Located just under an hour from Melbourne and right in the centre of the Yarra Valley food and wine district, Healesville has an abundance if indoor and outdoor activities and is also home to some of the region’s most talented artists. Visit some of the town’s galleries and studios, or partake in a leisurely lunch at one of the al fresco cafes and popular pubs. Once you are finished you can explore the boutique shops, and stock up on fresh regional produce from the huge range of local growers and suppliers. If you’re feeling a little more active there are a range of walks, parks and the famous Healesville Sanctuary to visit.
Healesville Sanctuary
Interact with Australia’s native wildlife at one of Victoria’s premier attractions. Experience the wonder of birds of prey and parrots during the ‘Spirits of the Sky’ presentations, or get up close and personal with many of the animals as part of the ‘Magic Moments’ offering. Open daily 9am-5pm. Badger Creek Road, Healesville
Walks
Some of the more popular walks in the area include the Maroondah Reservoir Park Walk and the Badger Weir Picnic Area Walk. A range of short to medium walks are available, including the ascent to the 41m dam wall. BBQs, picnic tables, playground and toilets available. Offering a range of vantage points and the prospect of viewing wild lyrebirds be sure to pack your active wear! Length: 800m to 2.8km Grade: Easy to Moderate
Markets held each weekend
Explore the three markets held each month in Healesville. Stock up on organic produce every Saturday morning between 9am-1pm at Coronation Park (behind Coles), or enjoy the wide range of options at the community markets held at River Street (first Sunday) or Coronation Park (third Sunday).
Sample local wines & beer
Find yourself lost among the vines of over 100 wineries offering stunning cool climate wines such as chardonnay and pinot noir to name but two. The cellar doors of the region’s famous wineries are open every weekend, and the winery restaurants are becoming some of the most sought-after dining destinations out of Melbourne. With so many to choose from perhaps start with the official visitor site of the Yarra Valley
Exhibitions at TarraWarra Museum of Art
Host of the Archibald Prize in 2011 and 2012, TarraWarra Museum of Art (TWMA) is the only privately funded public arts museum in the region. It displays Australian art from the second half of the twentieth century to the present day. A visit to the region is not complete without a look at TWMA’s ever-changing exhibitions. 311 Healesville-Yarra Glen Road, Healesville
