in spring.


Fauna


Animals and birds which may be seen include wombats, wallabies, echidnas, lyrebirds, bronzewings, cockatoos, galahs, sacred ibis, king parrots, crimson rosellas, and, in the evenings, brushtail and ringtail possums, sugar and yellow-bellied gliders and tawny frogmouths.

Lillydale Estate has been part of the family-owned McWilliam's group since 1994, with Max McWilliam in charge of the Victorian arm of the family empire. The recently renovated restaurant is a lovely place to spend a few hours peacefully gazing over the distant Mt. Toolebewong Ranges, soaking in the tranquil surroundings on the fairer side of the Yarra Valley.


The wines, particularly the range of award winning whites, are very good indeed. In warmer years the Cabernet Merlot blend can be quite delicious. The cool climate Shiraz has a great pedigree, winning three trophies in its first two vintages since 2001.






Established:



1976




Wine Region:



Yarra Valley




Winemakers:



Jim Brayne and Max McWilliam




Owners:



McWilliam's Wines Pty Ltd




Cellar Door:



Manager - Andrew Cove/Belinda Maggs




Open:



Cellar Door 11am-5pm daily. Restaurant 12pm-3pm on weekends only Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday.




Wines:



Lillydale Range-


* Sauvignon Blanc

* Gewurtztraminer

* Chardonnay

* Rose

* Pinot Noir

* Shiraz

* Cabernet Merlot


Plus a selection of other McWilliam's wines from Australia's premium wine regions and overseas.




Price:



Lillydale range of wines from $20 Others from $10




Food:



Great Aussie indoor BBQ where guests can select a range of items from the menu and BBQ it themselves. Garden fresh salads, great cakes and coffee. Informal/Relaxed.




Functions:



30 to 50 people in the restaurant




Conferences:



Up to 12 people in the boardroom




Weddings:



Up to 120 people. Restaurant with BBQ if bride and groom are looking for something different, or more traditional options are available.

Medhurst Wines is the realisation of the vision of Ross and Robyn Wilson to produce quality cool climate wines from their unique property in the Yarra Valley.


The property represents one of the best vineyard sites and is also of exceptional beauty.


The vines are planted to intercept sunshine at the right level for flavour development. Variety flavours are further enhanced through hand picking the fruit at low yields to ensure only the best fruit is used to make the wine.


The results are wines which express the unique conditions at Medhurst, as individual and beautiful as the property itself.


Wines produced are Chardonnay, Rose, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines continue to receive critical acclaim.


We have just opened a new cellar door which provides wonderful views of the Yarra Valley and its ranges.


We invite you to taste our quality wines in a family friendly setting and to share in our dream. Why not come up and visit us and see what all the fuss is about?

We begin the day with a briefing with your tandem sky dive instructor. This includes what to expect and what you will see on the plane flight to height, in freefall, under canopy and upon landing.



The briefing takes approximately 15 minutes. Our tandem jump masters have completed 1000's jumps and are members of the Australian Parachute Federation. Once the briefing is over, it will be time to gear up in preparation for your sky diving experience. You will be given a jumpsuit and your instructor will fit you into a harness.



You will walk out to the plane and there you will conduct your practice exits. Once all the ground preparation has been completed, it is time to get in the plane and get ready for take-off! You can expect to jump from a height of 12,000 feet.



As we leave the airfield, you will be treated to a scenic tour of the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong ranges as well as the city of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.



Once we reach height, it will be time to prepare you for the jump. The door opens and as you leave the plane, you and your tandem master will accelerate through the air reaching terminal velocity - 220km/h. Freefall feels like riding a cushion of air similar to riding a big wave. In freefall, your senses will be able to take in stunning views as far as the eye can see. Then finally it's time to pull your parachute open.



From the loud rushing of air that you hear all around you, the parachute ride is very different as you sail around the sky, gliding.



The landing is easy, just lift your legs. The parachute will glide and you will eventually put your feet down to land.

Located a short distance from Melbourne's CBD, Melbourne's Valley of the Arts has long been a region of creative inspiration. The area boasts fabulous art, architecture, parks, gardens, food and wine, and offers visitors the opportunity to discover and experience what has captured the imagination of some of Australia's great artists.



It is a historic region with a wide range of influences, having been home to the Wurundjeri Aborigines, the internationally recognized Heidelberg School of Artists, the first European farming settlers outside of Melbourne and the site of Victoria's first gold discovery at Warrandyte. Heide Museum of Modern Art, often described as an incubator for Australian modernism, has a strong association with artists including Sidney Nolan, Arthur Boyd, Albert Tucker and Joy Hester and remains a major attraction of the Valley of the Arts. Heide's recent redevelopment ensures that it will continue to be a central part of the region's cultural identity.



The 1930s architectural masterpiece Monsalvat at Eltham is a series of unique and distinctive buildings in the European style set in over 12 acres of parkland. Montsalvat's galleries, working artists' studios, gardens and Great Hall are well worth visiting during your exploration of the area. The descendants of the Wurundjeri also retain an interest in the area and their tradition lives on in the indigenous art galleries and Aboriginal sites of the region, most notably the Bolin Bolin Billabong.



There is always plenty to see and do in the region throughout the year, with festivals, theatre productions, artists open studios, indigenous programs, fruit picking, heritage walking tours, the Heidelberg School Artists' Trail, the Mullum Cultural Heritage Trail, the JA Turner Artist Trail, wineries, galleries and studios all offering a distinct cultural experience. Or just take in the natural heritage of the region's diverse nature reserves, river land parks and gardens.

Graeme Miller is a pioneer of the 60s/70s rebirth of the Yarra Valley as a wine region. He established Chateau Yarinya at Dixons Creek in 1971 and was soon drawing attention to the region by winning major wine show awards, including the 1978 Jimmy Watson Trophy. The attention included the De Bortoli family who were looking for a premium cool climate site and in 1987 they purchased the property. Selecting a new site within a kilometre of his original vineyard, Graeme began planting Dixons Creek Estate in 1988. Chosen for its excellent north and north east facing slopes, today it covers 57.5 hectares, with 30.5 hectares under vine.


Grape varieties grown include Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. Graeme made a return to winemaking because of his belief in regional difference and the Yarra Valley as an excellent wine producing area. Graeme and his wife Bernadette opened cellar door at the new site and reflect strong environmental stewardship in the practices in the winery and the vineyard.


Millers Dixons Creek Estate produces fine Yarra Valley wines, available through mailing list, online, cellar door, selected retail and on-premise outlets. All wines produced are estate grown, single vineyard, with the exception of a small amount of Cabernet /Franc purchased from a nearby vineyard and used in the Bordeaux-style blend.


Graeme is working to produce long-lived wines, not dominated by alcohol, which reflect the depth and complexity he believes the Yarra Valley as a premium, cool climate, wine region can produce.



Wines include Sparkling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet, Quatrain (Bordeaux style blend), Petit Verdot and Vintage Port.



Cellar door is open 7 days, offers spectacular views of the valley and overlooks the working winery. Winery tours are available.

Experience part of Wandin's heritage.


High on a hill, with the mountain ranges as a backdrop, this 1880's pioneer home sits lovingly restored and furnished by the Wandin community.


The house, built of hand made bricks produced on the site, was finished in 1880's. It was built by Henry Sebire, a stonemason, who originally came from Guernsey in the Channel islands.


Journey back to pioneer life in the 1800's as your guide escorts you through the homestead, St. Mary's Chapel, the historic garden and other interesting buildings. View the collection of artefacts in our Museum.


