The Melbourne to Marysville Drive

Leave the city far behind and enjoy the green scapes of the Yarra Valley. Hit the outer east of Melbourne (take the M3 to Lilydale and then the Maroondah Highway – B360 veers left as you leave Lilydale) where this road trip unfolds through open pastures, extended views of symmetrical vineyards (a real treat to view in autumn) and lush forests.

With a gently sloping gradient arrive ‘up in the hills’ passing through quaint townships such as Healesville. Stop along the way and enjoy some wine tasting – there are more than 90 wineries in the region, and the cellar door experience is unparalleled.

Past Healesville, Mountain Ash, flowering gums, myrtle and tree ferns rise up on both sides of the road providing a sheltered drive that is cool in summer, misty in winter and delightful any other time of the year. Keep an eye out for the locals – there’s flora and fauna aplenty in this natural habitat for Australian wildlife.

In Marysville, stop for a famous Devonshire tea or bakery stock up, take a walk to Steavenson Falls to stretch your legs, spend a day with and enjoy a game of barefoot bowls or a round of golf at Marysville Community Gold and Bowls Club and enjoy this charming village that has literally been rebuilt from the ashes of the 2009 bushfires.

Turn a road trip into an overnight stay at a gorgeous boutique option like Marysville Garden Cottages or take a night to appreciate the contemporary luxury of Peppers Maryville hotel.

In winter, a drive to Marysville is the perfect route to the snowfields of Lake Mountain.

Cyclists who enjoy a challenge can take on the Lake Mountain leg of the 7 Peaks Ascent Challenge or the Marysville Lake Mountain Challenge in March.

Take your time, this drive has expected treasures along the way and cannot be rushed.

Stops along the way: Too many to mention but highlights of your trip are Healesville, Narbethong and your destination Marysville

Distance: approx. 100 km one way from Melbourne CBD (via M3, to B360)

Time: around I hour and 50 mins one way

Terrain: Sealed roads, steep winding sections on the Black Spur

Note: Mobile phone reception may be intermittent in mountainous areas