Warburton

Warburton is located within the Shire of Yarra Ranges and is close to Yarra Junction, Millgrove and Wesburn. Warburton was originally called Yankee Jim's after the nearby creek (named after Jim McAvoy, a Canadian who travelled from the Californian gold rush to try his luck in Victoria in 1859). In 1863 it was renamed after the district police magistrate and gold warden, Charles Warburton Carr.

What can you do in Warburton?

The Waterwheel Visitor Information Centre in the township of Warburton provides tourist information, hosts an art gallery and has a must-see retail outlet called Warburton Valley Handmade that showcases locally handmade goods from artists and craft-workers in the region. Open seven days, visitors can drop in and speak to a volunteer about where to stay and what to do in the Warburton Valley. There are plenty of brochures and maps for the region's stunning array of forest walks and attractions.

The region has much to offer any visitor. Lined with gorgeous trees and numerous parks, the Warburton section of the Yarra Valley is a great destination for families and couples alike. There are many walks to choose from including the Ada Tree Walk, Donna Buang Walking Track and The Warburton Circuit Walk. The 3km Yarra River Walk meanders through the town itself before swinging past a number of river crossings such as Story Reserve’s famous swing bridge.

For those who are interested in a longer walk or ride, Warburton is at one end of the well-known Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, a 38 km track modelled closely on the old railway line. Take this opportunity to see some of Victoria’s most picturesque countryside whether it be via bike, horse or even on foot. There are car parks, picnic and even horse facilities located along the trail to ensure that the adventurous types are able to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Are you looking for scenic views? La La Falls and Mt Donna Buang provide visitors with stunning views in the midst of lush forest. Enjoy walking through the Rainforest Gallery which is a 350 metre long elevated walkway where you will see magnificent 65 metre tall old growth Mountain Ash trees, ancient Myrtle Beech trees, ferns, mosses and other plants that make up this damp and diverse rainforest environment.

There are lots of wonderful boutique shops, places to stop for coffee and lunch and stunning views of the Yarra River. Staying in Warburton is easy with lots of beautiful accommodation options ranging from luxury retreats to pub accommodation and caravan and camping options.