Four Pillars Gin, Healesville Sanctuary open for long weekend
From gin tastings to an eco-adventure through the trees, there’s no shortage of places to explore in the Yarra Ranges this long weekend, with venues welcoming back visitors after Victoria’s lockdown. But some spots are off-limits.
Outer East
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You can’t visit the Redwood Forest or 1000 Steps due to social distancing concerns but there’s plenty of other attractions to explore in the Yarra Ranges this long weekend.
Four Pillars Gin, Healesville Sanctuary and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery are among the venues welcoming back visitors.
Yarra Ranges Tourism is urging everyone planning a visit to book before they leave home.
Healesville’s Four Pillars Gin said on Facebook it was taking bookings for free small-group tastings this long weekend.
Yarra Glen’s Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery has also reopened its all day cafe with a special menu, with visitors able to enjoy pastries and desserts with table service.
The gorgeous native animals at Healesville Sanctuary are also ready to welcome back visitors — just remember to book before you leave home.
Trees Adventure, an eco-adventure through the trees at Glen Harrow Park in Belgrave, has also reopened, and Rayner’s Orchard in Woori Yallock is again offering fruit tasting adventure tours.
If you need a cheese fix, head to the Yarra Valley Dairy in Yering, which is offering some reopening specials.
In the Dandenongs, SkyHigh and Cloudehill Gardens have reopened, while if you’re looking to finally enjoy a beer outside of your home the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel, Coldstream Brewery and Healesville Hotel are among the venues welcoming visitors.
Domaine Chandon has opened its winery and cellar door in a bookings-only capacity.
The winery will require everyone who wishes to come on-site to register their name and phone number with a member of staff.
Meletos has also reopened its doors to guests and is offering ‘Stay and Dine’ packages which includes one night’s accommodation in its Vigneto Room.
Although the 1000 Steps and Redwood Forest are closed, there’s no shortage of other walks to enjoy, including a stroll throughBirdsland Reserve in Belgrave South, Emerald Lake Park, or Badger Weir Walk.
If you’re looking for somewhere to take the kids, the Olinda playspace has proved popular since opening last year.
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