Gardens, Picnics & Playgrounds

Nature takes centre stage throughout the region. Take the time to be in the outdoors and feel the difference. Explore the magnificent private gardens open to the public such as Alowyn Gardens or the memorable Coombe – The Melba Estate, the former home to world famous opera singer Dame Nellie Melba. Picnics can be the ultimate in a family day out or an intimate day for two to reconnect and wash the worries of the week away. Wander the grounds of Maroondah Dam park and enjoy the roses, rest in an historic rotunda or find yourself on a rug under the branches of a magnificent sprawling tree. Fresh air, stunning views, amazing wildlife and spectacular gardens all make for an entirely wonderful adventure.

Alowyn Gardens

Alowyn Gardens provides an informative and educational experience for anyone interested not only in gardening, but also the enjoyment of a beautiful garden. It has been designed with shade and comfort in mind.

Situated on over 11 acres of landscaped gardens, with an indoor and outdoor eatery overlooking our pool area, the centre offers world class facilities ideal for all members of your family.

Just one hour from Melbourne, in the Dandenong Ranges, Australian Rainbow Trout Farm offers the thrill of catching fish, with out all the hassle. With Rainbow Trout, Atlantic Salmon, Various size trout ponds, Lake for Fly Fishing or a more challenging experience, Gas BBQs (Cook up your fresh catch right there and then!) Kiosk, Shaded Areas, Mini Golf, Playground, Picnic Area, Disabled Access with Assistance, Car Park and Free Cleaning of your fish you’re in for an action packed, fun filled day!

An interesting man made formation created in the 1860's that has diverted the Yarra River flow and is now a popular picnic, walk and swimming spot.

A unique 14 acre display water garden of Lotus and Waterlilles. It can take 1-1.5 hours to walk the garden however most groups usually spend 2-3 hours enjoying the garden.

A great fun day out for the whole family. Be thrilled by hooking onto a Rainbow Trout or Atlantic Salmon in our picturesque bush setting.

The Cathedral Range is a spectacular seven kilometre ridge of sharply upturned sedimentary rock between Taggerty and Buxton.

Chateau Yering Yarra Valley. Open 7 days for café breakfast, café lunch and restaurant dinner (all welcome). It is also a stunning event venue. The social center of the Yarra Valley.

Since 1940, the Riseborough family have been growing and exporting cherries all over the world. Now we are open to the public and you can purchase our famous cherries, or pack a picnic and enjoy the views while you pick your own BIG sweet cherries on over 85 acres of our picturesque cherry orchard.

Once the home of Dame Nellie Melba, this is a property with an unrivalled provenance. Seven acres of stunning gardens, beautifully appointed facilities in the restored motor house and clock tower. A truly unique gourmet and cultural experience.

Currawong Bush Park is filled with stories to tell. It gives you the opportunity to have a 'wilderness-like' experience close to home.

De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate is where the family philosophy of great wine, food and friends has come together in a magnificent setting only one hours drive from Melbourne.

Located at the top of the Dee Road in Millgrove, alongside the O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail, is a small picnic area with a beautiful view of the valley.

Established by French Champagne house Moët & Chandon in 1986, Domaine Chandon specialises in distinctive and delicious méthode traditionnelle Australian sparkling wines.

Edendale is a community farm in Eltham filled with fun and informative activities you can do all year round.

With its mix of bushland environment, more formal park facilities and sporting grounds, Eltham Lower Park has proved very popular within the community and with visitors.

Ignite your imagination at the all abilities Wombat Bend playspace. Enjoy community art and sculptures, sensory play activities, an amphitheatre and a native forest walk.

Greenstone Cellar Door invites you to relax with friends and family. Enjoy a glass of wine on the deck while taking in the best panoramic views in the valley. Try wines from Yarra Valley and Heathcote vineyards. Live music from 1 pm to 4 pm most Sundays and now also conducts tour of the winery.

The Healesville Outdoor Pool is located in beautiful Queens Park in Healesville. This seasonal aquatic facilities operates from December to March.

"Explore a bushland haven for Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, just one hour from Melbourne in the stunning Yarra Valley."

Gardens, Picnics & Playgrounds

Alowyn Gardens

Aquarena Aquatic and Leisure Centre

Australian Rainbow Trout Farm

Big Peninsula Tunnel

Blue Lotus Water Garden

Buxton Trout & Salmon Farm

Cathedral Range State Park

Chateau Yering Hotel

Cherryhill Orchards

Coombe Yarra Valley

Currawong Bush Park

De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate

Dee Road Picnic Area

Domaine Chandon

Edendale Community Environment Farm

Eltham Lower Park

Finns Reserve

Greenstone Vineyards

Healesville Outdoor Pool

Healesville Sanctuary

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