If you visit us at the weekend, you may watch our blacksmiths at work in the purpose built blacksmiths facility. During the week, you may see one of the local schools participating in activities of the late 1800's.


A beautiful venue for a Chapel or Garden Wedding/Reception.


The whole property is readily accessible by wheel-chair.

Montsalvat is the first and oldest artist colony built in Australia. Set on 12 acres in Eltham, it consists of a series of unique and distinctive buildings classified by the National Trust, Heritage Victoria and the Australian Heritage Commission. Built in reminiscence of a European provincial village, it stands as a testament to the vision of one man, Justus Jorgensen


History


Architect-Painter Justus J rgensen bought the land that became Montsalvat in 1934 with the dream of creating a community where the Arts were practiced and nurtured. A student of the controversial Melbourne painter Max Meldrum, Justus inspired his own students with a similar discipline and with their enthusiastic cooperation and loyal support, the creation of Montsalvat began. Justus pioneered the modern day use of mud bricks and the Pis technique, and recycled materials which he sourced both locally and from city building sites.


Today


Now the oldest Artists colony in Australia, this national icon is still a working Arts Centre with resident artists and studios, picturesque gardens and unique historic buildings.


A 20 minute scenic drive from central Melbourne, a day s activities can involve visiting the Barn Gallery and Long Gallery Exhibitions before enjoying a sumptuous lunch in the Montsalvat Restaurant and courtyard. Spend the afternoon exploring the rest of Montsalvat s grounds and buildings, walking amongst the resident peacocks, geese, and ducks. Take a step back in time and see & touch the life of a true visionary.


The Montsalvat annual programmes of events include Sunday music concert series, exhibitions and festivals of food/wine, poetry and theatre.


Further Information


Montsalvat has an ongoing commitment to nurture and promote the arts through it s many community events. For further general information, or on how to support Montsalvat please go to our web page or call us for further information.

The Mount Dandenong Arboretum extends over 16 hectares and contains a collection of maturing deciduous trees and conifers from around the world. 'Arboretum' is a Latin word meaning a place for trees and an Arboretum can simply be called a 'tree museum'.


Things to do


* Enjoy a relaxing sensory experience of walking under mature tree canopies, scrunching on aromatic pine needles and looking upward through branches to the sky.

* Picnic in the meadow with views to the Great Dividing Range framed by tall trees.

* Walk up to Mount Dandenong Observatory for the spectacular view east across the city of Melbourne or walk along one of the many tracks in the Dandenong Ranges National Park trail network.



For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.

The National Rhododendron Gardens are host to an unparalleled variety of brilliantly coloured blooms, mainly rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and daffodils. Of international reputation, these magnificent gardens attract 30,000 visitors annually.


Situated on a hilltop in the scenic Dandenong Ranges, these gardens are framed by the world's tallest flowering plant, the Mountain Ash, and set against a backdrop of the blue Australian Alps. The National Rhododendron Gardens are host to 15,000 rhododendrons, 12,000 azaleas, 3,000 camellias and 250,000 daffodils.


In spring and autumn it is clothed in colour and perfume. The garden also features moorlands, rock gardens, fern gullies and sweeping lawns.


Things to do


* Enjoy a self-guided tour, strolling through 43 hectares (103 acres) of scenic botanic gardens.

* Enjoy a picnic by the lake and take in stunning views of the Australian Alps.

* Photograph the native birdlife and brilliant floral scenery.

* During the Spring Floral Festival held annually from August to November visitors can enjoy a series of undercover floral displays, including the largest undercover display of daffodils in the Southern Hemisphere.



For the latest information on track closures and park access, please see the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire smart. Follow the Parks Victoria checklist before travelling.

Giving yourself up to the luxury of spa treatments is a blissful experience. Doing so in the tranquil environs of the Yarra Valley, with the highly trained Natskin staff you will be transported to a heavenly state.


Natskin Spa Retreat offers a comprehensive range of beauty and therapeutic treatments designed to re-balance and de-stress.


Stunning private treatment rooms, hydrotherapy, guest lounge area and manicure/pedicure suite ensure you are completely cared for.


Natskin treatments have been designed for the ultimate in personal pampering. Indulge yourself with luxurious skin and body care treatments and massage therapies.


At Natskin it is our pleasure to design a treatment or spa package to suit your personal preference and desired outcome.


Our therapists have been meticulously trained to provide treatments with a sophisticated approach to skin and body wellness.


Treatments can be booked individually, or in a complementary combination for top to toe relaxation.


Couples bookings are also available for those special occasions or simply to spend time immersed in each other's company.


Your Natskin experience will not only make you feel great, but will deliver results and a desire to come back again and again and again.

Oakridge wines are characterised by their restraint and finesse and demonstrate true regional and varietal expression.



This is achieved by carefully sourcing fruit for each varietal from the most suitable sub-region in the Yarra Valley. Meticulous viticulture, modern winemaking technology and traditional techniques have resulted in well -balanced wines showing intense varietal flavours.


Sought by discerning and knowledge wine lovers, Oakridge has earned its reputation through constant success on the wine show circuit, and regular endorsement from high profile wine writers.

Olinda Golfhouse Cafe/Restaurant is open to everyone. The café is licensed, it's a relaxed place to enjoy a beer, wine or coffee with lunch, Devonshire tea or snacks overlooking the golfers and first tee on the golf course.


The views are fabulous and surpassed only by our food! With a team of local, passionate and dedicated staff everyone can enjoy our relaxed atmosphere and a culinary experience you'll want to repeat.


Located in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges the cafe looks across the Yarra Valley to the Warburton Ranges during the day and with floodlights at night, it is fabulous for a group booking or a great place to party.


The Golfhouse & Club rooms are open seven days a week and closed at night except for pre-booked functions and events.


Olinda Golf Course - Play at Olinda and boast about it. The Public Golf Course has 18 holes and is open to everyone seben days a week. While it's a tough course to play, it is relaxed with majestic scenery, and a great place to learn to play golf, improve your skills or just catch up with a group of friends.


Because of the relaxed atmosphere, Olinda Golf Course is an ideal place for corporate golf days, social or charity fundraising games.


A round of 9 or 18 hole golf, along with golf clubs, cart or buggy hire can be arranged in either the Pro Shop or the cafe. Green Fees and other information are on our website.


The golf course is surrounded by B&B's and only 500 metres from the Olinda Village shopping precinct with plenty of parking. What better way to enjoy the Dandenong Ranges.


Special functions such and weddings, corporate golf days, birthdays, trade events and social outings are regularly catered for in the club rooms, cafe, pavilion or marquees on the golf course.

Outlook Hill Vineyard is owned and operated by Peter and Lydia Snow and is located between the two wine touring highways - Maroondah and Melba that wind through Victoria's top wine region. The slopes of Outlook Hill command panoramic views of the Yarra Valley wine country and surrounding hills in a perfect setting for all seasons to retreat and relax, be with friends, enjoy great food and wine.


In addition to the vineyard, the Snows have luxury boutique cottage accommodation and an acclaimed restaurant on the same vineyard slopes. The family give a high priority to the production of ultra premium wines. The show awards and media results to date they are particularly proud of successive year top 5 Australasian finalist wines in the National Winestate magazine's annual awards for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties.


There are serveral explanations for the continuing success of Outlook Hill as an important regional producer since establishment in 2000:-


* The Snows planted out, live and work on the single vineyard property.

* A low intervention, organic (as practicable) viticulture policy resulting in healthy soils, vines and wine for the table.

* Ancient shallow soils with heavy clay subsoil providing a natural contribution to low vine vigour/yields and high fruit quality.

