The best Yarra Valley accommodation for your perfect getaway

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These lush stays are all set against stunning natural landscapes.

Amid the rolling hills and premium vineyards of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, a myriad of accommodations awaits every traveller. From a grand chateau to a cosy loft, boutique winery, funky farmhouse, pet-friendly cottage, or off-grid bush hideaway, we’ve got you covered when it comes to Yarra Valley accommodation.

Winery accommodation

Wineries are an integral part of the Yarra Valley, so what could be more appealing than sleeping amongst the vines?

Soumah

Soumah is renowned for its lively wines and buzzy trattoria specialising in long lunches on the deck, It’s tucked into undulating foothills at the end of a quintessential country lane, a short drive from Healesville. And there are five elegant villas ranging from one to four bedrooms just moments away from the cellar door.

people dining at Soumah with vineyard views
Soumah is a well-loved location for long lunches. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With spectacular vineyard views, chef-inspired kitchens, and outdoor spaces with fireplaces it’s quite possible to spend an entire short break here without leaving the property. Villa Sophia even has a bocce court.

the interior of Soumah, Yarra Valley
Relax in one of the elegant villas that overlook the vineyard.

Best for: Friends, couples, and lovers of Northern Italy wine and food.

Address: 18 Hexham Rd, Gruyere

Balgownie Estate    

After partially being destroyed by fire in 2020, this icon of the valley has surpassed its former glory following a $7 million refurb.

the Balgownie Estate in Yarra Valley
Balgownie Estate boasts chic suites set on a winery.

Sprawling over 30 hectares, Balgownie Estate is an exclusive property a heartbeat away from everything the Yarra Valley has to offer.

the vineyard at the Balgownie Estate in Yarra Valley
The rustic-luxe retreat is sequestered within lush greenery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The generously sized suites boast a fancy yet relaxed vibe and are designed using an earthy palette for guests to unwind and take in the surrounding beauty.

the living room interior of Balgownie Estate
Experience relaxed living in the Yarra Valley countryside.

With an Endota Spa onsite, there’s plenty of pampering on offer, the cellar door has a range of tastings (including a wine and chocolate combo), and Restaurant 1309 serves exquisite meals focusing on local produce all day, every day.

the kitchen and dining at Balgownie Estate in Yarra Valley
Each suite is equipped with a full kitchen.

Best for: Accessible travel, romantic stays, pampering, special occasions

Address: 1309 Melba Hwy, Yarra Glen

Belaradah at Stefani Estate   

When a place is family-owned and run, it adds that special touch of homeliness. Set amongst the vines of a working winery, an olive grove and a pretty orchard, Belaradah at Stefani Estate features two-bedroom, two-bathroom open-plan units that offer scope for up to eight people.

the Stefani Estate Belaradah Road Sign
Stefani Estate is set amongst the vines of a working winery.

Each unit is contemporary in design with picture windows, a well-equipped kitchen, a wood fire and a large deck, perfect for enjoying a glass of fine estate wine. A short drive to Yarra Valley must-dos such as Healesville Sanctuary and TarraWarra Museum of Art, in addition to several wineries and restaurants.

a contemporary unit at Belaradah at Stefani Estate
Contemporary design meets comfort at Belaradah.

Best for: Holidays with friends, small families, couples, pet-friendly

Address: 711 Old Healesville Rd, Healesville

Luxury accommodation

Grandeur meets innovation, rustic meets sleek, luxe in the Yarra Valley is all about a sense of place.

Re’em  

This 16-suite luxurious boutique hotel is the latest addition to the much-loved Helen and Joey Estate winery, and a welcome addition to the Yarra Valley accommodation scene.

a woman standing at the reception of Re’em, Yarra Valley
Re’em is all about a sense of place. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Nestled into 80 hectares of manicured vineyards and gardens Re’em is a destination within itself, but close enough to other attractions of the valley.

a bathtub with views of the vineyard at Re’em, Yarra Valley
Each suite exudes relaxed luxury with a tub to soak in while admiring the view. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Modernistic in style, rooms designed for two people are generous in size, with freestanding tubs in the ensuites, and either a balcony or patio to inhale the spectacular views.

