Healesville in Victoria is a lovely, small town situated at the gateway to the Yarra Valley. Think small bars, wine tastings, and local food, with a focus on wine, art, and window shopping. The main street is popular for visitors to stroll along, taking in the scenery and relaxed atmosphere. Here you will discover small boutique shops, bakeries, cafes, and wine bars. The historic and well-maintained buildings in Healesville are set before a backdrop of hills and valleys.
Healesville, Victoria is a small, picturesque country town. This area is ideal for a day trip or overnight stay, and is only 1 hour drive from Melbourne.
There are many places to discover in Healesville. Let’s dive into a couple of my favourites!
Healesville Food and Drinks
Four Pillars Healesville
Four Pillars in Healesville is a gin distillery located as you enter the town from Melbourne. The welcoming modern exterior, colorful interior to the carefully chosen gin tastings, the distillery set up to be an entire experience
To accompany the gin tastings are meal options, a varied drinks menu, including wine, beers, soft drinks, and of course an extensive list of gins.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the welcoming and professional tone of Four Pillars.
We had a delicious gin tasting flight, which included a range of interesting infusions, including Modern Australian, Four Pillars Dry Gin. Bloody Shiraz and the Sticky Carpet (infused with beer to taste like a pub!).
At Four Pillars there is a smooth transition from the greeting by door staff, to the restaurant and bar service, providing an all-round customer experience.
Innocent Bystander Healesville
Innocent Bystander in Healesville is a restaurant located at the opposite end of the town. The large drink hall atmosphere, selection of drinks, and incredible wood-fired pizzas are not to be missed.
The service is professional and there is a kids menu and highchairs available. If you happen to order a glass of wine, you keep your glass for refills. A top idea to keep the dishes to a minimum!
The inside dining space at Innocent Bystander is bustling with chatter as waiters weave between the tables delivering food and wine, Best to pre-book on weekends and in good weather!
Dining With Kids in Healesville
I found it easy to take my toddler to the restaurants we visited in Healesville. Highchairs were provided and the staff were welcoming. There is often a kids menu available and drawing packs. Healesville is generally family friendly and accommodating, making life easier for parents of all ages.
Healesville Accommodation
There are many accommodation options in Healesville, Victoria. As the town is very close to the Yarra Valley, and not far from Melbourne, Healesville is a sought-after destination for a night or weekend getaway.
There are Airbnb apartments and houses, hotels, and a nearby holiday park. There are many accommodation options, ranging in price.
From the beautiful Healesville Hotel, to a selection of apartments and luxury houses, there is accommodation to suit everyone on Healesville. Prices begin at $150 per night for a couples room, going up to $600 for a whole house.
Healesville Art Galleries
Healesville also has a thriving art scene. TarraWarra Museum Of Art is a stunning art gallery with surrounding gardens. From an extensive Australian collection, to modern Art exhibitions TarraWarra is a beautiful gallery to visit to take in some art, taste some wine or both, The exhibitions change often at TarraWarra, making this a gallery not to be missed.
Healesville Fine Art Gallery is run by Agnes Szetey, an award-winning, self-taught artist. Her works depict the stunning range of Australian landscape and wildlife, covering everything from deserts to the mountains.
Yava Gallery and Arts Hub is located in the centre of Healesville. An art gallery showcasing contemporary works, supporting both established and emerging artists. Yava Gallery also hosts creative events including poetry, dance and music, and theatre performances.
Healesville Weather
Like anywhere in Victoria or Melbourne, it’s best to prepare for all kinds of weather in Healesville, depending on your preference,
Whether you like to rug up in winter or sit outside in the sun sipping wine, Healesville has something for everyone.
This pretty town is enticing in all seasons. From wood fires in winter to hikes and delicious food and drinks in the warmer seasons.
Healesville Sancturary
Healesville Sancturary is a wildlife park set in natural and protected parkland, spanning 70 acres. Visiting the Sancturary is a great day out for families if you’re looking for Australian wildlife. Healesville Sancturary is also less overwhelming than the busier Melbourne Zoo.
With the aim of protecting some of the most endangered Australian Animals, Healesville Sanctaury is popular with young families and nature lovers. There is a cafe serving hot food and drinks and the usual ammeneties.
The wedged-tailed eagle show is a standout, set in the outdoor amphitheatre at scheduled times during the day.
Healesville Map
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip not far from Melbourne, Healesville is an easy option if you love food, wine and country surroundings. Some travellers may overlook Healesville as they drive through town, while heading to the famous Yara Valley wine region in Victoria. But if you take a drive on a clear weekend through Healesville, you’ll be tempted to stop and experience the delicious wines and local produce.
