Yarra Valley (optional)

Yarra Valley (Yarra Glen / Coldstream / Healesville)

Sparkling wine and a long lunch among the vines

⚠ Check winery bookings

Hours

Varies by winery (mostly daytime); check before going

Tickets

Tasting fees and tour prices vary by operator (check on site)

Address

Vineyard country north-east of Melbourne, with wineries scattered around Yarra Glen, Coldstream and Healesville

An hour out of the city the hills turn into rows of vines. The cool climate makes it known for pinot noir and sparkling wine, and the day goes like this: a tasting flight on one winery terrace, then a long lunch overlooking the vineyard at the next. At dawn, hot-air balloons drift over the vines, and Healesville Sanctuary has platypus and koalas. If your schedule's tight it's the easiest day to drop, hence 'optional'.