indoor dining overlooking the vines at Re’em, Yarra Valley
Opt for indoor dining overlooking the vines. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Take a seat in a booth at the swish restaurant to feast on an Asian-inspired menu crafted by head chef Abe Yang.

the restaurant at Re’em, Yarra Valley
Dine in style at Re’em. (Image: Hugh Davidson)

Best for: Special occasions, weddings, food lovers, accessibility travel

Address: 12-14 Spring Ln, Gruyere

Chateau Yering    

Dating back to 1854, Chateau Yering is deservedly the grand dame of the Yarra Valley. Set within a rambling country garden, each of the 32 sumptuous suites has a private balcony and is individually decorated with fine antiques, plump cushions, and exquisite artwork creating the feel of being in someone’s home rather than a hotel.

Chateau Yering Yarra Valley
Experience the refined elegance of a stay at the Chateau Yering Hotel.

Eleonore’s Restaurant, in the original dining room, serves a seasonal degustation menu highlighting regional fare, and breakfast for in-house guests is in the pretty conservatory-style Sweetwater Café overlooking the garden. 

a look inside the lavish suite at Chateau Yering
Relax in the elegant drawing room at Chateau Yering. (Image: Visit Victoria)

In prime location (after all it was one of the first buildings in the area), Yarra Glen is moments away and Yering Station, Victoria’s first winery is right next door.

The bedroom of the Yering Suite
Treat yourself to the Yering Suite, a split-level, apartment-size suite.

Best for: Romantic getaways, weddings, corporate gatherings

Address: 42 Melba Hwy, Yering

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AI Prompt

Stones of the Yarra Valley

A slice of Europe without an international air ticket, no ‘stone’ is left unturned here when it comes to atmosphere, pampering and the finest of hospitality.

the Meletos Farmhouse at Stones of the Yarra Valley
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Tuscany when you arrive at Meletos.

Overlooking the vineyards, each of the 22 rooms in the Meletos Farmhouse at Stones of the Yarra Valley is curated with timeless pieces of provincial furniture, artwork and soft furnishings lovingly sourced from around the world.

a room with nature views at Stones of the Yarra Valley
Take in spectacular vineyard views from your window.

On the northern side of the 80-hectare property, a five-bedroom self-contained villa is straight out of a picture book. Stones is only a 10-minute drive from Yarra Glen.

the exterior of the Meletos Farmhouse at Stones of the Yarra Valley
Stay at the Stones of the Yarra Valley for a slice of Europe.

Best for: Romantic getaways, groups of friends, weddings, corporate gatherings, adults only

Address: 14 St Huberts Rd, Coldstream

Holiday cottages

Fancy living like a local? Try one of these cottages.

Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage  

Family-owned for over four generations Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage overlooks the vineyard in one direction and a herd of Black Angus cattle grazing on lush green grass in the other.

the exterior of Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage
Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage is surrounded by lush greenery.

With polished floorboards, a country-style kitchen, two Queen sized bedrooms and a sofa bed in the sunroom, there’s room for up to five guests. Help yourself to produce from the veggie garden, catch the sunrise or sunset on the front or back deck, and enjoy snuggling by the wood fire on cool nights.

the dining space at Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage  
The cottage is equipped with a kitchen and dining area.

The cottage is within walking distance of wineries with restaurants, and a 10-minute drive to Healesville and Healesville Sanctuary.

the outdoor deck at Yarrawalla Vineyard Cottage  
The outdoor deck is a cosy spot for relaxing.

Best for: families (childminding can be arranged), couples travelling together

Address: 13/15 Maddens Ln, Gruyere

Yering Gorge Cottages  

Yering Gorge Cottages are set against the Christmas Hills in a nook where the bush meets the Yarra River, less than a 10-minute drive from Yarra Glen.

kangaroos grazing on the grass outside Yering Gorge Cottages
Meet the resident roos. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The cottages are perfect for self-catering, with eight one-bedrooms, a couple of two-bedders (can be booked adjoining or separately), a three-bedroom villa and one and two designated accessible cottages hidden within a 50-hectare reserve with wombats, echidnas, kangaroos and mega birdlife as neighbours.

the scenic landscape at Yering Gorge Cottages
Yering Gorge Cottages offer views over the valley’s scenic landscape. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Next door to a 27-hole championship golf course designed by Greg Norman also makes it a dream for golfers.

the Eastern Golf Club near Yering Gorge Cottages
The Eastern Golf Club runs alongside the Yarra River. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Best for: Accessible travel, small or large family or friend groups, golf enthusiasts

Address: 215 Victoria Rd, Yering

Bed and breakfast

Who doesn’t love a great B&B? Here are a couple of the Yarra Valley’s best in the biz.

