Puffy Billy and Yarra Valley Winery (*507)

The Dandenongs

The Dandenong Ranges, also known as the Dandenongs, are beautiful mountain ranges just 35kms east of Melbourne. At their peak, they rise to more than 630 metres and are wrapped in lush rainforests of Mountain Ash trees (the tallest flowering plant in the world), waterfalls, rolling hills and steep valleys. The region is home to numerous arts & craft stores and cafés.

Grants on Sherbrooke & Morning Tea

Right in the heart of the Dandenongs is Grants on Sherbrooke – a gorgeous spot to take a break. You’ll be greeted by the surrounding mountain hue and crisp clear air. While here you’ll enjoy a traditional Aussie billy tea with Vegemite, crackers & lamingtons.

Handfeeding the Bird Life

The Dandenongs is a haven for bird life and while at Grants on Sherbrooke you can handfeed some of the most striking Australian birds such as the colourful Crimson Rosella, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo and Pink-chested Galah. You’ll also be entertained by the wonderful bird song that fills the valley.

Puffing Billy Steam Train

Next you head to Belgrave, home of the famous Puffing Billy Steam Train, where you are in for some fun! This century-old steam train is maintained in its original glory and runs to this day on its own mountain track from Belgrave to Menzies Creek. Here you’ll go back in time as you get on board for a 30 minute ride through the heart of the rainforest. You’ll head through the gorgeous Sherbrooke Forest and ride over the old Trestle Bridge. Just before Menzies Creek you can see stunning views of Port Phillip Bay. 

Yarra Valley Wineries

The scenery en route to the Yarra Valley is just spectacular with the Great Dividing Range as the backdrop. When you arrive in Victoria’s premium wine growing region, you’ll visit Rochford Winery and another two leading wineries for wine tasting, appreciation and education. Of the many wineries in the area, you may visit estates such as Dominique Portet, who offer cellar-door tastings of their award-winning selections of Australian wine.