* Single vineyard fruit, uncluttered focussed wines with individuality.

* Emphasis on regional character/terroir expression in the wines: e.g. Cabernet with a rich, chocolatey, concentration of fruit and tannins; Pinot Noir with good layering of spice and earthiness and velvet texture; Chardonnay with a minerality and acid balance particular to the Yarra Valley.

Enjoy a friendly get together with family, friends or work colleagues or simply treat yourself to a peaceful and relaxing break at the Paperbark Cafe. We're open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and morning and afternoon teas.


Our seasonal lunch menu features a wide range of fresh and delicious choices prepared from the finest local ingredients. Freshly made soup with crusty, fragrant damper, beautifully prepared pastry and creamy pasta dishes, crisp salads, frittatas, foccacias, pizzas, wraps and our daily specials, all with a subtle native twist - and a tempting selection of desserts. Carefully chosen Yarra Valley wines and boutique beers compliment your selection.


Or perhaps spend a leisurely afternoon with a bottle of local wine and a delicious dip, cheese or cake platter.


Our superb Yarra Coffee can be enjoyed with one of the many cakes, slices, muffins, croissants or wattleseed scones. Our ever-changing menu is prepared on the premises by our talented chefs.


Enjoy airconditioned or heated indoor comfort, or eat outdoors under wide verandahs in tranquil surrounds.


Set menus are available for group bookings for breakfast and lunch. Bus tours welcome.


As members of the Yarra Valley Regional Food Group, we proudly support the food and wine producers of the Yarra Valley and use local products and indigenous flavours in our menu.


Paperbark Cafe is open 7 days a week, 8.30am - 4.30pm.

Rainforest Dreaming



Piaf Salon & Day Spa Yarra Valley Healesville specialises in massage, relaxation & luxury treatments for individuals, couples & small groups. Step into a magical world surrounded by ancient tree ferns and tall peaceful gums.



Relax, refresh & rejuvenate as you experience luxurious facial, body & massage therapies in a tranquil environment where time stands still. Piaf Salon & Day Spa-Dreaming is just the beginning....The only sounds to be heard are the native bird calls softly underlaid by the wind whispering through the lush tree ferns.



All our treatment rooms feature stunning views with total privacy. Relax on the coco leather lounge suites in our beautiful Guest lounge. Lockers, robes & slippers are provided for your convenience. Two new detox far infrar - red saunas feature views to the living forest whilst ensuring private use for you or your group.



The pedi-spa bath chair with 4 powerful jets gives your feet a fabulous treat whilst our new dual shower room enhances your Romantic experience. The hydrotherapy spa is completely private for single, couples or your group use only. The Romantic Duo Package is our signature treatment for couples seeking the ultimate pampering experience. Allow 3.75hrs cost AUD650 per couple.



Euphoric gold salt glow exfoliation, fizzing cocoa bean or red grape energy body wraps, Intensif facials: cleanse, exfol, divine massage, serums, 2 masks, spritz & moisturise, dual shower, heated aromatic stones massage, duo infrar- red sauna, private hydro-spa. Morn/afternoon tea includes a selection of leaf teas, freshly brewed coffee & triple choc cake. Natural spring waters from Mt Tooblewong will be served through out your treatments.



Listen to your heart. Take time to relax and unwind with your choice of Piaf nurture and care treatments. All our treatments will enhance your well being, nourishing and restoring life's balance.

The garden is particularly beautiful in autumn when the trees change colour to the many hues of orange, red and yellow. In spring the rock garden and woodland plants are at their best.


Things to Do


* Enjoy magnificent views and tranquil walks, bird watching, photography and informal picnicking on the lawns at Pirianda Gardens.

* From the pathway across the top of open lawns at Pirianda, the view south takes in Kallista and the valley of Sassafras Creek and parts of Sherbrooke Forest. On a clear day you can see Arthur's Seat on the Mornington Peninsula and French Island in Westernport.

* Several walking paths cross the steep slopes through the gardens and a sign-posted pathway and garden map indicate points of interest.

* A gazebo located near the top of the garden is an excellent location for your picnic and it is also available for hire for weddings and wedding photography.



Heritage



Once a site for carrot and potato farming, Pirianda Gardens was started approximately 40 years ago and with the exception of the tree ferns and Blackwood trees in the gully the property was cleared.


In 1959 it was purchased by Mr and Mrs Harvey Ansell of Ansell Industries who built the Ansell house in 1962, after which work began on clearing the land of blackberries and establishing the garden. Many of the plants in the garden came from overseas and the Ansells during their travels personally collected some. The gardens were opened to the public in 1977 when the family gave Pirianda to the State government.

Punt Road is a major thoroughfare in the middle of Melbourne. Considered one of the busiest roads in Melbourne, it is walking distance from the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Royal Botanical Gardens.


Punt Road began in the 1850 s as a quiet dirt road that ran into Yarra River. The road was surrounded by some of the first vineyards in Victoria, and was linked across the river by a punt, which would ferry people and goods to the other side. A bridge now stands where the punt once was, and the vineyards have been re-established throughout the Yarra Valley, where the grapes for this wine are grown today.


The Punt Road range consists of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Late Harvest Semillon. When vintage conditions permit, exclusive parcels will be labelled under the Punt Road MVN reserve label.

The eight acre vineyard in Kangaroo Ground at the Western end of the Yarra Valley in the Shire of Nillumbik was planted to Riesling, Chardonnay and Cabernet in 1986.
The property was named "Wildfell" by a pioneering Scotsman, Walter Wippel, who settled this property in the Kangaroo Ground area in the early 1850's; establishing orchards, market gardens and grazing land.


No doubt, wine production was high on the list of priorities, and the rich decomposed volcanic soils assisted in this pursuit.


Over 150 years on, the Kangaroo Ground area has seen the establishment of a number of new vineyards due to the high quality of the fruit and ideal growing conditions. It's proximity to Melbourne and the rolling hills broken by dense stands of Red Box and other eucalypts makes it a haven for weekend visitors and wine tasters from all over.


Enjoy your visit on any Saturday or Sunday at the Redbox Cellar Door in Ness Lane, Kangaroo Ground - in the high country at the west end of the Yarra Valley, where excellence attracts the wine buff, and the Nillumbik landscape enchants all those who venture to explore.

'Arboretum' is a Latin word meaning a place for trees and an Arboretum can simply be called a 'tree museum'.


Things to Do


* Open daily with free admission, there are many things to see and do at the RJ Hamer Arboretum.

* The picnic area with free electric barbecues is a great place to meet with family and friends.

* Stroll, jog or run through the mix of exotic and native tree species or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views across the Yarra Valley out to the Warburton Ranges and beyond.

* The RJ Hamer Arboretum lookout on Woolrich Road hosts two paintings featured in the Heidelberg School Artists Trail. The paintings are "Golden afternoon in Olinda" c 1924 and "View from Farmer's, Olinda" c 1924, both by Arthur Streeton.



Heritage



The RJ Hamer Arboretum land is a small part of the original Dandenong and Woori Yallock State forest, proclaimed over 110 years ago. A succession of fires destroyed the original eucalypt forest and during 1948 -1955 softwood trees were planted on site as part of plans to improve Victoria's timber supplies.


The fires of 1962 destroyed the majority of these post war plantings and the government then investigated the future use of the area. Plans were developed for the establishment of an exotic forest Arboretum to be used as part of a firebreak for the Olinda township. The RJ Hamer Arboretum is the first known occasion in which a forest style Arboretum was completely established by planting. A basic planting design was completed in 1970 and planting was carried out for the next 15 years.