Nissen Hut at Glenlowren

It would be hard to find a more picturesque setting than Nissen Hut a B&B part of the Glenlowren collective, set within a 100-acre working farm.

the Nissen Hut at Glenlowren
Nissen Hut has a distinctive arched roof.

Perched overlooking a small lake, the historic hut is distinctively recognisable in structure but totally transformed into a luxurious two-bedroom (ensuites) with open plan living oozing charm.

the Nissen Hut at Glenlowren on a small lake
The historic hut is tucked away in divine seclusion on the Glenlowran Estate. (Image: Ben Frazer)

Generous farmhouse goodies are provided for a ‘cook your own’ style breakfast. Nissen Hut is less than a 20-minute drive from attractions, wineries, restaurants and cafes.

a look inside the the Nissen Hut at Glenlowren
The accommodation stands out with its curved nterior. (Image: Sarah from Kindred Photography)

Best for: Couples travelling together, romantic getaways, trout fishers,

Address: 281 Bottings Ln, Dixons Creek

The Burrow at Wombat Bend

Set on a bend in a billabong, teeming with birds and native wildlife, The Burrow is a place to embrace nature, soothe the soul and feel inspired. It is hidden from civilisation on Dixon’s Creek, ten minutes from Yarra Glen.

Billabong flight at The Burrow at Wombat Bend
Wildlife lovers get first-class seats to this view with a stay at The Burrow at Wombat Bend. (Image: Sue Forrester)

The mud-brick cottage has a homely vibe with pure linen bedding, a fire pit for toasting marshmallows and a country kitchen for cooking up a storm. Pre-ordered chef cook meals can be organised, the breakfast goodies are generous and picking the garden veggies encouraged.

the interior of The Burrow at Wombat Bend, Yarra Valley
Rustic charm fills the interior of this mud-brick cottage. (Image: John Murray)

Best for: solo travellers, nature lovers, writer’s retreat, sustainable travel

Address: 200 Beachs Ln, Dixons Creek 

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Hotels and retreats

Point of difference is a signature of Yarra Valley accommodation, and hotels and retreats are no exception.

Yarra Valley Grand Hotel

The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel is an iconic National Trust building still going strong since first opening as a pub in 1888. The rooms and suites in the historic part of the hotel are decorated in period style.

the facade of Yarra Valley Grand Hotel
Opt for a classic stay at this historic hotel.

The piece de resistance for a special occasion is the Tower Suite which takes in three levels with a library and access to the top balcony for 360-degree views over the Yarra Valley.

the elegant interior of Yarra Valley Grand Hotel
The hotel is equipped with elegant furnishings.

Meals are hearty pub style with country weekly specials like ‘parma and pot’ and curry night. Separate from the hotel, the four-bedroom manager’s house has a swimming pool, log fire and full-size kitchen.

food and drinks on the table at Yarra Valley Grand Hotel
Dine on hearty pub-style meals.

Best for: couples, friends travelling together, history buffs, celebrations

Address: 19 Bell St Service Rd, Yarra Glen

Kangaroo Ridge Retreat

Shhhhh this is a secret hideaway. Sitting high almost touching the clouds, each of the two self-contained sumptuous cabins at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat comes with jaw-dropping views. Designed in earthy tones using mud-brick and timber, a vacay here is all about chilling out and recharging.

the exterior of Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley
Kangaroo Ridge Retreat is a rustic holiday haven.

There’s an in-retreat wine bar stocked with hand-selected local vintages, gourmet regional fare in the larder and a turntable at the ready to play the collection of vinyl for dancing, or listening to while soaking in the spa bath, or sitting by the log fire. For an added indulgence, arrive by helicopter.

the lounge area at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley
This sleek stay overlooks the rolling hills.

