Located just outside the bustling culture capital of Melbourne is a region of temptation... a region which boasts some of the world’s best cool climate wines, tantalising local produce and breath-taking scenery. But the best part about this place is that it is located just 45 minutes drive from Melbourne’s CBD, this is the Yarra Valley.
Over 70 world class wineries call this place home and it is one of Australia’s coolest viticultural regions. It’s hard not to notice a definite air of elegance and prestige when wondering from winery to winery down here and the dedication of local wine producers to their art is impressive.
As a general rule, the best way to get a good view of an area is to head to the highest point you can find, however here in the Yarra you can do one better than that, leaving terra firma all together to head high in the skies above this spectacular region in a hot air balloon. Hot air balloons can be seen almost any clear morning floating gracefully over the Yarra region and let me tell you, there really is no better or more relaxing way to catch one of the most beautiful sunrises this country has to offer.
The Yarra Valley has also adopted the name of ‘The Valley of Plenty’, a perfect way to describe the mountains of fresh local produce that is grown here. If you plan on a fast food stop off here, then give yourself an upper-cut, eating in the Yarra is an experience of its own. Local produce can be found everywhere, from the menus of classy restaurants, to stalls on the side of the road, but the best way to taste these local delicacies is to head straight to the producers themselves. Local cheese producers, fish farms, vegetable plots, dairies and farms of all descriptions call the Yarra home and you would be crazy not to visit them, whether you fancy yourself a food expert or simply like to eat.
If you are ever in Melbourne, The Yarra Valley is just one of those places you have to visit.