Healesville Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Healesville, Victoria, from hiking and biking to tasting local wine and trying traditional dishes. Learn about the culture and customs of this charming town and plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Healesville

Healesville is a charming town located in the heart of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, known for its gorgeous natural landscapes, excellent outdoor activities, and rich cultural scene. It is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the great Australian outdoors, learn about the local history and culture, try delicious traditional cuisine, and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Healesville

There are countless things to see and experience in Healesville, from world-renowned wineries and museums to picturesque hiking and biking trails, and more. Here are some must-see attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Healesville Sanctuary - a unique wildlife sanctuary where you can see and learn about Australia’s native animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, wombats, and more.
  • TarraWarra Museum of Art - a contemporary art museum showcasing works by Australian and international artists, set in a stunning vineyard estate.
  • Badger Creek Blueberry Farm - a family-owned farm where you can pick your own fresh berries, enjoy delicious treats made from blueberries, and learn about the local history.

Natural Attractions of Healesville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Riddell - a challenging yet rewarding hiking trail that takes you to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the valley.
  • Yarra Valley Railway - a vintage steam train ride that takes you through the scenic Yarra Valley, past vineyards, forests, and charming towns.
  • Maroondah Reservoir Park - a beautiful park with picnic areas, walking paths, and stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Healesville

Healesville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with countless hiking and biking trails just waiting to be explored. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail - a beautiful 38-kilometer trail that follows the historic railway line through the picturesque Yarra Valley.
  • Donnelly’s Weir Loop Trail - a scenic 7-kilometer hiking trail that takes you through forests, past waterfalls, and along the river.
  • Mount St. Leonard Circuit Trail - a challenging 15-kilometer hiking trail that takes you to the summit of Mount St. Leonard for stunning views of the valley.

Best Things to Do in Healesville: Activities and Tours

In addition to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, Healesville offers many other exciting things to see and do. Here are some of the best:

  • Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours - Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s most famous wine regions, known for its excellent pinot noir, chardonnay, and sparkling wines. Take a tour of the local vineyards and taste the best wines the region has to offer.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - experience the stunning Yarra Valley from a unique perspective with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
  • Gourmet Food Tours - sample the best local cuisine, including cheese, chocolate, and fresh produce, on a gourmet food tour of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Healesville

If you’re planning to spend a week in Healesville, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Healesville, check into your hotel, and explore the town on foot.
2 Visit the Healesville Sanctuary and TarraWarra Museum of Art.
3 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley in the morning. In the afternoon, visit some local wineries for wine tasting.
4 Hike the Donnelly’s Weir Loop Trail.
5 Take a gourmet food tour of the region, visiting local farms, cheese makers, and chocolatiers.
6 Visit the Badger Creek Blueberry Farm and pick your own berries. In the afternoon, take a relaxing steam train ride through the valley.
7 Hike the Mount St. Leonard Circuit Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views of the valley.

Food and Drink Scene of Healesville

Healesville is known for its excellent cuisine and wine, with plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lamb souvlaki - slow-cooked lamb served on a skewer, seasoned with Greek herbs and spices. Best enjoyed with tzatziki sauce and pita bread.
  • Roast beef with horseradish aioli - tender roast beef served with tangy horseradish sauce, roasted vegetables, and crispy potatoes.
  • Blueberry pie - a delicious dessert made from fresh local blueberries, served with cream or ice cream.

Local Beverages

  • Yarra Valley wine - the region’s most famous export, with excellent pinot noir, chardonnay, and sparkling wine. Be sure to try some of the local favorites, such as De Bortoli and Yarra Yering.
  • Foster’s Lager - a classic Australian beer, best enjoyed on a balmy summer evening.

Where to Stay in Healesville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Healesville offers plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, there’s something for everyone. Here are some top picks:

  • Healesville Hotel - a charming boutique hotel in the heart of town, known for its excellent food and wine.
  • Yarra Gables Bed and Breakfast - a cozy guesthouse with beautiful gardens and stunning views of the valley.
  • Healesville YHA - a budget-friendly hostel in a central location, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.