Believe it or not, the accommodation is a short drive from Healesville.

the bed at Kangaroo Ridge Retreat, Yarra Valley
Rooms are designed to promote relaxation and well-being.

Best for:  Solitude, romantic escape, special occasions, adults only

Address: 38 Turners Ln, Healesville

RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort

This mainstay of Yarra Valley accommodation is well-loved by travellers of all ages and stages. Simplistic, yet elegant in design everything you need is right here.

the exterior of RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort, Yarra Valley
The resort is spacious with an elegant aesthetic.

The Michael Clayton-designed 18-hole golf course is a drawcard for golfers, then there’s the floodlit tennis courts, a 25-metre swimming pool, lawn bowls, croquet and bocce. Young kids will love the jumping pillow and adventure playground, and parents the pampering at One Spa.

an indoor pool at RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort, Yarra Valley
Treat yourself to a soothing dip.

Guest rooms are spacious, with views over the mountains, garden or golf course. The elegant Banyalla restaurant showcases regional produce, and the more casual Riddell’s Green is perfect for an up-market family-friendly dining experience.

the dining at Banyalla restaurant, RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort, Yarra Valley
Dine on regional produce at the on-site restaurant.

Best for: golfers, families, couples, friends travelling together, weddings, corporate gatherings, accessible travel

Address: 22 Healesville-Kinglake Rd, Healesville

Caravan Parks, Glamping and camping

The Yarra Valley is overflowing with natural beauty, and under canvas is a great way to connect with the environment. 

Park Lane Holiday Park

This is one seriously creative holiday park. There are cabins that sleep up to eight decked out in various ways like retro, contemporary, wheelchair accessible and studio style. For something quirky, a couple of retired Melbourne W Class trams have been lovingly restored and transformed into a luxe experience for eight with ensuites, a full kitchen and a private hot tub.

the caravan site at Park Lane Holiday Park
The park offers powered and unpowered sites for larger groups.

Glamping pods are for two or a family style, one with an ensuite, and a range of powered and unpowered sites are scattered within nature. There’s a licensed kiosk onsite, as well as two camp kitchens and fire pits, and a paradise for kids with a giant jumping pad, pump track for bikes, recreation room, playground, swimming pool and tennis court.

kids enjoying at the giant jumping pad, Park Lane Holiday Park, Yarra Valley
Kids can play at the giant jumping pad.

Surrounded by bush with Badger Creek running alongside, the park is a five-minute drive to Healesville for the Healesville Sanctuary, shopping, restaurants and cafes.

a family sitting outside a glamping tent at Park Lane Holiday Park, Yarra Valley
You’ll also find stylish glamping tents.

Best for: families, accessible travel, couples,

Address: 419 Don Rd, Healesville

Hipcamp – Yarra Valley vineyard views

The equivalent of Airbnb for camping, Hipcamp, a USA initiative, is starting to make a splash in Australia. The two hectares of grassy level land framed by shady trees and a vineyard has five sites with plenty of space for kids (big and small) to explore. There’s a winery for tastings and food a short walk away, and plenty of hiking trails nearby.

Hipcamp with Yarra Valley vineyard views
Hipcamp lets you stay next to lush vineyards.

Already rated as a verified ‘star host’ Robert H people are discovering this style of accommodation as an enlightening and sustainable way of travelling. Hicamp is hidden from the world, but only a five-minute drive to Lilydale for supermarkets, restaurants and services.

a 4WD at Hipcamp, Yarra Valley
You can set up either your caravan or tent.

Best for: Travellers with a sense of adventure. BYO tent, caravan, camper trailer etc. Totally off-grid with no potable water, power or bathroom facilities. Pet-friendly, families, sustainable tourism

Address: 600 Thonemans Road, Hoddles Creek

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Meet the makers shaping Ballarat’s new era of creativity

    Margaret Barca Margaret Barca
    Makers, bakers, artists, chefs, crafters – Ballarat and its surrounds are overflowing with creative spirits. All dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive for a city that is humming with artful energy.

