There is so much on offer in the Yarra Valley – wineries, breweries, restaurants as well as places to splurge on cheese and chocolate. And I am so lucky that it is all basically in my backyard.
Now I don’t want to give the impression that I’ve been everywhere there is to go in the Yarra Valley, but this list is more of a collection of places I’ve been to recently and a few that are next on my list to visit. So if you are planning a day trip out to this beautiful place, or if you live somewhat locally and are looking for somewhere new to try then read on. There is really something for every occasion.
Oaks on Melba
31 Melba Hwy, Yering VIC 3770 http://www.oaksonmelba.com.au/
This cute little winery has become a favourite for my friends and I. If you are after a more casual venue then this could be the place for you. On a nice day it’s so relaxing to sit outside on the grass – sometimes even on a picnic blanket – and have some wood fired pizza, scones and wine (yes, that is my usual order). You can even bring your dog along too, but just make sure they are well behaved.
Coombe
673-675 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770 http://coombeyarravalley.com.au/
If you are after something a bit fancier then maybe try Coombe. Once the home of the famous opera singer, Dame Nellie Melba, it’s now a beautiful estate. You can tour the gardens, look through the gallery and eat in the beautiful restaurant. Their ‘Peach Melba’ is delicious and seems to change slightly every so often. I’ve had it a few times and each time it’s been different.
Meletos
12 St Huberts Rd, Coldstream VIC 3770 https://www.meletos.com/
This amazing restaurant is at Stones of the Yarra Valley – a stunning wedding venue. The location is picture perfect and the food is delicious. It’s also the home of Napoleone Brewery so it’s a great place to stop in at for an afternoon and explore. There is even accommodation too, so you can stay in the Farmhouse if you are planning a weekend away.
Innocent Bystander
316-334 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville VIC 3777 https://www.innocentbystander.com.au/
This place has it all. Not only does it have a great restaurant, but you can do wine tastings and stock up on wine in their shop. It’s really ideal to while away some hours on a Sunday afternoon with a bunch of friends. You can share some pizza, a share board or even a paella! Check out my trio of sorbets for dessert below. Moscato, Prosecco and Apple Cider flavoured! Was delish.
Hargreaves Hill Brewery
25 Bell St, Yarra Glen VIC 3775 http://hargreaveshill.com.au/
This is a great little microbrewery. The meals are always great, but it’s really all about the beer. They have some great brews and they make it easy to sample them all with their famous tasting paddle. It’s located in the main street of Yarra Glen, so it’s ideal for a day out and a spot of shopping. I’ve been here a few times now and my meal of choice is usually the gnocchi which is always delicious.
Yarra Valley Chocalaterie
35 Old Healesville Rd, Yarra Glen VIC 3775 https://www.yvci.com.au/
If you love chocolate then this is the place for you. But beware – it is usually busy and for good reason! There is so much to do, you can browse and buy all sorts of chocolate treats from the extensive chocolate shop, as well as watch the chocolatiers at work, or sit down and enjoy some ice cream and desserts. It’s a great place to take kids as there is plenty of space for them to run around. Handy hint: there are huge bowls of chocolate samples so fill up.
Yarra Valley Dairy
70-80 McMeikans Rd, Yering VIC 3770 http://yvd.com.au/
If cheese is more your style, then this place would be heaven for you. There isn’t heaps of places to sit down here – it’s more for tastings and for spending up big on supplies for the coming weeks. It’s very authentic too, the cheese shop is located in the old milk shed, and you really feel like you are on a farm from the moment you park.
Places on my ‘to visit’ list…
Four Pillars Gin
2A Old Lilydale Rd, Healesville VIC 3777 https://www.fourpillarsgin.com.au
This place looks amazing, and I can’t wait to try out their extensive list of gins.
Soumah Wines
18 Hexham Road, (off Skye Road), Gruyere VIC 3770 https://soumah.com.au/
Looks like a beautiful spot to enjoy some wine and good food.
Ezard at Levantine Hill
882, Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC 3770 https://www.levantinehill.com.au/ezard-at-levantine-hill
For something a bit fancier, this looks awesome. Menu looks amazing too.
Cactus Pop 