Mount Donna Buang

Mount Donna Buang is just nine kilometres from Warburton, making it Melbourne’s closest regular snowfield. It has a toboggan slide with rental facility, with access to barbeques and walks on the mountain. Keep it in mind around the Winter months (June to August).

Marysville

The township of Marysville is just north-east of Healesville. This wonderful little spot was devastated in the fires of 2009, but showing amazing spirit, the township has completely renewed itself through strong community support. It has plenty of accommodation, a fantastic bakery and lots to do, including walks, markets and even a trout farm. To stop off at Marysville and support the township and its people would be a good deed in itself - so please do it!

Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges are just south of the Yarra Valley, and just as easily accessible from Melbourne. Drive through the towering trees and fern gullies of the mountains, visiting the eclectic shops and cafes nestled amongst them. In Emerald you can ride Australia’s oldest steam train, Puffing Billy, or stay in the secluded B&B’s of Olinda and Sassafras.

Melbourne

Chances are you've arrived in the Yarra Valley from Melbourne, but if you haven't you simply must take a day trip into this beautiful modern city on the winding Yarra River. As Australia's cultural capital, it provides a home for many galleries, festivals, theaters, concert halls, operas, band venues, bars and pubs, with a strong food, wine and coffee culture (large breath intake), all providing a wealth of reasons to visit at any time of year. For more information on this fun, buzzing metropolis, check out the Appy Travels Melbourne app!