Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

One hour from Melbourne, the popular Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges is a sight of Victoria’s magnificent green countryside. The area is dotted with fruit orchards, market gardens, vineyards, flower farms and grand gardens. The Yarra Valley District wine region produces high quality chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir. Beside it, rising to a height of approx 550 metres are the lush Dandenong Ranges. The region offers breathtaking beauty of the area between Healesville and the Black Spur. Healsville is the home to the famous Healsville Sanctuary, showcasing more than 200 species of Australian animals. The Dandenong Ranges are lushly forested and there are a number of townships tucked away in the hills. Heavy rainfall and rich volcanic soil have created lush vegetation with spectacular hills and gullies crowded with creepers, ferns and mountain ash.