At Rochford Wines we aim to provide all visitors to our Cellar Door, Restaurant, Cafe and series of Concerts with a level of service that exceeds your expectations.


Sample award-winning wines at our Cellar Door

Match our wines with our seasonal Restaurant menu whilst over looking our vineyard and surrounding ranges

Enjoy our Summer series of concerts (see our website for concert dates)

Enjoy a light lunch in our Cafe

Please note: This tourism business has been seriously affected by the Victorian bushfires and is not in operation. It would be appreciated if you do not attempt to contact the business at this time. For information on advanced bookings or cancellations, please contact Yarra Valley and The Dandenongs Marketing on +613 5962 7000 or info@yrrml.com.au for assistance. Thank you for your patience with this matter.

Tourism Victoria


"Roundstone is one of the picturesque smaller vineyards that make a tour through the gently rolling hills of the Yarra Valley so interesting. A big part of the approach here is to make wines that are appropriate to good food, and to that end proprietors John and Lynne Derwin operate a smart restaurant with Lynne as chef. The wines employ the usual Yarra varieties with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay being specialities. John is the winemaker with advice coming from Rob Dolan, who knows the region so well." Ralph Kyte-Powell









Established:




1998






Wine Region:




Yarra Valley






Winemaker:




John Derwin






Owners:




John and Lynne Derwin






Cellar Door:




Manager - John and Lynne Derwin






Open:




10am-5pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays or by appointment






Wines:




Chardonnay, Ros , Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot.






Price:




$15.00-$35.00






Food:




Provincial French from wood fired oven.






Functions:




Up to 200 people. Idyllic setting with rooms opening onto lake and vineyard.






Conferences:




Up to 50 people in private room with balconies over vineyard and lake.






Weddings:




Up to 150 people

Samson Hill Winery and Vineyard at Kangaroo Ground, 28 kilometres north east of Melbourne CBD, was established in 1998 on a spectacular location overlooking the City of Melbourne, the surrounding mountains to Kinglake, the Dandenong's and much more.


The views are second to none and the clean air is plentiful. The concept of the founding family was to strive for quality only and develop full bodied rich reds and crisp fruity whites. Wines that can be enjoyed immediately but may also be kept in cellar for many years and would mature beautifully.


The varieties grown on the property are, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Verdelho. From these the founders have produced a full bodied Shiraz, a bold Pinot Noir, a delicate Rose and two varieties from the Verdhelo - a sweet and a dry, both with the same bold fruity, floral nose and crisp melon characters ( very popular).


The Cellar door is open for free tastings daily and meals are also available. The staff are friendly and only too willing to chat about the wine or recommend other places of interest for tourists.

When Dr Peter Mc Mahon planted the first vines at Seville Estate in 1972, it marked the rebirth of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine region. By the end of the decade Dr McMahon and his wife Margaret, along with producers such as Mount Mary, Yeringberg, Yarra Yering, St Huberts and the like were fashioning wines that served to re-establish the lofty reputation the Yarra Valley had enjoyed in the 19th century.


From its first vintage, Seville Estate quickly established itself as one of the Yarra Valley's finest producers. Surprisingly in a region more renowned for its red wines produced from Cabernet and Pinot Noir, it was the Seville Estate Shiraz that received the most attention, quickly becoming one of Victoria's most sought after wines. These wines that have been called "one of Victoria's best kept secrets" are now some of the most stylish on the market, with back vintage tastings showing their superb ageing capacity.


A new generation of the McMahon family has also become involved in Seville Estate. Peter and Margaret's grandson, Dylan is now the winemaker, following the passion ignited a generation before. The Seville style focuses on elegance and finesse, while showing fantastic complexity and structure. They are cool climate classics that stay true to the vineyard and vintage influences.


Today 35 years after Peter and Margaret started the dream; Seville Estate enters its third phase.


Graham and Margaret Van Der Meulen purchased the property in December 2005. They are fully hands-on in the vineyard, winery, and cellar door and plan to continue Seville's long-established record of producing consistently high quality wines.


Seville Estate continues to produce wines that are simply "Yarra Classics". Wines you can be proud to serve with a confidence that is borne of history and passion.

The involvement of John and Josie D Aloisio in the agricultural industry began over 30 years ago culminating with the establishment of Seville Hill Vineyard and Winery in 1991.



Located in the picturesque country town of Seville in the heart of the Yarra Valley, John and Josie have produced quality fruit from 43 acres of deep rich volcanic soil which has been the foundation and has led to the development of Seville Hill Wines.


Summer Jazz at Seville Hill has become a regular event held during October to April every year, have a BBQ lunch or a cheese platter while enjoying a glass of wine, spectacular views and soothing music.


Bundaleer House, a 3 bedroom fully contained home with large living area is available or up to 6 people with a continental breakfast included. Situated at the foot of the vineyard with a beautiful garden and an abundance of bird life.

"Shantell is at the sleepier end of the Yarra Valley where the vineyards start to peter out as the road weaves its way into the forested foothills of the Great Divide. It's where the real "country" seems to start and is an ideal place to stop and enjoy a light lunch on the shady verandah. Be sure to taste Shantell's first-rate Chardonnay and well-constructed but not too heavy Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines are well-priced relative to their high quality." Ralph Kyte-Powell









Established:



1980




Wine Region:



Yarra Valley




Winemakers



Turid and Shan Shanmugam




Owners:



Turid and Shan Shanmugam




Cellar Door:



Manager - Jane Selman




Open:



10.30am-5pm daily




Wines



Sparkling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.




Price:



$15.00-$35.00




Food:



Food designed to complement the wines.




Functions:



Up to 30 people.




Facilities:



Verandah overlooking the vines.

Shaws Road Winery and Eltham Vineyards


Situated high on a hill with magnificent views over the Strathewen Valley to the Great Dividing Ranges at Kinglake. The City of Melbourne is also visible from the highpoint of property 36km to the south. The 5 acre vineyard produces excellent Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet fruit. The soil structure is shallow grey loam over mudstone which together with the average rainfall of around 500mm (in a good year!) naturally produced low yields of premium fruit. Vines were planted in 1986 and 1996.


Our cellar door is located within the winery building. The tasting area and caf can comfortably accommodate 20 people. Wheel chair access and facilities are available.The views from the cellar door are amongst the best around and can be enjoyed from the large external seating area. Gourmet cheese and antipasto platters are normally available. We can also cater for small functions subject to appointment.


Visitors are welcome to inspect our winery, vineyard and underground cellar. Barrel sampling is available by appointment.


The winery is open every 3rd Sunday of the Month of by appointment any other time.


New Release Wines Include:


Rose 2008

Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Chardonnay 2007

Chardonnay 2008

Cabernet Sauvignon 2006


In addition to running our own estate vineyards we also offer management services for vineyards in the local area on either a contract or rates basis. The Apted family has well over 100 years farming experience in the Diamond Valley. We currently manage over 50 acres of vineyards. We have a full range of modern vineyard equipment and can also provide labour for pruning, picking, wire lifting, shoot thinning, stem rubbing etc.


For more information please visit our website.

The beautifully landscaped picnic areas and open lawns of Silvan Reservoir Park help to make it an ideal location for a day away from it all.

Things to Do


* Try one of the forest walking tracks that commence from the Overflow Carpark.

* Visit the lookout for views of the reservoir and outlet tower

* Enjoy a family picnic or barbecue

* Follow the Stonyford Creek self-guided nature trail, a 30 minute walk that passes through moist eucalypt forest and gullies of tall tree ferns

Nestled in a beautiful cottage in the centre of Healesville, Silvermist Studio is both the home and gallery of Goldsmith Tim Peel.


