Things to Do in the Yarra Valley in Winter: Your Guide to a Cosy Weekend Away
There's a particular magic to the Yarra Valley in winter that the warmer months simply can't replicate. The air is crisp and eucalyptus-scented, the wineries are quiet and unhurried, fungi emerge along the forest floors, and the fireplaces are lit. If you've been saving the Yarra Valley for a summer trip, this might be the post that changes your mind.
Just one hour from Melbourne, the Yarra Valley and its surrounding towns - Healesville, Yarra Glen, Cottles Bridge and Hurstbridge - offer a genuinely full winter weekend without ever feeling like you're trying too hard. Here's what to do.
Warm Up at a Winery
Winter is arguably the best time to visit the Yarra Valley's wineries. The crowds thin out, the cellar doors feel more intimate, and there's something deeply satisfying about a glass of Pinot Noir when it's cold outside. The valley is home to dozens of wineries within easy reach; well-known names include Yering Station, one of Victoria's oldest and most beautiful, Zonzo Estate and Massaros. For something quieter and off the beaten track, Wedgetail Estate, Panton Hill Winery, Greenstone Vineyards, Fondata and Five Vineyard are all worth seeking out. Most cellar doors are open through winter but hours can vary, so it's worth checking ahead before you visit.
Alowyn Gardens
One of the Yarra Valley's best kept secrets, Alowyn Gardens in Yering is a stunning formal garden that changes beautifully with the seasons. Winter brings a quieter, more contemplative version of the garden; bare branches, frost on the ground in the early morning and a stillness that's hard to find elsewhere. It's the kind of place you wander without a plan and leave feeling genuinely restored.
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
Non-negotiable in winter. The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is worth the visit in any season but the melting pot hot chocolate takes on a whole new significance when it's cold outside. The range is extraordinary and it's one of those places that's impossible to leave empty-handed. Go in the afternoon when you need something warm and indulgent to break up the day.
Novel Nook - Yarra Glen
Tucked into Bell Street in Yarra Glen, Novel Nook is an independent bookshop open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm. It's the kind of place that's dangerously easy to spend an hour in; towering shelves, curated gifts, a second-hand section and a lovely atmosphere that makes buying books feel like a necessity rather than a luxury. Perfect for stocking up on something to read by the firepit.
Healesville - A Town Worth a Half Day
Healesville is about 30 minutes from Cottles Bridge and absolutely worth a half day in winter. Start at Plum & Rye, a beloved organic sourdough microbakery open Thursday to Friday 10am-2pm and at Healesville Organic Market on Saturdays, if you're timing your visit right, this is a must. Browse Charley Horse for vintage clothing, pop into Verso Books for another independent bookshop fix, and pick up something special from Cheesemonger Sophie; a local favourite for artisan cheese and small providore goods that make the perfect addition to a firepit evening back at the bus.
For dinner, Munroe's Burger and Beer is a solid choice; unpretentious, delicious and exactly what you want after a day in the cold.
Badger Weir Walk
Just outside Healesville in the Yarra Ranges National Park, Badger Weir is one of the best winter walks near Melbourne. The trail winds through ancient fern gullies, along Coranderrk Creek and past towering Mountain Ash trees, and in winter the forest floor comes alive with fungi, making it feel entirely different from a summer visit. There are multiple trail options ranging from an easy 1.1km flat walk to a 3km loop, so it suits all fitness levels. Gates open at 8am and close at 6pm in winter, so plan accordingly. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, crimson rosellas and king parrots along the way.
Sugarloaf Reservoir
For a peaceful winter walk closer to home, the Sugarloaf Reservoir loop offers a beautiful circuit through native bushland with views over the reservoir. It's quieter than Badger Weir and a good option if you want something gentle and unhurried, bring a thermos and take your time.
Goldman's Road
Right across the road from Moss & Wheels, Goldman's Road is the easiest walk of the weekend, a gentle gravel road with rolling hills, good views and kangaroos regularly spotted along the way. It's the kind of walk that takes about an hour but feels like two because there's no reason to rush. Perfect for a late morning before heading out for the day.
If you're after a special dinner out closer to home, Greasy Zoe's in Hurstbridge is an award-winning two-hat restaurant that's well worth the trip; just make sure you book well in advance as it fills up fast.
End Every Evening at the Firepit
Whatever you do during the day, evenings in winter at Moss & Wheels belong to the firepit. It's the most talked-about feature of the stay across over 100 five-star reviews, guests consistently describe sitting by the fire under the stars as the highlight of their trip. Pick up firewood, grab something from the kitchen, and let the evening unfold at its own pace.
Where to Stay
Moss & Wheels in Cottles Bridge is the ideal base for a winter Yarra Valley weekend, a beautifully converted bus tucked into the bush, one hour from Melbourne, with a firepit, hammock, air conditioning and heating for year-round comfort. Read more about the stay here or book directly at mossandwheels@gmail.com.
How to Book
Moss & Wheels is available via Airbnb or directly by emailing mossandwheels@gmail.com - direct bookings are warmly welcomed.
Images by @georgiaschipp, @gabriella.gunther, @globalballooningaustralia