    Modern makers: a new generation of artists and artisans

    “Keeping craft alive is a noble cause,” says Jess Cameron-Wootten, a charming and passionate master leathercrafter and cordwainer, who handmakes traditional leather boots and shoes in Ballarat’s old Gun Cotton Goods Store.

    Ballarat was recognised in 2019 as a UNESCO Creative City of Craft and Folk Art, and today it’s a place where craft traditions converge with contemporary needs. Nothing quite captures this convergence as a visit to Wootten, the workshop and store of Jess Cameron-Wootten and his partner Krystina Menegazzo.

    heritage buildings in Ballarat
    Ballarat’s streets are lined with heritage buildings. (Image: Matt Dunne)

    Jess’s father was an artisan bootmaker, or cordwainer. Now Jess and Krys and their small team of artisans continue the tradition, but with a modern spin. The company’s boots and shoes, made completely from scratch, are renowned for their quality and longevity. Wootten also craft shoes, bags, belts, leather aprons, wallets and more.

    Cosy beanies, gloves, alpaca socks, “unbreakable” shoelaces and various other goods – many from local craftspeople and small-scale makers – fill the shop’s shelves. “We’re always happy to support a mate,” says Jess. “People love to see the workshop and where things are made. Our clients care about quality and sustainability,” Krys comments. The company slogan ‘Made for generations’ says it all.

    Ruby Pilven’s ceramics at Ross Creek Gallery
    Ruby Pilven’s ceramics at Ross Creek Gallery. (Image: Tara Moore)

    For Ruby Pilven, craft is also in the DNA – both her parents were potters and with her latest porcelain ceramics, Ruby’s young daughter has been helping add colour to the glazes. “I grew up watching my parents in the workshop – I’ve always been doing ceramics,” she says, although her Visual Arts degree was in printmaking. That printmaking training comes through particularly in the rich layering of pattern. Her audacious colour, unexpected shapes and sudden pops of 12-carat gold are contemporary, quirky – and joyful.

    You can see Ruby’s handcrafted ceramics, and work by other local and regional artists, at Ross Creek Gallery, a light-filled space surrounded by serene bushland, across from the mudbrick house her parents built in the 1980s. A 10-minute drive from Ballarat, it’s a tangible link to the region’s well-established craft traditions.

    How Ballarat is preserving the past

    artisans making crafts at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat
    The Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades holds workshops to preserve crafts and skills.

    While tradition is ongoing, there’s a danger that many of these specific type of skills and knowledge are fading as an older generation passes on. Step forward the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

    The seven purpose-built studios occupy a fabulous modern building adjacent to Sovereign Hill, with state-of-the-art facilities, enormous windows and landscape views across to Warrenheip and Wadawurrung Country.

    artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades, Ballarat
    Check out artisanal works at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

    Practising artisans run hands-on workshops. Fancy making your own medieval armour? Or trying your hand at blacksmithing, spinning wool, plaiting leather, weaving cane or craft a knife? Book a class and learn how. “It’s about creating awareness and also sharing knowledge and skills before they are lost,” explains Deborah Klein, the centre manager.

    A city steeped in food and flavours

    Chef José Fernandez preparing American streetfood at Pancho
    Chef José Fernandez creates vibrant South American street food at Pancho. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

    One skill that hasn’t been lost is that of cooking. Ballarat’s burgeoning gastronomy scene runs the gamut from an artisan bakery (the atmospheric 1816 Bakehouse) to cool coffee shops, speakeasy cocktail bars and distilleries to fine-dining venues. But I’m still surprised to find Pancho, José Fernandez’s South American street food restaurant, serving fried cheese tequeños, fiery fish tacos, Argentinian grilled chicken.