Tim, a Fellow of the Gold and Silversmiths Guild of Australia, has been designing handmade jewellery for more than 20 years. He hammers, bends forges silver, gold and platinum around precious gemstones such as diamond, sapphire and ruby to create something special for every important occasion.


Perhaps the most special occasion of all, planning your engagement and wedding is the perfect reason to visit Silvermist Studio and have Tim design and create the ideal rings for you. "Buying the engagement ring is so romantic that you should make it into a lasting memory." Why not enjoy a wonderful weekend away in Healesville with its romantic getaways and stunning food and wine.

Get some perspective and escape the noise and pressures of the concrete jungle. Less than 1 hour (from the Melbourne CBD) you can be SkyHigh - on the uppermost reach of the Dandenong Ranges, amid cool fern glades and lush towering (native) forest, looking at the big picture, from the Mornington Peninsula across the majestic sweep of Port Phillip Bay, surrounded by Melbourne's growing urban fringes, to the You Yangs on the southern horizon.


After sunset the southern sky, brilliant in the clear mountain night, is imitated by a spectacular carpet of city light. First established as a survey point in 1861 this historic area, which has recently undergone a lavish and sympathetic redevelopment, affords a unique overview of Greater Melbourne.


Enjoy the unparalleled vista from the SkyHigh Bistro or fire up a public barbecue; spread a rug and picnic on the elevated viewing terrace. SkyHigh has something for the whole family including:-


* English garden

* Australiana Tree

* Percy Possums House

* Giant's Chair

* Adventurous SkyHigh Maze

* Trail walks in the Dandenong Ranges National Park

* Wishing Tree

* Arthur Streaton Monument

* Viewing Binoculars

* Cake and coffee

"The modern St.Huberts estate is the reincarnation of one of Victoria's most famous and historic vineyard properties. 120 years ago St.Huberts' wines were the toast of the colony, winning awards internationally, as well as mightily pleasing the grandees back home.


Today's St.Huberts was one of the properties that launched the Yarra Valley's second golden age in the 1960s, and the wines continue to be good examples of regional styles. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon are the stars here; don't miss them." Ralph Kyte-Powell






Established:



1862 Rebirth : 1966







Wine Region:



Yarra Valley




Winemakers:



Greg Jarratt




Cellar Door:



Tasting Supervisor - Carmel Taylor




Open:



9.30am-5pm Weekdays, 10.30am-5.30pm Weekends and Public Holidays.




Wines:



Selection of St Huberts & Yarra Ridge wines available for tasting daily


Sauvignon Blanc, Roussanne, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, & Late Harvest Rielsing




Price:



$15.00-$30.00

"Steels Creek is a small winery sourcing fruit from only 1.7 hectares of vines. Despite their size, the red wines are made on site by Simon Peirce and the white wines made with assistance from consultants.


The Cabernet Sauvignon has been a successful wine, even in 1996 which was a difficult year to ripen the grapes. A spicy and peppery Shiraz is gaining popularity together with the Co Lombard which is a unique varietal for the Yarra Valley." Stuart Gregor

The Sticks cellar door, situated in the heart of the Yarra Valley, offers the visitor a myriad of experiences. Enjoy tasting the full range of award winning Sticks wines with our friendly staff, pick up a bottle of our cellar door only specials, browse our local produce on sale, view the works of our artist of the month or simply relax by the fire with a glass of Sticks and enjoy the view. You may even bumb into the infamous Rob Sticks Dolan for a glass or two!


The Sticks story begins with Rob 'Sticks' Dolan, the founding winemaker, who had the nickname Sticks bestowed on him during his days as the ruckman for Aussie Rules Football team Port Adelaide and standing at 6 foot 6, it is rather apt. Having established a reputation as one of the Yarra Valley s leading winemakers, Rob has pulled together a young, vibrant and highly regarded winemaking team who are as serious about the sticks in the vineyard as Rob is about his footy.


Now into its seventh vintage, Sticks is recognised as a leading producer of quality Yarra Valley wines that offer supreme value for money. The Sticks style is one of unique, fruit driven and imminently fresh wines that marry beautifully with food.


And despite working hard, the Sticks team will always find time for the Aussie Rules footy season, hence the Sticks Footy Tipping Competition best played from www.sticks.com.au with a glass of Sticks in your hand!


We look forward to seeing you very soon.

Rising from the rustic, weather-beaten remnants of a barn left idle for generations, Stones of the Yarra Valley has emerged as the region's premiere location for celebration.



With uninterrupted views across vines to the blue-tinged Great Divide, Stones of the Yarra Valley is located on one of the most picturesque and historic properties in the Yarra Valley, combining a restaurant, wine tasting centre and events venue with a stunning rough-rendered wedding chapel nestled under century-old oak trees.



From intimate concerts by artists including James Morrison, John Williamson, Sarah Blasko and Joe Camilleri, to lavish Sunday banquets with internationally-renowned chef Greg Malouf, Stones of the Yarra Valley has firmly established itself as one of the most exciting, stylish and sophisticated destinations in the Yarra Valley.



Visitors to Stones of the Yarra Valley can also sample over 30 of the region s finest wines in our wine-tasting area, enjoy a casual a la carte lunch incorporating the very best in regional produce or experience our free Music in the Chapel series on selected Sundays.


Come and see what all the fuss is about.

Things to see and do


* Have a picnic at Ironbark Ridge or Saddle Dam Picnic Areas overlooking the reservoir.

* Try shoreline fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, redfin, roach or European carp.

* See the eastern grey kangaroos or black-tailed wallabies that live throughout the park.

* 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 on (03) 9730 1885. A launching fee may be charged.

* If you are keen to walk the entire 18kilometre main Sugarloaf Walking Track you must contact the ranger to register on (03) 9844 2659. Please keep to the tracks and comply with park closing times.


Heritage


Sugarloaf Reservoir was developed during the late 1970's to help supplement Melbourne's domestic water supply. Unlike many other Reservoirs, which draw their water directly from protected forested catchments, Sugarloaf is fed by the Maroondah Aqueduct and the Yarra River. Upon leaving the Reservoir, water is thoroughly treated at the Winneke Water Treatment Plant to World Health Organisation Guidelines, before reaching Melbourne's domestic water supply.

Sutherland Estate is a family-owned, boutique enterprise in the heart of the premium, cool climate wine growing region of the Yarra Valley.



Our property consists of 110 acres, which is mostly undisturbed native bushland. The hill on the northern end of the property, upon which our cellar door is built, is known as Daniel s Hill.



We have four small vineyard blocks totalling approximately 12 acres, with the original block planted in 1995. Varieties planted include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, with small parcels of Gew rztraminer and Tempranillo.



Most vineyard management is carried out by hand to ensure the highest quality fruit. This includes hand pruning, bunch thinning, leaf plucking and early morning hand-picking.



The cool climate of our site (and the Yarra in general) provides a longer than usual ripening season, which in turn produces wines of varietal intensity, together with complexity and elegance.



Sutherland Estate is committed to producing the highest quality wines of true regional character.



We have two ranges, being the Varietal and the DHV (Daniel s Hill Vineyard) range. The DHV is produced exclusively from the old D block on the estate. Our wines have received immediate acclaim with our first entry into James Halliday's 2005 Wine Companion.



Our cellar door is a relaxing, wonderful place to enjoy a glass of wine and a platter of Yarra Valley cheeses. It was designed and built by ourselves onto the side of Daniel s Hill on the northern side of the property. It enjoys panoramic views across the Yarra Valley to the Dandenong s and Warburton Ranges.



