Love is in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Looking for a special way to spend Valentine's Day? Click here to view a range of special events taking place around the region. Why not make a night of it and book a romantic getaway? There's a huge range of accommodation options from luxury stays to quiet B&Bs, pet-friendly stays and more.

Alternatively, Rob Dolan Wines is offering a $49 gift park that's a sweet and simple way to treat someone special. The special pack includes a bottle of True Colours Sparkling Rosé, some decadent Ruby Chocolate from Ministry of Chocolate, and limited edition Rob Dolan Go Vino 'go-anywhere' glasses. Click here to nab one for your Valentine.

They're also hosting a twilight picnic overlooking the estate with the vineyard in full bloom.
Celebrate love with a glass of Cuvée Rosé on arrival before unwinding on a picnic blanket, or patio table. Enjoy a complimentary tasting to select a wine of your choice to enjoy alongside a luxury picnic box, crafted by the chefs at The Farm Yarra Valley. As the sun sets, indulge in petit fours by candlelight.

Whether it's a special weekend or any romantic weekend, start it right with an indulgent brunch at Maria Cafe in Upwey, which is our top pick for a savoury nosh up with its Spanish-Mex inspired menu. However, if you and your sweetheart are a couple with a sweet tooth, Mary Eats Cake in Montrose makes a bottomless brunch and gin high tea that oozes with cake, class and sophistication.

Next, head up to SkyHigh Mount Dandenong and Scenic Lookout, where the panoramic views of Melbourne's skyline will take your breath away. On a clear day, you can see from the Mornington Peninsula across to Port Phillip Bay and the You Yangs on the southern horizon. Enjoy a drink at the SkyHigh Bistro, soak up the sensational views, stroll through the landscaped gardens and walking trails, or lose yourselves in the SkyHigh Maze.

The nearby township of Olinda is the place to stock up on cornerstone items for any romantic weekend - Drop into Only Mine Gourmet Chocolates, and create your own box of ooey, gooey, chewy handcrafted choccies. They also have a range of vegan and gluten-free options to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Alternatively, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie offers up a huge range of sweets set to satisfy every chocolate craving.

Jewellery has always been used to express love and romance. Of course, you don’t need an occasion to spoil your loved ones, but nothing says I love you more than a bespoke memento to remember your romantic weekend away. For beautifully designed and locally made jewellery and handicrafts, head to Tall Trees Studio.

Choosing to stay in the Yarra Valley? Enjoy a quiet farmstay experience at Glenlowren in one of their private cottages or round up a group of friends/ couples and enjoy a fabulous group stay with so many of the region's best attractions at your doorstep.

Wanna go luxe? Experience an incredible dinner and an overnight stay at the newly-opened boutique Re'em located at Helen & Joey.

If your accommodation has a fully equipped kitchen, take advantage of the local produce and stock up for a romantic night in. Alternatively, there are plenty of options to indulge in cuisines from around the world. Cognoscenti Food & Wine is a cosy neighbourhood restaurant in Belgrave, featuring modern Australian cuisine with a European twist and boldly celebrates fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. With an impressive wine and cocktail list, and a star-lit courtyard, it's the perfect backdrop to your intimate evening.

For something a little less formal, Babaji's Kitchen in Belgrave serves up Southern Indian Street Food, Keralan village-style curries, dosa, craft beer, fresh coconuts and traditional chai. They can also deliver to your local BnB if you're feeling particularly relaxed after your busy day exploring the Dandenong Ranges.

Dinner and a movie is still a classic date night idea, so top off your night by dropping into the historic Cameo Cinemas, which boasts an Outdoor Cinema in summer. Sink into a comfortable deck chair or flop into a couple of bean bags and chill.

For the ultimate, unique romantic experience in the Dandenong Ranges, jump on board the first-class carriage of Puffing Billy Railway and enjoy the nostalgia of bygone days. If a proposal is on the cards, this would be a memorable way to do it. Leaving Belgrave Puffing Billy Station, the train will chug its way through the scenic vista of the Dandenong Ranges for three hours (giving you plenty of time to find the perfect moment to propose). The first-class dining experience serves up a three-course meal and drinks to ‘wet the whistle’ as your travel.