The Australian Bucket List

Victoria

HealesvilleEscape the hustle and bustle of the city into a world of indulgence. Enjoy nature at it’s finest, rolling hills covered in vineyards, world-class food and wine and iconic encounters with wildlife.

The heart of Victoria's Yarra Valley food and wine region, Healesville is also world-famous for its wildlife sanctuary housing more than 200 species of Australian native animals Healesville Sanctuary is the place to go for guaranteed encounters with iconic Australian animals like platypus, koalas, Tasmanian devils, lyrebirds, kangaroos, emus, wallabies, dingoes and echidnas. The sanctuary has played a leading role in the long-term care and protection of Australian wildlife, and visitors can peek into the Australian Wildlife Health Centre to glimpse an injured or orphaned animal on its journey through the process of rescue, care and rehabilitation. There's also lots to see and learn about Aboriginal culture at Healesville Sanctuary. Healesville is an important food and wine centre. The Innocent Bystander gourmet emporium is conveniently close to Healesville Sanctuary for post-wildlife wine tasting, pizzas, artisan breads, cheeses, and freshly-roasted coffee. A packed calendar of food and wine events throughout the year shows off the region's bounty. Visit local vineyards to sample locally produced wines and talk to their makers at cellar doors. Healesville is surrounded by scenic countryside. Enjoy a picnic at the peaceful Badger Weir Park then take a short stroll through fern gullies and mountain ash. Wander through the town and browse the eclectic range of shops and boutiques selling pottery, handcrafted jewellery, vintage finds and handmade treats. Ride in a motorised, open air trolley on the Yarra Valley Tourist Railway. The original trolleys were used by workmen checking the line. Healesville is 60 kilometres or just under an hour east of Melbourne on the Maroondah Highway.

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Things to do

Get up close to the wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary

Explore a bushland haven for Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, just one hour from Melbourne in the stunning Yarra Valley wine region. Wander tranquil tracks and see iconic Australian animals including koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats, emus and more. Discover majestic birds of prey and magnificent parrots in the spectacular Spirits of The Sky bird show. Tales from Platypus Creek allows you to see the platypus up close in the world-first interactive daily platypus show. Take a visit to the Australian Wildlife Health Centre to meet our vets and nurses as they care for sick, injured or orphaned wildlife in need of care. Healesville Sanctuary is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm every day of the year.

Dine at Healesville Hotel

Old world charm and new world style - the Healesville Hotel is an iconic Yarra Valley restaurant. In winter it’s the perfect place to rug up with a glass of sumptuous red wine and acts as the perfect introduction to many of the wineries you will no doubt visit, with an extensive wine list that celebrates small producers and iconic names. The food here is consistent and delicious, showcasing seasonal flare and locally sourced ingredients.

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