The cellar door is a large, graceful room with an 11m vaulted ceiling, rising to a stunning glass prism. The huge windows take advantage of the Valley s views as does the spacious wooden deck. A large, open fire warms in winter. The cellar door is available for your exclusive, private function.

Things to see and do


* Enjoy the scenic surrounds of Sweeneys Flats with a picnic or your own barbecue

* Walk or jog on the one kilometre mown grass trail around the park

* Take in the views of the lush surrounding bushland as you make your way through the tenha park

* Watch out for possums and owls after dark

* Discover a real Australian billabong. Listen carefully to hear a chorus of noisy local frogs

* View the many native birds that frequent the wetland

* At dusk, keep a sharp eye out for one of the local bat species

* Discover historical hawthorn hedges and other remnants of past land practices

* Organised groups of more than 20 people require a permit from the Park Office. Permits for the busiest period (November to February) will be issued from the 1st of May.


Heritage


Members of the Wurundjeri tribe of Aboriginals originally inhabited the area. The area remains significant to descendants of the Wurundjeri. During the 1840's, the land around Sweeneys Flats was purchased by Thomas Sweeney, a former convict who established an extensive property built by hard work and initiative. The Hawthorn hedge that remains is still a small part of what was once a system of many hedgerows separating the paddocks of the property from one another.


Looking after the park


* Take your rubbish home

* Dogs and other pets are not permitted in the park

* Leave the park as you find

* All native plants and animals are protected

Since the first vintage more than 20 years ago, TarraWarra Estate has established itself as one of Australia's great wine estates, with TarraWarra Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir consistently receiving widespread acclaim and many prestigious Australian and international awards.


TarraWarra Estate is a must-see destination where visitors are invited to reward their senses with the inspired combination of fine wines, delicious food and wonderful Australian art in a magnificent setting.


WineBar Caf & Cellar Door

There is much to experience and enjoy at TarraWarra Estate. On summery days visitors can sit on the terraced hillside and watch the grapes grow as they relax with a glass of wine from the TarraWarra Estate range. By the open fire is a perfect spot in the cooler months when the view is best enjoyed from inside the beautifully positioned WineBar Caf .



Seasonal Lunch - $35 for two courses + a glass of Estate wine. Available Tues - Fri.



The TarraWarra Estate Reserve Wines

The TarraWarra Estate Reserve range of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay represent the vision of Marc and Eva Besen to produce premium wine crafted to bring out the particular aspects of each vintage while consistently concentrating on balancing structure and elegance. These wines are of great character and depth, reflecting the outstanding quality of the 100% estate grown from the unique microclimate of the site chosen specifically for these varieties.



The TarraWarra Estate Wines

The focus of the Estate range is on vibrant fruit and pure varietal character - these wines over-deliver in quality reflecting the serious TarraWarra edge combined with the exciting packaging and value of the Estate brand. The Estate range includes a sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, rose, pinot noir, merlot and shiraz.

The TarraWarra Museum of Art is the first privately funded, significant public visual arts museum to be set up under the Australian Government's philanthropic measures announced in March 1999. TWMA operates as a not-for-profit institution, with a charter to display Australian art from the second half of the twentieth century to the present day.


Eva and Marc Besen had long dreamt of sharing their inexhaustible passion for Australian art with the people of Australia and beyond. In 1999, the first steps were taken to make this dream a reality, with the formulation of a vision for a new museum in the Yarra Valley, with its own collection of Australian art chosen from their private collection that has been lovingly assembled over the last fifty years.


In 2000, an architectural competition was conducted with five of Melbourne's most outstanding architects invited to present design schemes for the museum. Allan Powell's design for this elegant building, arcing gently from the earth in concert with the contours and hues of the landscape, was chosen.


This realisation of Eva and Marc Besen's vision in their gift to the public, provides a retreat from the city and an opportunity to experience three of their enduring passions, Australian modern art, architecture and the beautiful Yarra Valley landscape.


2009 Exhibition Calander


Revisited: Selected works from the TWMA collection (29 March - 2 August, 2009)


Tim Storrier: Light and land (31 May - 16 August, 2009)


BEN QUILTY LIVE! (15 August - 15 November, 2009)


Child like: Selected works from the TWMA collection (21 August - 8 November, 2009)


George Baldessin (21 November, 2009 - 14 March, 2010)

Tea Leaves has two outstanding shops for tea lovers.


You will find our tourism award winning shop in Sassafras, a quaint mountain village in the scenic Dandenong Ranges. Our second shop is in Yarra Glen, a thriving little township in the heart of the Yarra Valley wine growing district.


Both are often described as treasure chests crammed full of teas, teapots and tea accessories of every description and colour imaginable.


Novelty teapots are our specialty.


Tea Leaves offers over 300 teas, imported fresh from China, India, Sri Lanka, Japan, Africa, Indonesia and Australia, then blended and packaged in Sassafras, creating a blizzard of tastes, heavenly aromas and flavours for every occasion. Every tea type imaginable, white, green, black, oolong, organic, decaffeinated, compressed, flavoured teas and fruit blends from Germany, gourmet, classical, specialty and herbal blends.


Owner Terry Abraham opened Tea Leaves in Sassafras, nine years ago, believing tea was beginning a popularity comeback. Revived consumer interest in tea drinking lead to the opening of an internet shop and a second retail shop in Yarra Glen.


Terry is happy to answer any tea related questions from customers and has become an industry leader offering advice and information to all newcomers; some first time tea drinkers, some in the hospitality industry, all discovering tea for the first time.


The key to distinctive tasting, quality tea is its second flush picking time and freshness. The best teas have an established reputation-Darjeeling, for example, is considered the champagne of teas. The range of tea varieties is such to invite comparisons with wine varieties.


Tea drinking generates a refreshing and relaxing feeling and an increasing number of scientific studies are confirming the health benefits of tea drinking.


Tea Leaves offers the largest range of premium quality teas and teawares for the best prices in Melbourne.

The Big Bouquet is a modern, working cut flower farm and alpaca stud located in Healesville in the heart of the Yarra Valley, only an hour from Melbourne. Take the opportunity to visit and look behind the scenes. Learn firsthand about the growing of top quality gerberas and the breeding of alpacas.



A guided tour of The Big Bouquet will take you into the massive three acre glasshouse in which the gerberas are grown and will introduce you to all the aspects involved in producing these stunning cut flowers. The educational display in our visitor centre will lead you through the fascinating science of gerbera propagation and growth. Flowers, plants and seeds are available for purchase. The tour also includes an informative talk on alpacas, as well as an opportunity to take a close look at these friendly creatures. For visitors wanting to enter the alpaca industry there are animals for sale and ongoing support and advice is all part of the after-sale service offered by The Big Bouquet.


All attractions are under cover and in the glasshouse you can enjoy the comfort of a minimum year-round temperature of 18 degrees Celsius. There is full wheelchair access to all attractions.



In the gift shop you will find one of the largest collections of alpaca products available in the Yarra Valley, ranging from raw fleeces right through to luxurious garments made from alpaca fibre blended with silk. The range includes coats, scarves, wraps, jumpers, cardigans, hats, gloves, knitting yarns, blankets, slippers etc. The shop also carries a range of locally produced culinary delights.



The cafe serves light lunches, Devonshire teas, cakes and great coffees. All this accompanied by a friendly chat! For visitors preferring to take their own food, we have picnic facilities available in our park and there is even a playground for the kids.

Open 365 days a year.

