This regional town sure knows how to pack a punch. Just north of the Great Dividing Range and only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, Yea offers a relaxed country experience but with a progressive twist.
Boasting modern street art, award winning wineries, restaurants, historic buildings, a thriving main street and a strong arts culture, Yea Victoria is a key town on the Great Victorian Rail Trail.
HIGHLIGHTS
RAIL TRAIL
The Great Victorian Rail Trail winds through Yea, making it a great stop to wet the whistle, indulge the palate and inspire your inner creative, as cyclists can explore the fabulous range of welcoming country pubs, great eateries, local art galleries and quirky stores.
YEA WETLANDS DISCOVERY CENTRE
A trip to Yea, Victoria, isn’t complete without a wander through the Yea wetlands and the Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre
Situated on a 32-hectare floodplain the wetlands are home to platypus, koalas and many native and migratory waterbirds that watch over the billabongs. While the YWDC is an environmental learning and accredited visitor information centre, where you can also learn about the traditional owners, the Taungurung people.
The Yea Wetlands may be small on a world scale, but they provide inspiration in spades, opening your eyes to an abundance of bird life and fauna throughout the seasons.
MURRINDINDI SCENIC RESERVE
Pack a picnic, throw a line in, or even pitch a tent at the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve. Situated at the northern end of Toolangi State Forest, this large green oasis is less than 2 hours from Melbourne.
It includes tumbling waterfalls, Mountain Ash, fern-filled gullies and is the perfect place for bushwalking, bird watching, fishing and paddling in the shallows of the Murrindindi River.
EAT & DRINK
Country Club Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Yea, the Country Club Hotel is a local favourite with a long-standing reputation for hearty meals, cold beers, and good old-fashioned hospitality. Whether you are a local popping in for a weeknight parma or a traveller exploring Victoria’s High Country, you will feel right at home.
With a spacious beer garden, classic pub fare, regular live music, and a welcoming team behind the bar, the Country Club is a gathering place for friends, families, and visitors alike.
Great food. Great people. Country charm, served daily.
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
The Sassy Saxes, an afternoon of Big Band music
The Sassy Saxes will be back at Sedona Estate for a special music performance on Saint Nicholas Day. This gig is guaranteed to get your feet tapping. Enjoy an afternoon of Big Band classics with Pink Panther, Cosy Toes and Bill Bailey. The band members share a love for the upbeat Big Band music style and enjoy nothing more than entertaining people.
The Sassy Saxes will get you into the festive swing for Christmas with a special appearance by Saint Nicholas, the patron saint for children. He was the role model for the jolly Santa. There will be sweet surprises for the little ones.
Sip your favourite Sedona Estate wine and enjoy the upbeat Sassy Saxes concert. Culinary highlight will be the summer gourmet barbecue by My little Country Kitchen starting at 5:00 PM.
Menu and program are available on Sedona Estate’s website.
STAY
The Vineyard House
Nestled in the rolling hills of Murrindindi, the new vineyard accommodation at Sedona Estate offers a unique country experience with a touch of luxury. You will be spoiled by mesmerising views over the Sedona Estate vineyards, stunning sunsets, and night skies plus an abundance of wildlife. The Vineyard House experience is a soulful winery escape for discerning couples.
Surrounded by pristine landscapes guests will wake up to the songs of native birds or local farm animals and fall asleep to the concerts of frogs. The Vineyard House offers a King Room with ensuite plus a luxe main bathroom. Each room is curated with attention to detail and the house and garden are an exhibition of fine local art. Extra guests can enjoy the comfort of the Queen Room with access to the main bathroom.
With the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve at the doorstep, guests can explore the natural beauty of the cool temperate rain forest of the Great Divide, enjoy a hike to the Wilhelmina Falls or a stroll along the Murrindindi River. For keen bike riders the Great Victorian Rail Trail offers an adventure featuring the nearby historic Cheviot Tunnel and stunning artwork along the trail.
Within an easy 90-minute drive from Melbourne, you can enjoy the amazing Victorian countryside and experience the viticulture of an award-winning winery tucked away in Murrindindi’s beautiful rolling landscape.