What to Buy in Healesville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Healesville is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home with you. Here are some local products you might want to consider:

  • Local honey - Yarra Valley is home to many beekeepers and honey farms. Sample some of the delicious local honey and bring a jar or two home with you.
  • Handcrafted ceramics - there are many local artisans producing beautiful ceramics, including plates, bowls, and mugs.
  • Artisanal chocolates - Yarra Valley is also known for its excellent chocolate makers. Treat yourself to some delicious handmade truffles or bars.

Local Culture and Customs of Healesville

Healesville is a welcoming and friendly town, known for its strong community spirit and laid-back vibe. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, including:

  • Greeting locals politely - Australians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. When meeting someone new, it is customary to offer a handshake and introduce yourself.
  • Leaving a tip - it is common to leave a small tip (10-15%) for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars.
  • Respecting the natural environment - Healesville is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to take care of the environment and avoid littering or disturbing the local wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Healesville

The best time to visit Healesville depends on your preferences and interests. If you want to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and hike the trails, autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) are ideal. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the trees and flowers are in full bloom. If you prefer to taste the local wine and enjoy the region’s food scene, summer (December to February) is the best time to go.

Do’s and Don’ts of Healesville

To make the most of your time in Healesville and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Take a camera - Healesville offers some of the most beautiful natural and man-made landscapes. You’ll want to capture these on camera.
  • Respect the locals - Australians are known for their friendly personality, so always greet and treat the locals with respect.
  • Stay on the trails - many hiking trails in Healesville are in protected areas. For your safety and to preserve the natural habitat, it is essential to stay on the designated trails.

Don’t:

  • Litter - keep the environment clean and green. Make sure to dispose of garbage in the designated bins.
  • Pick flowers or plants - many plants and flowers in Healesville are protected. Don’t pick them or disturb them in any way.
  • Feed the wildlife - while it might be tempting to feed the animals, it’s essential not to do so. Feeding them can make them reliant on human food and can cause harm to their health.

Safety and Health

Healesville is a safe and healthy destination for travelers. However, it is essential to take the necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips:

Safety in Healesville

  • Watch out for snakes - during the warmer months, snakes may be present in some areas. If you’re hiking, stay on the designated trails, and watch out for snakes. If you see one, give it plenty of space and do not antagonize it.
  • Be weather-aware - while the weather in Healesville is generally mild and pleasant, it can change quickly. Always check the forecast before heading out, and bring appropriate clothing and gear.

Health in Healesville

  • Protect yourself from the sun - the sun in Australia can be intense, particularly in the summer months. Be sure to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Stay hydrated - Healesville is located in a hot and dry region, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

Getting to Healesville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Healesville is located approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) east of Melbourne, the nearest major city. Here are some transportation options for getting to Healesville:

Airports Near Healesville

  • Melbourne Airport - Melbourne Airport is approximately a 75-minute drive from Healesville and offers flights from most major cities worldwide.

Bus Stations Near Healesville

  • Lilydale Station - the nearest train station to Healesville, located approximately a 25-minute drive away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Healesville.

Other Options

  • Car rental - renting a car is the easiest way to get to Healesville and explore the surrounding region.
  • Private transfer - several private transfer companies offer door-to-door service from Melbourne to Healesville.

How to Get Around in Healesville

Healesville is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to explore the surrounding countryside or visit the nearby vineyards, a car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Healesville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Healesville is an excellent base for exploring the Yarra Valley and the surrounding region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you might want to consider:

  • Warburton - a charming town located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Healesville, known for its stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Phillip Island - a popular day trip destination from Melbourne, famous for its penguin parade and beautiful beaches.
  • Great Ocean Road - one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, stretching for over 240 kilometers (150 miles) along Australia’s southern coast.

Conclusion

Healesville is a beautiful and charming town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture vulture, a foodie, or a wine lover, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do in this delightful destination. So why not pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the best of Healesville today!