Yarra Valley | Redwoods, Wildlife, Wine, Chocolate

Planning a day trip from Melbourne that combines scenery, good food, and a touch of adventure? This Yarra Valley tour seems to tick all those boxes—and more. From the moment you start your day at Queen Victoria Market, you’re set for a well-rounded experience that covers some of Victoria’s most beloved sights.

What really draws us in are the chance to sample top-tier wines at historic vineyards and the walk among 1,500 Californian Redwoods, which promises a surreal forest experience. Plus, who wouldn’t love a sweet stop at the local chocolate factory? On the flip side, a potential consideration is the tour’s walking component, which might be less suitable if you’re not keen on a bit of physical activity.

Overall, if you appreciate a mix of nature, wildlife, and culinary delights, this tour seems ideal. It’s particularly good for those who want a structured day that hits multiple highlights without the stress of planning each stop themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: Combines wine tasting, wildlife viewing, forest walks, and chocolate indulgence in one day.
• Scenic highlights: Expect stunning views, especially among the Redwoods and over the Yarra Valley.
• Small group: Limited to 10 people, which makes for more personal interaction and flexibility.
• Flexible planning: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options add peace of mind.
• Physical activity: Includes walking through rainforests and sanctuaries, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Ideal for varied interests: Perfect for those who want a bit of everything—from wildlife to wine and towering trees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off right in Melbourne at Market Lane Coffee at Queen Victoria Market, a lively spot that’s easy to find. The meeting point is straightforward, and from there, the journey begins with a relaxed 70-minute coach ride into the Yarra Valley.

This setup is convenient for city-based travelers, avoiding the hassle of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions or spontaneous stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Your first stop after the drive is the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, where you get a chance for some great photos and free time to browse the shop. The highlight? Tasting some of the delicious chocolates and ice creams. This is a real treat and a good way to start the day with something sweet. In reviews, visitors say, “The chocolate was absolutely divine, and the shop is charming.”

This stop is perfect for anyone who loves dessert or wants a break from wine tasting. You’ll find a variety of artisan treats here, making it an ideal spot to pick up a little souvenir or just indulge.

Yering Station Winery

Next up is Yering Station, Victoria’s first vineyard, with a history dating back over 150 years. The guided wine tasting here offers a taste of some of the region’s best wines, with the opportunity to learn about local viticulture. The setting is picturesque, and the wines are said to be high quality, making this a highlight for wine lovers.

What we appreciated in reviews is how the guide explains the region’s winemaking history, adding context to the tasting. It’s a sophisticated stop that balances education with enjoyment. Plus, the vineyard’s scenic views make the experience even more memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Healesville Sanctuary

This part of the tour is a bit longer—about 2 hours and 45 minutes—and offers a chance to see native Australian wildlife up close. You can expect to see koalas, kangaroos, and a variety of native birds in a bushland setting designed to mimic their natural habitat.

Visitors often mention how the sanctuary provides a relaxed environment to observe animals and learn about conservation efforts. You’ll need to purchase your own lunch here, so plan accordingly, but there’s plenty of food options available.

Redwood Forest at Cement Creek

The final nature highlight is the Redwoods forest in Warburton. Walking among trees that reach 55 meters in height is a genuinely awe-inspiring experience. The forest walk is about 45 minutes, and it’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

The views here are consistently praised. One reviewer said, “The Redwoods are simply breathtaking, and the walk through the forest feels almost otherworldly.” It’s a quiet, beautiful spot that caps off the tour nicely.

Transportation and Timing

The tour uses a coach, with the entire day spanning about 9 hours. The driving times between stops are reasonable, giving you enough time at each location without feeling rushed. The group is limited to 10 participants, which enhances the experience by allowing for more personalized attention and flexibility.

The return journey takes about 1.5 hours, bringing you back to Queen Victoria Market by late afternoon or early evening. This makes it convenient if you want to keep exploring Melbourne afterward.

The Experience: What’s Valuable

The variety of activities is what makes this tour stand out. You’ll get your dose of wine and chocolate—two classic indulgences—and the natural beauty of the Redwoods and wildlife sanctuary. The stops are well spaced, allowing for both relaxation and engagement.

The small group size makes a difference; it fosters a friendly atmosphere, and your guide can tailor the experience somewhat based on your interests. The stories and explanations provided about the region add depth, making the day more than just a sightseeing trip.

The scenic highlights are truly stunning. The Redwoods forest, in particular, seems to impress nearly everyone, with its towering trees offering that “wow” factor. The Yarra Valley’s rolling vineyards and lush landscapes also make for continuous beautiful views.

Practical considerations include bringing comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing, especially since weather can vary. The tour’s inclusive setup—like flexible cancellation and pay later options—adds peace of mind.

On the downside, the tour involves some walking, which might not suit everyone, especially if you have mobility issues. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for a meal at Healesville Sanctuary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day that combines nature, wildlife, and culinary delights without the hassle of planning multiple activities themselves. It’s ideal for small groups seeking a more intimate and flexible environment. People who love scenic drives and beautiful landscapes will find plenty to enjoy, especially the Redwoods.

It’s less appropriate for those with mobility concerns or young children who might find long walks or multiple stops challenging. Also, if you’re not a fan of walking or prefer a more relaxed, seated experience, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking a comprehensive taste of the Yarra Valley—from its iconic vineyards and native wildlife to its stunning forests—this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to do it. The mix of experiences keeps the day lively, and the views, especially in the Redwoods, are genuinely memorable. The small group setting and flexible booking options make it a smart choice for travelers who want a personal, hassle-free adventure.

While the physical activity might be a consideration, the scenic beauty and variety of stops tend to outweigh that for most travelers. Whether you’re into wine, wildlife, or simply love wandering among towering trees, this tour covers all bases.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, guests need to purchase their own lunch at Healesville Sanctuary, where there are multiple options available.

How long is the drive between stops?
The driving times are about 70 minutes from Melbourne to the first stop, then shorter hops between each attraction, with the last return journey taking around 1.5 hours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for children, the walk through the rainforest and sanctuary might appeal to older kids, but younger children or those with mobility issues may find the walking challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour involves walking, so dress accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this tour good for wine enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The guided tasting at Yering Station is a highlight, especially if you appreciate learning about local wines and their history.

In summary, this Yarra Valley tour offers a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, and culinary delights, wrapped up in a manageable, small-group experience. It’s great for those who want to see a lot without the stress of organizing each part themselves—and the views, especially among the Redwoods, are likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: