Yarra Valley
Located less than an hour's drive from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley offers local food, wine, scenery, accommodations, and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Explore the highlights of the region with our Yarra Valley wine tours.
Rich history
The Yarra River, also known as 'Birrarung' to the Indigenous Wurundjeri people, has been significant in the growth and development of Melbourne. The Wurundjeri people have inhabited the lands around the Yarra Valley for thousands of years, with the river serving as a vital source of sustenance. According to their Dreamtime stories, the ancestral creator, Bunjil, formed the river, represented as a wedge-tailed eagle.
Golden Destination
The Victorian gold rush led to extensive mining in the Yarra Valley. This resulted in the creation of landmarks such as the Pound Bend Tunnel in Warrandyte and the Big and Little Peninsula Tunnels above Warburton, which can still be visited today. Measures like widening and dams, including the Upper Yarra Reservoir, have been implemented to prevent significant flooding in Melbourne. The Upper reaches of the Yarra Valley continue to be crucial for Melbourne's fresh water supply, contributing to about 70% of all inflows.
Famous wines
The Yarra Valley is Victoria's oldest wine-growing district, with a history dating back almost 180 years. The first vines were planted in 1838 by the Ryrie brothers in what is now Chateau Yering. Viticulture expanded quickly in the 1860s and 1870s, led by early settlers like the de Castella and de Pury families. They were exporting local wines and winning awards globally. However, in 1921, wine production ceased due to the high demand for fortified wine. Replanting started in the late 1960s, and by the early 1990s, the vineyard acreage had significantly increased.
The Yarra Valley is now renowned as a top cold climate wine region, featuring well-known wineries such as Domaine Chandon, St Huberts, De Bortoli, Yering Station, Oakridge, and Coldstream Hills.
By the turn of the 20th century, the region was connected to the city by rail. It became a popular destination for holidaymakers seeking to escape the city.
Alcohol producers
The Yarra Valley was a significant area for hops farming in the 1800s, and today, it is home to successful craft breweries and distilleries. Visitors can easily find a local microbrewery offering delicious food and drinks.
There, The market has a presence of new-generation gins, rums, vodkas, and whiskeys. In the Pillars, Distillery is a standout, consistently recognized by the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London as the World's Best Gin.
Various tastings and masterclasses occur regularly in the area.
Agriculture
The region is known for its agricultural berry, fruit production, and excellent climate wines. It is considered Victoria's top food and wine tourism destination due to its natural beauty and proximity to the Great Dividing Range.
Amazing food
The Yarra Valley is known for its exceptional drink and produce, leading to an ever-evolving offering of award-winning restaurants and dining experiences that attract culinary tourists. The region is regularly recognized as one of Victoria's favourite regional dining destinations.
The area is known for its abundance of fresh specialty producers, including cheesemakers and chocolatiers.
The Yarra Valley offers a variety of dining options, catering to different tastes and preferences for visitors and locals. From fine dining to casual cafes and pubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the area.