Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley day trip

Just one hour’s drive from Melbourne lies a place that feels worlds away — the Yarra Valley, where gentle hills, sunlit vineyards, and gourmet flavours come together in perfect harmony.

It’s the kind of destination that instantly slows you down: rows of vines stretching into the distance, a glass of sparkling wine in hand, and the soft hum of nature in the background. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply craving a peaceful escape from the city, the Yarra Valley delivers an experience that’s both elegant and down-to-earth.

In this guide, I’ll take you through a one-day itinerary that combines some of the region’s finest wineries, stunning views, and local produce — all easily enjoyed without rushing. From the sophistication of Domaine Chandon to the timeless charm of Yering Station, and the contemporary touch of Oakridge Wines, this day trip captures the essence of Victoria’s wine country in its purest form.

So, fasten your seatbelt, set your GPS to Coldstream, and get ready for a day filled with taste, landscape, and that unmistakable Yarra Valley magic.

🍇 Day Trip to the Yarra Valley (from Melbourne)

Duration: Full day (approx. 9:00 am – 6:30 pm)
Distance: 90 -100 km from Melbourne CBD (200 km return approx.)

🚗 Morning – Scenic Drive & Coffee Stop

Depart Melbourne around 9:00 am.
Take the Eastern Freeway (M3) toward Healesville. The drive itself is beautiful, with winding roads and green landscapes appearing as soon as you leave the suburbs.

Optional coffee stop:

• Yarra Glen Bakehouse (Yarra Glen) my favourite – Great local spot for coffee and pastries before visiting the wineries.
  Location on Maps

• Yarra Valley Dairy – A small cheese shop and café on McMeikans Lane; perfect to pair with your first tastings.
  Location on Maps

🍷 Late Morning – First Winery Visit (Elegant & Classic)

1️⃣ Domaine Chandon
📍 727 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream - Location on Maps

• Owned by Moët & Chandon, this is the Yarra Valley’s sparkling wine heaven.
  
  

• Enjoy a guided tasting or relax with a glass of sparkling on their terrace overlooking the vines.
  
  

• Tip: Don’t miss their Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling — it’s world-class.
  
  

⏰ Recommended time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

🧀 Lunch – With a View

After Chandon, head about 15 minutes to your lunch spot:

2️⃣ Yering Station
📍 38 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen - Location on Maps

• One of Victoria’s oldest wineries (established in 1838), combining heritage architecture with stunning views.
  
  

• Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the Wine Bar Restaurant, with seasonal dishes paired with their signature Pinot Noir or Chardonnay.
  
  

• The cellar door also offers free tastings of select wines.
  
  

⏰ Recommended time: 12:15 pm – 2:00 pm

🍇 Afternoon – Boutique & Relaxed Winery

3️⃣ Oakridge Wines
📍 864 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream - Location on Maps

• A modern, sustainable winery known for elegant cool-climate wines and award-winning architecture.
  
  

• The tasting room offers panoramic views of the valley and Mount Dandenong ranges.
  
  

• Ideal for families too — relaxed atmosphere and great photo opportunities.
  
  

⏰ Recommended time: 2:15 pm – 3:30 pm

🛍️ Optional Stop – Local Produce & Chocolate

If time allows before heading back:

• Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery 🍫 (Old Healesville Road, Yarra Glen)
  Free tastings, kids’ activities, and a beautiful shop filled with handmade chocolate.
  Location on Maps

⏰ Stop: 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm

🌄 Evening – Return to Melbourne

Leave around 4:30–5:00 pm and enjoy the sunset (depending on season) as you drive back to the city, arriving around 6:30 pm.

WHOLE route with first stop for a coffee is shown by clicking on THIS LINK

Just Wineries can be seen on THIS LINK and we go straight to our first glass