Puffing Billy
Ride from Belgrave through mountain ash and fern gullies. Book the railway ahead, then leave time for Emerald Lake or a Belgrave lunch.
Plan the railway day
Wineries and cellar doors, misty-mountain stays, produce-driven kitchens, waterfalls and wedding venues — the most complete guide to Victoria's Yarra Ranges.
BOOK A DANDENONG RANGES DAY OUT
See fern-filled ranges by steam train, then meet Victoria’s native wildlife—with return transport from Melbourne.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you book through these GetYourGuide links, at no extra cost to you.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you book through these GetYourGuide links, at no extra cost to you.
Explore every town across the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. Click a marker to open the town guide and jump straight to its attractions.
Day trips from Melbourne
Close enough for a day trip, varied enough for a longer stay: choose steam railway history, Australian wildlife, fern-filled forest, hilltop villages or the cool-climate produce of the Yarra Valley. These starting points work for Melbourne locals and international visitors planning without a car.
Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Featured guided day tour
Pair the Dandenong Ranges’ century-old steam railway with close encounters at Healesville Sanctuary. Transport from Melbourne makes this the simplest full-day option for first-time and overseas visitors.
Ride from Belgrave through mountain ash and fern gullies. Book the railway ahead, then leave time for Emerald Lake or a Belgrave lunch.
Plan the railway dayMake native wildlife the anchor, with Healesville’s cafés or Maroondah Reservoir as an easy second stop. Guided transport suits visitors without a car.
Explore the sanctuaryChoose Sherbrooke Forest for towering mountain ash and lyrebirds, or pair a short waterfall walk with gardens. Trails can be muddy after rain.
Choose a forest walkBrowse Olinda and Sassafras slowly: gardens, small shops and a booked high tea work better than rushing between stops.
Explore Olinda →Build a route around two or three cellar doors, then add local cheese, chocolate or a long lunch. A tour keeps tastings relaxed and driving simple.
Browse local wineries →