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Experience The Yarra Valley
Under an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is
perfect for a getaway to recharge the batteries and enjoy
breathtaking scenery. There is so much to do in this
beautiful region of Victoria, also known as one of the
worlds great wine growing regions, and famous for its
pinot noir and sparkling champagne.
There are plenty of locals who also flock to this area to
enjoy a weekend away. The blue ranges, massive trees,
rivers and valleys all combine to create an irresistible
escape from the frantic city life. Set aside at least a
minimum of two days here to take in the scenery and enjoy
the countryside. There are pretty towns nestled in the
rolling hills of the valley waiting to be explored, and so
many fine foods and wines to sample.
This is an ideal campervan destination, with so many routes
to take and incredible campsites. Some of the best camping
spots in this region can be found at Kinglake National Park,
Cathedral Ranges State Park and the Yarra Ranges National
Park. The best towns to camp here are Warburton and
Marysville, which are an ideal base to visit the surrounding
attractions.
Follow the Mt Dandenong Tourist Road and you will arrive at
one of the most sought after regions in Victoria, the
Dandenong Ranges. Ideal for a weekend retreat, the majestic
forests, amazing gardens and panoramic views of the Yarra
Valley are the most distinct drawcards for tourists. Home
of the Rhododendron, the gardens go on and on and will lead
you to art galleries and cosy cafés. There is even a local
Puffing Billy which will take you through old villages and
through incredible scenery. There are kilometres of walking
tracks also featuring the Thousand Steps and The Sherbrooke
Forest.
Further down the range is the town of Healesville, which is
known for its extensive Sanctuary wildlife park. It is home
to a myriad of birdlife, and boasts over 200 species of
animals such as the platypus, Tasmanian devil, dingos,
echidnas, koalas, emus and wombats. There is also a
fascinating ‘Birds of Prey’ presentation that will give you
a greater insight into the peregrine falcon and the wedge
tailed eagle. Healesville is also known for its yearly
Grape Grazing Festival and Yarra Valley Tourist Railway.
Another welcoming town is Yarra Glen which is located in the
heart of the Valley and hosts many award winning wineries.
There is plenty to do here, such as walk the eighteen
kilometre Sugarloaf Reservoir Park, relax at the Immerse Spa
and Winery or even enjoy a balloon flight over the valley to
enjoy the sunrise.
Not far away is Marysville. This is a beautiful town also
known as the gateway to Lake Mountain. It comes alive in
every season, especially spring with its picturesque cottage
gardens and oak trees lining the streets, and winter when
the snowfields beckon avid skiers to enjoy the slopes.
Steavenson Falls is a magnificent attraction, known as one
of the highest waterfalls in Victoria. Lady Talbot Drive is
perfect for a picnic lunch surrounded by eucalyptus forest
followed by a rainforest walk. The Cumberland Scenic
Reserve features the tallest tree known in Victoria, known
as ‘The Big Tree’, and the Cora Lynn Falls are also worth a
visit.
Warburton is one of the most attractive towns in the entire
valley. It is also known as a health retreat and welcoming
for all desiring a complete break from the pressures of
life. With forests, rivers, wineries and plenty of
activities and attractions, make sure this is on your list
of places to see.
The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is popular for cycling
or walking enthusiasts, and there is a shorter walk to Lala
falls. The Mt Donna Buang Rainforest Gallery offers a
fantastic treetop skywalk which is a great way for all ages
to see the beautiful rainforest. There is even a night
tour to the Upper Yarra Reservoir Park. There are plenty
of walks which begin close to town and into the Mountain Ash
forests. You will certainly leave here feeling fit and
rejuvenated.
For some it would be enough to enjoy the views of the sun
setting accompanied with a glass of local wine, browsing the
boutiques and enjoying a visit to the wildlife sanctuary.
Others seeking outdoor adventure will love the treetop
skywalk, cross country skiing at Lake Mountain or abundance
of cycling and bushwalking tracks. For whoever is blessed
to visit this abundant region, the outcome is still the
same. They will return home relaxed and more than likely
planning a return trip.
Jenny Brewer 2007
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Katandra Gardens
Set in an amazing 8 acre Australian plant garden, our accommodation offers 4 self contained cottages and a B&B accommodating up to 14 guests.
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