The 10 Best Free Things to do in Yarra Valley, Victoria

Located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, this award-winning, fully landscaped regional playground boasts a huge variety of activities for all ages. Locals love it, but it is also a favourite for families from all over Melbourne who've heard about just one of Yarra Glen's great assets. Adjacent to the skate park, it has good shade, public toilets, picnic facilities and barbecues available. *This playground is accessible for all abilities.

Yileena Park is a family owned Cellar Door, Winery and Vineyard located in the beautiful Yarra Valley just one hour drive north east of Melbourne. The vinyard was established in 1998 and comprises 5 acres of Pinot Noir, 5 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon and 2.5 acres of Merlot. It is situated on a north facing slope at the base of the Christmas Hills which keep it cool and protected. And the grey loam soil surfaced over a rock studded clay base make it ideal for growing premium wine grapes. The vineyard is pruned to produce between 1-2 tones of fruit per acre which allows the vines the opportunity to completely ripen the fruit. Our watering system is an American Sub-surface drip irrigation type, which delivers the water and organic liquid fertilizer directly to the vine’s roots. It allows for excellent control over our watering which we judiciously monitor. The unique sandstone cellar door at Yileena Park was opened in 2006. It is anchored back into a steep hill to ensure cool cellaring of our premium wines as the ground floor is virtually buried underground. Climb the superbly timber panelled stair case to the warmly inviting tasting room which is swathed in Tasmanian Myrtle and features and open fire place, an ornate Victorian mantle and a beautifully detailed granite bar. French doors open onto an expansive deck affording views over the vineyard and the beautiful Yarra Valley. The deck is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine with a pre-ordered cheese platter. When you visit Cellar Door you must also sample our unique smoked delicacies. These are infused with the smoke from old wine barrels and the combination of wine and oak flavours imparts an amazing flavour that needs to be tasted to be believed. Our smoked products are only available at Cellar Door and include smoked salt, olives, nuts, mustard, olive oil, red wine vinegar and cheeses. With such close proximity to Melbourne this stunning Celar Door, Winery and Vineyard is so accessible. We look forward to seeing you when you are next in the Yarra Valley.

Kinglake National Park lies on the slopes of the Great Dividing Range, a short drive from Melbourne. Keep an eye out for native birds as you enjoy scenic walks, thrilling mountain bike trails and picnics against the backdrop of panoramic views. Go mountain biking on the diverse and technical downhill trail at Bowden Spur or drive up to Mount Sugarloaf for panoramas over Melbourne’s skyline. Enjoy a picnic or barbecue in the surrounds of tall eucalypts before embarking on a short walk to Masons Falls. See water cascading over the sheer mudstone walls, which are fossilised sea beds. The Gums Camping area is nestled among tall eucalyptus forest and by a tranquil mountain stream. Camp or bring your caravan or camper for a comfortable stay.

Less than an hour's drive from Melbourne, the De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate is a vibrant, family friendly winery, overlooking the valley's rolling hills. Enjoy the views and warm hospitality while sharing good wine, good food and good times with family and friends. Taste wines from the De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate, as well as wines from their King Valley, Heathcote, and Bilbul Estates. With the current restrictions due to Covid-19, our restaurant has re-opened as Locale Cafe, where we are offering a new-style cafe menu for you to enjoy. Our cafe is open Thurs - Mon 10am - 3pm. Our Cellar Door is open from 10am - 4.30pm for cellar door tastings by appointment.

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is an iconic 39 km recreation trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The trail follows the path of the historical railway line through the stunning Yarra Valley commencing at the rear of the Lilydale Railway Station and finishing in the Warburton township.Follow the 'Warburton Trail' through vineyards, beautiful mountain scenery, farmlands and forests. Cross the many restored bridges. Meander past remnants of the former station platforms and stop in at the original 1882 railway station, also known as the Upper Yarra Museum.The Rail Trail's gentle gradients make it ideal for all levels of fitness including families. Access to the trail is free for the public, however permits may be required for events.

Lillydale Lake is open at all times and has a range of facilities and activities to suit everyone, including an all-abilities playground, outdoor fitness station, walking tracks, wetlands, fishing jetties, BBQ's, picnic shelters, sandy beach areas and public toilets. Come along and have a picnic or barbecue, take a walk around the 28 hectare lake, or watch your children enjoy the sandy beaches and expansive lawns. Entry is free.