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
The General Strath Creek
Set within a restored barn, The General Strath Creek is a country corner shop with a condensed curation of everyday items. From hot coffee, to home made sausage rolls, each item conveys a sense of support and community. Built to supply locals and welcome visitors, The General Strath Creek is a place for everything and everyone. Open everyday (except Tuesday) with evening meals served Friday and Saturday night.
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Open Studio – Darren Gilbert
Enjoy Open Studio with Darren Gilbert is an art, design, and sculpture exhibition.
An open studio of pen and ink artwork of Australian animals and organic metal sculptures. Have the opportunity to see and purchase hand crafted artworks and sculptures direct from the artist.
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 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.