Free and Affordable Ideas for a Great Day Out in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Whether you're a nature lover, foodie, or looking for a family-friendly experience, the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges has something to make your next day out memorable without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best free and cheap ideas that will leave everyone smiling and keep your bank account happy.

Explore the Kokoda Memorial Walk (1000 Steps)

• Cost: Free
• Location: Dandenong Ranges National Park

A perfect blend of history, fitness, and nature, the Kokoda Memorial Walk—also known as the 1000 Steps—is one of the most popular hikes in the Dandenong Ranges. The walk takes you through lush fern gullies and tall mountain ash trees, leading to incredible views that are well worth the effort.

It’s a great way to bond over a shared challenge and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery. Don’t forget to pack some water and enjoy a picnic post-hike at the nearby Sherbrooke Forest.

Picnic at Lillydale Lake

• Cost: Free
• Location: Lilydale

Lillydale Lake is a serene spot perfect for relaxing, enjoying the children's playground and sandy shores in the fresh air, having a play date with your pup in the off-leash dog areas or a picnic by the water. You can pack your own lunch or grab a takeaway from a local café. enjoy the mostly flat 2.5 km walking track around the lake, and you might even want to hire a kayak or paddleboard (if your budget allows).

Bike the Trails

• Cost: Free
• Location: throughout the region
  

Cycle trails and mountain bike tracks are located throughout the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges, including the popular Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail. Spin your wheels along the kilometres of flat pathways - or if you’re up for a challenging mountain bike adventure, you’ll find plenty of challenging spots in Warburton to get the heart pumping.

Click here to find plenty of inspiration for kid-friendly cycle paths to advanced downhill mountain thrills

Browse Local Farmers and Craft Markets

• Cost: Free to browse, food under $30
• Locations: Various locations- Check out our market diary here

Wandering through local markets is a fantastic day out. You can sample delicious local produce, admire handmade goods, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Many markets in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges offer free entry and have plenty of cheap eats and local produce. Grab a coffee and a food truck snack while browsing the stalls —it’s a laid-back, fun way to spend your morning.

A Sweet Afternoon at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery

• Cost: Plenty to enjoy under $25
• Location: Yarra Glen

For a sweet and inexpensive treat, visit the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. You’ll be greeted with chocolate samples and the delicious opportunity to browse the extensive range of handmade chocolates and treats. You'll often find the chocolatiers hard at work via the large viewing window.

Indulge in a small dessert from the café (many options are under $10) or treat yourself to ice cream. Afterwards, take a walk through the picturesque grounds of the chocolaterie, which offers lovely views of the surrounding valley.

Chase Waterfalls and Explore the Gardens

• Cost: Free
• Location: Various locations

The gorgeous gardens and spectacular natural attractions of the region make for a low-cost, high-reward day out. Filled with birdsong and local wildlife, colourful seasonal flowers, peaceful ponds, charming walking paths, towering trees and cascading waterfalls, there's always a photogenic spot to explore any day of the year.

Cheap and Cheerful Dining

• Cost: Under $50
  
• Location: Various locations

If you're looking for affordable yet delicious dining in the Yarra Valley, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds without emptying your wallet. Casual eateries such as Bam Bam Italian (pictured above) and Innocent Bystander both offer great wood-fired pizzas and local wines at reasonable prices, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.

Beechworth Bakery is just one of many delicious local bakeries in the region that serve up favourites such as hearty pies, sandwiches, and sweet treats- all ideal for a quick and budget-friendly bite.

For something more exotic, check out Babaji's Kerala Kitchen in both Warburton and Belgrave, where you can enjoy authentic South Indian curries and street food with plenty of flavor, all at wallet-friendly prices, especially if you round up your friends and sample a variety of shared dishes.

Explore Warburton’s Redwood Forest

• Cost: Free
• Location: Warburton