Why we love Healesville & the Yarra Valley
Have you seen this beautiful ‘Tourism Victoria’ advertisement for the Yarra Valley?….
Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is blessed with many of the best aspects of life: easy access from the city, wonderful climate with a true change of seasons, proximity to the snow fields in winter, gentle summers, wonderful cultural life – all on the edge of Australia’s most elegant city – Melbourne!
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NATURE
The tranquil grounds of HEALESVILLE SANCTUARY are a nature lovers delight! Up-close encounters with Australia’s wildlife as you stroll on bushland paths which meander through picnic spots, water courses, information stands, cafes and a gift shop.
Healesville Sanctuary
Go Wild Ballooning - watch the sun rise as you float over the vineyards and valleys.
Melbourne Skydive - for a bigger adrenaline rush try a tandem sky dive over the Yarra Valley.
Maroondah Dam Reserve & Badger’s Brook Park
Both parks are within 5 mins drive of Healesville House. Facilities include picnic tables & free BBQs, walking paths & toilet facilities. See the lyrebirds at Badger’s Brook. Easy parking.
If you like to take longer & more vigorous walks in the local mountain area, contact us directly for information on some great half-day and full day walking paths.
FOOD & WINE
There are numerous options to satisfy your taste-buds. Living is the Yarra Valley is one long “eat-fest” and we are sure you will enjoy the following delights when you have Healesville as your base:
Mac Forbes Wines - boutique and passionate!
Maddens Rise Wines – the funkiest wine cellar decorated with Emma’s flair! Classy wines!
Oakridge Wines – consider a long lunch to compliment their superb wine range.
Train Trak Winery - superb pizzas, relaxing views & great events!
Innocent Bystander / Giant Steps – Breakfast through to late at night – has the lot!
Boat O’Craigo – bright & welcoming with an award winning choice of reds, whites & sparkling.
Tokar Estate – a touch of European chateau in the Yarra Valley. Food – divine! Wine – supreme!
Domaine Chandon – the classy Australian subsidiary of Moet & Chandon!
Toolangi Tavern – drive 15 mins along St Leonard’s Road through the best of Victorian forests to reach the charming Toolangi Tavern. The glow of the open fire, mountain views plus a sumptuous menu choice is a relaxing way to wind down the day.
Rayner’s Stonefruit Orchard - in Woori Yallock – where you will taste fruit like it should taste! A cafe, fruit produce & a tranquil environment but most importantly, fabulous fresh fruit straight from the trees.
Mt Rael - one of the best views of Healesville & the Yarra Valley can be seen from this restaurant.
River Stone Restaurant - follow the signs off Maddens Lane to this wonderful family friendly location – nestled high on the hill with views of the valley. BBQ lunches & dinner on the sheltered verandah mean no meal here need be hurried!
ART
Jewellery, original paintings, sculpture, glass masterpieces, and photography are all here to relish.
Three Stories Artspace & Artists Lounge – Exhibitions, classes & a continual contributor to the arts community of the Yarra Valley.
Acme etal - in the main stress of Yarra Glen. Books, original art, unique childrens’ toys & collectibles.
The Mud Factory - Scandinavian chic! Pottery, linen & cards in fabulous colours. Superb bicycles.
Tarrawarra Museum of Art – click on their link to see the latest exhibitions.
Healesville Glass Blowing Studio – professional & sophisticated works of art and glass jewellery. Elegant personal through to corporate level gifts. A must see.
Di King – renowned artist with a wide range of subject matter.
Silvermist Studio - jewellery designed & created on the premises. Perfect for gifts or a treat for yourself!
Denise Smith - delightful wildlife paintings – so real you will expect the birds & animals to move!
SUMMER 2012
Healesville Racecourse Harvest & Craft Market - 1st Sunday of each month (except Feb 2012)
Yering Farmer’s Market - 3rd Sunday of each month
Rochford Outdoor Cinema - see this link for their movie guide for 2012
PAMPERING
There are a number of day spa and personal pampering options in the Yarra Valley. Body Glow (5962 6110) is in the eastern end Maroondah Highway opposite Innocent Bystander/Giant Steps. Ladies, if you’d like a masseur to visit you, contact Gae at www.massagevalleyranges.com.au or 0407 511 027.