Winter Family Fun in the Yarra Valley

Instead of escaping the winter this year, why not embrace it with an adventure in our beautiful region. Whether it’s tobogganing in the snow, sampling the local seasonal produce, or meeting some of the wildlife.

You’ll find a range of activities to help you warm up or wind down, from bushwalks and bike tracks to art and culture and cosy fireside dining. Venture out for the day to embrace the crisp fresh air and bucolic scenery, and don’t forget to rug up.

Snow Wonder

Pull on your snow boots and beanie and make your way to the top of Mt Donna Buang for a magical day of play in the snow. The snow season spans from about mid-June to September each year and is a popular spot for families hoping to revel in an enchanting white wonderland. Toboggans are available for hire from a van on location, and a range of toboggan runs keep you active. Remember to check the conditions via Parks Victoria before your visit.

To Dine For

After your snow venture, you can warm up with a fireside meal in the charming village of Warburton, at the base of Mt Donna Buang mountain. Sample the seasonal menu and rustic elegance at the Alpine Hotel Warburton. There are many sumptuous family-friendly dining experiences on offer throughout the region. An artisan hot chocolate with the kids is a must at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. You can also stop at one of the many farm gates and roadside stalls to stock your pantry with fresh, local produce, including fruit and vegetables, poultry, cheeses and preserves.

Wild Thing

Meet and greet some of the local wildlife by wandering through the Healesville Sanctuary. If you’re looking for a more woolly adventure, check out Omaru Alpacas, conveniently located in a picturesque setting on the urban fringes of Melbourne in the Shire of Nillumbik.

Wonderworld

Winter is a magical time at the historic artists’ colony of Montsalvat in Eltham. It begins with WinterFest in June, with live music, entertainment, mulled wine, and delicious food on the agenda. Throughout the winter, you’ll also find an array of exhibitions, live music and workshops on offer, with something for everyone. Or you could explore the gardens and historic stone buildings, followed by coffee and cake, or a nourishing lunch.

Get Active

Warm up the old-fashioned way with a brisk walk or cycle along with one of Nillumbik’s many bush tracks and trails. The popular Diamond Creek Trail, which follows the Diamond Creek, now extends from Eltham to Hurstbridge. This is a leisurely meandering trail, wide enough for shared use, and popular with walkers and cyclists. Highlights along the trail include the diverse flora and fauna, the Diamond Valley Railway, Edendale Farm Community Environment Centre, the Diamond Creek Regional Playspace and the Hurstbridge Community Hub.

Winter Warmers

Nillumbik is overflowing with farm-fresh seasonal produce and winter is the ideal time to sample the local fare at one of the many enticing cafes and restaurants.

Black Vice Café & Roastery are always striving to provide a fantastic coffee and food experience. Their passion for sourcing the world's best coffees has culminated in being able to offer one of the largest coffee menus in Australia.

Make sure you check out weekly specials at A Boy Named Sue - they're Woodfired Sourdough Pizza specialists! You can totally tell the food is made with love by hand and heart!

Sneak in some wine tastings at Punch Wine Room, just one of Nillumbik's wineries.