    The room is as lively as the food – a whirl of colour filled with gifted and thrifted paintings, photos, tchotchkes (trinkets), plants. There’s a Mexican abuela aesthetic going on here. Even before the music and mezcal kick in, it’s fun. Heads up on the drinks menu – an authentic selection of mezcal, tequila, South American wines and Mexican cerveza.

    a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits, Ballarat
    Enjoy a cocktail at Itinerant Spirits. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

    The spirit is willing, so after lunch we head towards the gold rush-era Ballarat train station and across the line to the old 1860s Goods Shed for Itinerant Spirits. At one end, a massive German copper still looms behind a wall of glass. The fit-out embraces deep olive-green tones, original bluestone walls, steamer trunks as coffee tables, heritage timber floors, oversized lamp shades and cognac-hued modernist leather seating.

    the Itinerant Spirits Distillery & Cocktail Bar, Ballarat
    The distillery operates from an old goods shed. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

    Gallivanter Gin, Vansetter Vodka and Wayfarer Whiskey – the key spirits distilled – star at the bar. The spirits are crafted using grains from the Wimmera Mallee region, and native botanicals foraged in the Grampians. Seasonal cocktails are inspired by local people and places (I loved The Headland, inspired by Sovereign Hill and flavoured with old-fashioned raspberry drops). Sample the spirits, and join a cocktail masterclass or a distillery tour. It’s a seductive setting – you’ll likely find yourself ordering a charcuterie platter or pizza as the evening progresses.

    The Ballarat stay combining history and luxury

    one of the rooms at Hotel Vera, Ballarat
    The rooms at Hotel Vera have a contemporary style. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

    New lives for old buildings keeps history alive. Vera, Ballarat’s boutique five-star hotel, has taken it to the next level: it’s a palimpsest, a subtle layering of early 1900s and 1930s Art Deco architecture with a sleek new wing. There are seven spacious suites, each a dramatically different colour, with designer chairs, blissful bathrooms. High-end pottery and hand-picked artworks imbue the spaces with personality.

    Vera’s intimate, award-winning restaurant, Babae, is subtly theatrical with sheer drapes and gallery lighting, its bespoke timber furniture and brass-edged marble bench setting the stage for food with a sharp regional focus. “We have goat’s cheese from a local supplier, handmade granola from local Vegas & Rose, truffles from nearby Black Cat Truffles, fresh food from our garden, and regional wines,” says joint owner David Cook-Doulton.

    Celebrating the local makers, bakers, growers and producers, and the master chefs who work their magic is all part of the rich tapestry that links Ballarat’s history to its vibrant present.

    A traveller’s checklist

    Getting there

    It’s 90 minutes from Melbourne, either on the Western Freeway, or hop on a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station.

    Staying there

    Hotel Vera is a centrally located Art Deco boutique hotel. Consider Hotel Provincial, which feels like a sleek country house, but with its own restaurant, Lola.

    a contemporary room at Hotel Provincial, Ballarat
    Hotel Provincial has country house vibes.

    Eating there

    dining at Mr Jones, Ballarat
    The table is set at Mr Jones. (Image: Tony Evans/ Visit Victoria)

    Culinary whiz Damien Jones helms Chef’s Hat winner Mr Jones Dining with quiet assurance. His modern Asian food is deceptively simple with deep, intense flavours. Low-key, laid-back ambience, lovely staff, thoughtful wine list.

    Cocktails are definitely a thing in Ballarat. Reynard (fox in French) is foxy indeed, a clubby space with top-notch cocktails and small bites. Grainery Lane is extravagantly OTT with its massive 1880s bar, myriad chandeliers, brass gin still, Asian-inspired food and lavish cocktails.

    dining at Grainery Lane, Ballarat
    Dining at Grainery Lane.

    Playing there

    a laneway filled with artworks in Ballarat
    An artful laneway in the city. (Image: Ballarat Tourism)

    Check out local design legend Travis Price’s wall murals in Hop Lane with its colourful canopy of brollies, or in Main Street. The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s off-site Backspace Gallery showcases early-career artists in a stylish, contemporary space. First Nations-owned and run Perridak Arts connects people to place, bringing together art and crafts in this gallery/shop.

    a woman admiring artworks at Perridak Arts Gallery
    Perridak Arts is a First Nations-run gallery. (Image: Tony Evans)

    The wineries of the Pyrenees are close at hand with their welcoming cellar doors and robust reds. Join a behind-the-scenes tour at the Centre for Gold Rush Collections.

    Dalwhinnie Wines in the Pyrenees
    Dalwhinnie Wines in the Pyrenees.

    Don’t forget the giant bluestone Kryal Castle, ‘the land of adventure’, for a little medieval magic, and not just for the kids: get ready for Highland-style feasting, jousting, even overnight stays.