Just north of the Great Dividing Range the township of Yea is nestled in a beautiful valley at the meeting of the Yea and Goulburn Rivers. Only a 90 minute drive from Melbourne, Yea offers a relaxed country experience.
The Yea township boasts historic buildings, a thriving main street and a strong arts culture. It's also a key town on the Great Victorian Rail Trail. With a range of award-winning wineries, restaurants and accommodation options on offer, Yea is the perfect base to explore the area’s surrounding scenic and historic sites.
HIGHLIGHTS
RAIL TRAIL
The Great Victorian Rail Trail winds through much of this area making these townships a great stopping off point for cyclists wishing to explore the fabulous range of welcoming country pubs, great eateries, local art galleries and quirky stores.
YEA WETLANDS DISCOVERY CENTRE
Drop into the Alexandra Timber Tramway and Museum for a ride on one of the historic locomotives and learn more about the early history of rail in the area.
MURRINDINDI SCENIC RESERVE
One of the lesser known gems of our region, the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, is a great spot offering a bit of everything. There's a range of bushwalking, multiple camping areas, waterfalls, a picturesque river for water play as well as bird watching and fishing opportunities.
EAT & DRINK
The General Strath Creek
Set within a restored barn, The General Strath Creek is a country corner shop with a condensed curation of everyday items. From hot coffee, to home made sausage rolls, each item conveys a sense of support and community. Built to supply locals and welcome visitors, The General Strath Creek is a place for everything and everyone. Open everyday (except Tuesday) with evening meals served Friday and Saturday night.
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Yea Garden Expo
The township of Yea is just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne. The Yea Rotary Club has organised a Garden Expo. This is just the time of year when interested gardeners are busy preparing their gardens for spring colour. The Expo provides an opportunity to view a host of garden-related products at the Yea Saleyards site (Flat Lead Road), just off the Yea – Whittlesea Road, a few kilometres on the south side of Yea. The site is flat, sealed and easily accessible for everyone. Dogs are permitted provided on a leash.
Why not take advantage of the $10 entry fee, free parking, a wide range of goods and services, and a plentiful supply of food and drinks, much of it homemade and come and visit. Over 70 vendors will be on site with exhibits ranging from bulbs, seeds, seedlings, flowering plants and trees to garden tools and equipment, garden art and ornaments, compost, fertilisers and more. Check out The Australian made ride on, articulated tipping barrow which has always been a big hit with visitors as are the quirky horseshoe garden sculptures, produced by local Darryl Callander and which can be made to order.
STAY
The Vineyard House
Nestled in the rolling hills of Murrindindi, the new vineyard accommodation at Sedona Estate offers a unique country experience with a touch of luxury. You will be spoiled by mesmerising views over the Sedona Estate vineyards, stunning sunsets, and night skies plus an abundance of wildlife. The Vineyard House experience is a soulful winery escape for discerning couples.
Surrounded by pristine landscapes guests will wake up to the songs of native birds or local farm animals and fall asleep to the concerts of frogs. The Vineyard House offers a King Room with ensuite and a Queen Room plus a luxe bathroom. Each room is curated with attention to detail and the house and garden is an exhibition of fine local art.
Within 90 minutes from Melbourne, you can enjoy the amazing Victorian countryside and experience the viticulture of an award-winning winery tucked away in Murrindindi’s beautiful rolling landscape.