Why we love Healesville & the Yarra Valley

Have you seen this beautiful ‘Tourism Victoria’ advertisement for the Yarra Valley?….
Yarra Valley

The first golden leaves of autumn are starting to appear on the trees as you drive into Healesville.  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!

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 – new holiday delights – “Land of Parrots”.  Make the sanctuary a must-see during your Yarra Valley visit.
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.

ART & MUSIC
Jewellery, original paintings, sculpture, glass masterpieces, and photography are all here to relish.  Many communities have their own music festivals and ongoing programmes.”
Gayle Burgess – original art-you-can-wear!  Classy designs by Gayle – from the textiles to the final product.
Acme etal - What happens when you give a bunch of 5-12 years an old point-&-shoot film camera & tell them to make photos?….  This delightful exhibition is now open until 3rd June  ….   inspiration for photo buffs of any age!
Crumbz – designer aprons, haberdashery, funky fabrics, wool & accessories, unique gifts.  Also ask Kay about classes in sewing, crochet & knitting.  Machines available to hire at the shop for your own work.
Rochford Winery – In addition to great wine & food, check out the forthcoming concerts & events at Rochford.
Three Stories Artspace & Artists Lounge – Exhibitions, classes & a continual contributor to the arts community of the Yarra Valley.

The Mud Factory - Scandinavian chic!  Pottery, linen & cards in fabulous colours.  Superb bicycles to buy or hire.
Tarrawarra Museum of Art – click on their link to see the latest exhibitions.  The current exhibition of works from their permanent collection is very inspiring.  Up close with masterpieces!
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!

Around the Yarra Valley, also consider:
Montrose Concert Series –  a monthly performance by the best of Melbourne musicians, singers & comedians.
Films in Warburton – don’t miss any of this year’s films!  The next is Aussie film “Oyster Farmer” on Tues 12th June 2012 at 7.30pm.
Yarra Ranges Regional Museum –  recently renovated and worth a good chunk of your time.

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:
Wild Wombat Winery Tours – locally owned + expert knowledge =  personal service!
Mac Forbes Wines - boutique and passionate!
Essenza –  the hippest cafe in Healesville.  Coffee offianados! Great food too.
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 - great wines and stay for a meal at Zonzo Restaurant & enjoy superb Italian cuisine and relaxing views.  Also great for private 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.
River Stone Wines – the most relaxing view of the Yarra Valley and ranges.  Easy atmosphere with good pub-style food.  Check their live music line up.
Tokar Estate – a touch of European chateau in the Yarra Valley.  Food – divine!  Wine – supreme!
Domaine Chandon – the classy Australian subsidiary of Moet & Chandon! Bubbles anyone?
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. The take-home fruit pies are heavenly.
Mt Rael - one of the best views of Healesville & the Yarra Valley can be seen from this restaurant.

AUTUMN 2012
Healesville Racecourse Harvest & Craft Market – 1st Sunday of each month.
Yering Farmer’s Market – 3rd Sunday of each month

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.

Transport Required? Contact Yarra Valley Transfers for a shuttle service to and from Melbourne Airport. For private chauffering around Healesville and the Yarra Valley contact Driven Indulgence.