With majestic sweeping views of the Valleys finest vineyards, surrounding mountain ranges and stunning skylines and set in the picturesque dress circle of the acclaimed Yarra Valley, Tokar Estate is an ideal location in which to relax, soak up natures beauty, taste some exquisite wines anda sample the most exotic cuisine this side of the Mediterranean.


Leon and Rita Tokar welcome you to their family owned and run Winery and Restaurant created as a result of a passionate vision and dream conceptualized a little over thirteen years ago. They invite you to come and visit them at the Tokar Estate Cellar Door; where you will taste a fabulous range of boutique wines and new vintage releases, then to dine within the inviting atmosphere of their Restaurant; where your taste buds will be assuaged by the magnificent Mediterranean cuisine and your visual senses overwhelmed by spectacular views of the Yarra Valley.Established: 1996


Wine Region: Yarra Valley


Winemaker: Paul EvansOwners: Rita and Leon Tokar


Cellar Door: Open Daily 10.30am - 5.00pm


Restaurant: Lunch 7 days: 12.00pm


Dinner: Saturday evenings from 6.30pmWill open Sunday to Friday evenings for groups of 20 or more: by prior arrangement.


Wines: Standard Range includes: Joie de Vie - Sparkling, Chardonnay, Tempra Rosa, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Tempanillo,Cabernet Sauvignon.


The Premium Range includes: "The Reserve" Syrah, & the "Aria".


Price: $19.00 - $95.00


Food: Restaurant open daily for lunch, serving Mediterranean cuisine, using the freshest Yarra Valley Produce, accompanied by our award winning wines.


Functions: By arrangement.


Up Coming Events



Spanish Night - Saturday 29th August

7 course Degustation Station includes Tokar Estate Wines@ $125.00 per person

Book via email or phone, limited places available.

A night not to be missed!


Fathers Day - Sunday 6th September

Al a Carte menuwith additional Specials for the Dads

Book now to reserve your table and share a wonderful day with your father!

Situated 50km North-East of Melbourne, nestled by the Yarra River, in the heart of the Yarra Valley, our Train Trak vineyard produces premium quality grapes, which reflect the regions' cool climate, rich soil and ideal elevation.


At Train Trak vineyard the first vines were planted in 1995, and nurtured thereafter by the superior viticulture practices of John Evans. All of our award winning wines are produced solely from estate grown hand picked grapes.


The Train Trak Cellar Door and Zonzo's Pizzera opened to the public in early 2007, located in a beautifully renovated dairy shed, the Ristorante can seat 110 + people, and has one of the most spectacular views of the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs.


The property is still a working farm and offers a fantastic, relaxed, rustic atmosphere which combines top class food and premium Yarra Valley wines. Train Trak wines feature Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Rose', Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The carefully maintained gardens and picnic grounds, encompassed by eucalypt bushland and spectacular scenery, makes visiting Upper Yarra Reservoir Park a memorable experience.


Things to see and do


* Follow the beautiful Fern Gully self-guided trail as it loops through tall eucalypt forest with a dense sheltered ferny understorey

* Keep a look out for the abundant wildlife in the area, including rosellas, king parrots and maybe a lyrebird

* See McVeigh's Water Wheel which once drove the generator to supply power to the old McVeigh's Hotel (the site of which now lies beneath the water of the reservoir). It has been restored and is operating in the picnic area

* Enjoy breathtaking views of the reservoir and the surrounding catchment from the Park's two lookout areas

* Take a stroll along the Brimbonga Walking Track to the viewing platform and watch water flow through the reservoir's outlet basin as it begins its journey to Melbourne.

* Camping is also available in the Park, fees apply. Bookings are essential and can be made at the park office or by phoning 13 1963

* Large groups and schools are welcome, however organisers should contact the park office at least two weeks before the visit to arrange a booking. The number of groups are limited to ensure space for casual visitors, so bookings will assist in making your visit more enjoyable for everybody.


Precautions


* There are strict catchment controls to ensure water is protected and water yield is maintained. These controls prohibit public entry to some areas. Campers should comply with signs which indicate areas where entry is not permitted

* Fishing is not permitted in the reservoir or aqueduct

* No entry into the forested catchment areas

Vines Restaurant at Helen's Hill is heaven for the senses: stunning views from the architecturally designed building are the perfect backdrop for the modern, elegant dishes, created from fresh, local Yarra Valley produce.



Nurtured and guided by head chef Stuart Harvey's expert direction, the flavour, aroma and texture of the Australian and international cuisines combine beautifully with wines selected from Helen's Hill and other Yarra Valley vineyards, as well as a couple of international standouts.


Enjoy wandering the beautiful gardens, chill out in our casual BBQ area, or just admire the romantic vineyard view.


Vines Restaurant at Helen's Hill offers a true feast for every sense organ; the perfect spot to replenish your soul.


We cater for all events from a la carte dining, weddings, functions and corporate events.

Located on an excellent site between Yarra Yering and Coldstream Hills, Warramate has been producing premium quality wine at Gruyere for more than 30 years. The wines are now made by David Church who is both a qualified winemaker and GP.


Small quantities of premium quality handcrafted Riesling, Cabernet Merlot, Pinot Noir and Shiraz wines from vines that are now 38 years old.


The Warramate philosophy is to make the highest quality wines from excellent estate fruit in a sustainable manner.


The cellar door is open 7 days.

A visit to Warratina Lavender Farm is a truly unique experience. Only 1 hour's drive from central Melbourne, the Farm is perfectly situated for day or weekend trips to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.





Savour the flavours of local Yarra Valley produce over a glass of regional wine. Why not try our famous Lavender Ice Cream!





With 6 acres of lavender fields, Warratina is a real working lavender farm. Come and take a personalised tour through our 'Drying Shed' where the lavender is processed directly from the field before being transformed into one of the many products in our unique range.


Our Cottage Gift Shop showcases our extensive product range. We stock a wide range of Lavender Plants and can advise you on variety choice.








Fragrance fills the air in spring and summer when the property is ablaze in a sea of purple. At any time of year, you can escape the hectic pace of daily life as you enjoy a stroll through the lavender fields and gardens. Come and breathe the fresh country air and take in the views of distant mountains.


Either as a single interest visit or as part of a regional tour, we can tailor group visits to suit you.


Groups larger than 10 persons should pre-book.

Warrook Cattle Farm is renowned as a premier working farm to which visits can be made.


Located an easy one hours drive Melbourne, on the way to Phillip Island, Warrook is also accessible to the wine regions of the Mornington Peninsular and the Yarra Valley.


Warrook Cattle Farm combines our unique farm experience with our award winning pies and delicious country cooking.


Apart from the sheep and beef cattle operation, guests can also explore our historic homestead, fauna park, gift shop and immaculate gardens.


Also:


* Farm tours

* Historic Homestead

* Sheep Shearing

* Café / Restaurant

* Open 7 days

Nestled in a beautiful bush setting, Watsons Creek Antiques, Cafe and Accommodation is the gateway to the Yarra Valley, a convenient 40 minute drive from Melbourne's CBD.



With a vision to create business conducive to a country lifestyle, John and Joanne Van Eeden purchased this former roadhouse in 1986 and have established a unique family business comprising antique store, cafe and residence.



We welcome you to come and experience:


* the serene atmosphere

* cottage gardens

* unique Australian buildings and bush surrounding

* Wide range of antique furniture, china, home wares

* scrumptious homemade food friendly service

* Roaring open fires in winter.



We offer the astute antique buyer an opportunity to view and purchase a wide range of Victorian and Edwardian furniture, china, crystal, home wares and other antiquities at attractive prices.



