Yarra Valley
Melbourne's Cool-Climate Wine Country
On the lands of the Wurundjeri people.
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
An hour's drive east of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley is Victoria's oldest wine region and the closest to a major city in the country. Cool-climate Pinot Noir and sparkling are the regional specialties.
The Yarra Valley was first planted to vines in 1838, making it the oldest wine region in Victoria. The original plantings were abandoned in the early 20th century when phylloxera and changing tastes pushed production north, but the region was replanted from the 1960s onwards and is now known for some of the finest cool-climate wines in the country. Domaine Chandon, the Australian arm of Moet et Chandon, opened here in 1987 and put the region on the international map.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and sparkling wines are the regional strengths. There are around 80 cellar doors, plus a strong food scene built on local cheeses, berries, and produce. The Healesville Sanctuary native wildlife park is one of the best of its kind in the country and a sensible stop on any wine country day.
The valley is genuinely a one-hour day trip from Melbourne, but rewards an overnight or two. Hot air balloon flights at dawn over the vines are a popular regional experience.
Tourist locations
Places to visit in Yarra Valley.
6 locations to explore
Chandon Australia
Sparkling wine at its source
$22 per person for guided tasting (five sparkling styles)
Full guide arrow_forwardFour Pillars Gin Distillery
Award-winning craft gin
Free entry; tasting experiences from $50 per person
Full guide arrow_forwardHealesville Sanctuary
Australia's native wildlife up close
$57 adult, $28.50 child (4-15); children under 16 free on weekends and Victorian school holidays
Full guide arrow_forwardTarraWarra Museum of Art
Contemporary art in wine country
$18 adult, $12 concession; children under 12 free
Full guide arrow_forwardThe Chocolateries - Yarra Valley
Handmade chocolate and gelato
Free entry; purchases priced individually
Full guide arrow_forwardYering Station
Victoria's first vineyard, still pouring
Free entry to cellar door; tastings complimentary with purchase
Full guide arrow_forwardWhere to stay
Holiday parks near Yarra Valley.
1 option via our booking partner
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Things to do
Recommended Experiences
6 bookable experiences at or near Yarra Valley.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Yarra Valley.
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Attribution
Sources & credits
Content (1)
Images (1)
- Yarra Valley Grammar north sporting field.jpg · Dr.Editorias · CC BY-SA 4.0
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