The fully licensed cafe offers fine coffee, homemade cakes, Devonshire tea, breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea to visitors in a beautiful setting that contrasts with the atmosphere and surroundings of many city cafes.



Your hosts Joanne and John Van Eeden welcome you to share the exceptional ambience that is Watsons Creek.

Wickedly Delicious Patisserie cafe is fast becoming the latest 'in' place in the Dandenong Ranges. Situated in the Historic Mountain Grande Building at the crossroads of Monbulk-Belgrave Rd and the Olinda-Monbulk Rd, our food truly complements the ambience of these exquisite surrounds.



The ovens are fired up at 1:00am and the 'creation' of our beautiful bread, gourmet cakes, award winning steak pies, delicious biscuits, mouth-watering relishes, chutneys, quince pastes and pates begins! Everything is made on the premises from the best local produce and select ingredients from France and Italy.



The menu includes an array of breakfast delights, tasty lunches, light snacks, wicked treats and coffee to die for. We also cater for those very special occasions with picnic hampers, gift hampers filled with treats, gift certificates, wedding, engagements and specialty cakes, all made to order.



Our monthly high teas, held on the 1st Monday of the month, are quickly becoming the talk of the town. Bookings are essential, but the abundance of savoury and sweet treats is a truly fantastic way to spoil yourself as well as that special someone.

The Wild Cattle Creek Cellar Door is the ideal venue in which to taste and enjoy our wide selection of handcrafted, premium wines. Atmospheric and welcoming, pull up a stool at the bar, relax on the couch by the fire in the cooler months or sit outdoors overlooking the vineyard and landscaped gardens.


Enjoy a tutored, relaxed wine tasting or sip a glass of wine with a delicious selection from the adjoining Rustic Charm Restaurant. The Yarra Valley Platter is a wonderful accompaniment to a glass of Wild Cattle Creek wine.


All Wild Cattle Creek wines are on offer for tasting and sales, and be sure to ask about our great cellar door wine specials when you visit. Current wines include; Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc (medal winner), Chardonnay, Rose, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.


Rustic Charm at Wild Cattle Creek caters for a brief lunch encounter, a lingering, cosy dining occasion, a special event such as a wedding or birthday party or fully catered business function for up to 150 guests. The menu at Rustic Charm caters for an extensive range of tastes, and is ever changing, reflecting the seasons of the produce rich Yarra Valley.


Overlooking Wild Cattle Creek Vineyard and Cellar Door is Wallace Historic Homestead and Merlot Cottage, our superior Bed & Breakfast accommodation. Wild Cattle Creek is also the home of Yarra Valley Preserves and their products are available for purchase at the Cellar Door.

Situated in the Dandenongs in a ferny glade, William Ricketts Sanctuary is a place of beauty and tranquility, due both to the natural setting and the mystical sculptures half hidden among ferns along the pathways. It is a place for quiet reflection and for contemplation of the essence of the vision of William Ricketts. Many travel across the world to visit this place time and time again.


Things to Do


* Kiln-fired clay sculptures of Aboriginal figures are discreetly set among rocks, fern trees and Mountain Ash. These sculptures are an expression of Rickett's philosophy - that all people need to act as custodians of the natural environment in the same way as Aborigines, the inspiration for much of his work.

* Stroll through the gardens and explore the 92 ceramic sculptures of people and animals which merge with the natural surroundings.

* Enjoy the audio-visual display featuring William Ricketts where visitors can see for themselves the vision and passion that live in his art.



Heritage



In the 1930s William Rickets bought a four-acre bush block on Mount Dandenong and called it Potter's Sanctuary. Word spread about the extraordinary sculptures that began to adorn the property. In time, the Victorian Government heard about his work and, in the early 1960s, the land and adjoining blocks were bought for the people. William Ricketts lived on at the Sanctuary into his nineties and continued to create his sculptures until his death in 1993.

Anton, Anna and daughter Sarah welcome you to their boutique vineyard in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges.


Enjoy the spectacular views of the vines surrounded by the Warburton Ranges while you wine and dine, taking a moment to enjoy the ambience and relaxing atmosphere.


Cellar Door is opened with free wine tastings of our hand crafted wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, Pinot Noir, Cabernet/Shiras/Merlot.


With a love of food, menus are created by Anton. Specialising in country comfort meals and allowing for seasonal changes. Antipasto and Ploughmans Platters are available on Thursdays and Fridays with an ever changing menu on weekends.


Catering and functions facilities are available up to 120 guests for:


* Weddings

* Birthday Parties

* Conferencing

* Christmas Functions



All functions and menus are individually personalised, to suit special your event.


Monthly events are now happening with details on our web site.

Please check the Parks Victoria website for current track, road and area closures.


Visit the Parks Victoria website here or

telephone 13 19 63.


In summer months, please call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667 for current information before you travel.


A vital catchment for Melbourne's water supply, Yarra Ranges National Park is home to forests of mountain ash, rainforest and fern gullies, and the endangered Leadbeater's Possum. Stretching from Healesville to Warburton, from the headwaters of the Yarra to Marysville, this national park was declared in 1995.


Things to Do


* The Rainforest Gallery with it's spectacular observation platform and rainforest walkway is on the southern slopes of Mount Donna Buang.

* Take the scenic drive to the summit of Mount Donna Buang. Snow in winter, great views from the twenty-one metre lookout tower all year round.

* Delightful drives along the Acheron Way between Warburton and Marysville, or along the Warburton-Healesville Road.

* See spectacular rainforest at The Beeches Rainforest Walk on Lady Talbot Forest Drive.

* Enjoy cross-country skiing, tobogganing and snow play at Lake Mountain.

* Drive the world famous Black Spur between Healesville and Narbethong and have a picnic and short walk at Fernshaw along the way.

Under an hour from Melbourne, nestled among the infinite shades of blues and greens, lie 55 of the world's leading wineries, and dozens of fine restaurants and romantic retreats. All easy to get to, but impossible to leave.

"In Yarra Glen on the old Yarra Track out to the goldfields of the Central Highlands, this vineyard was established in 1989 and has attracted some well-earned praise for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which can be, respectively, crisp and acidic, and, in the case of the Pinot, earthy, gamey and plummy. Production is set to increase, and this is a label to watch." Stuart Gregor


Established: 1989

Wine Region: Yarra Valley

Winemaker: Martin Williams MW

Owners: Jim and Diana Viggers

Cellar Door: Manager - Diana Viggers

Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Rose'. All wines 100% estate grown.

Price: $20.00-$40.00

Food: Gourmet platters available with wine on weekends & public holidays

Facilities: Restaurant - Indoor & garden setting with magnificent views & picnic facilities.

Enjoy a progressive picnic through the Yarra Valley with these self-drive Cheese and Wine Trails, which are designed to showcase the region's formidable local produce. Choose between three trails, two departing from Healesville and one from Warburton, and all including four stops at some of the region's best wineries. First, collect your picnic hamper from the Healesville Hotel or the Yarra Valley Deli Wine Bar - the hampers contain four local cheeses, crackers, olives and dried fruit, as well as a cheese knife, cheese board and a touring map with tasting notes. Participants then head out on a self drive tour of the cellar doors, where they taste wines specifically matched to their cheeses. The Yarra Valley Cheese and Wine Trail is based on the award-winning McLaren Vale Cheese and Wine Trail, which has been running from the Blessed Cheese café in South Australia for the past four years. Other Victorian regions, including the Mornington Peninsula and Macedon Ranges, are set to join the program in the future.