The Yarra Valley, with its rolling hills, green vineyards and stunning views is the ultimate playground for outdoor and foodies. Whether you’re indulging in treats from the local markets or sipping on a glass from the cellar doors, the Yarra Valley is the perfect spot for a picnic. Surrounded by nature this wine region has some of the best picnic spots, from parks with water views to hidden forest escapes. In this guide we’ll take you to the most beautiful picnic spots across the Yarra Valley, each with stunning views, picnic tables, BBQ facilities and plenty of native wildlife to spot.
Maroondah Reservoir Park – History and Nature
Maroondah Reservoir Park, managed by Parks Victoria, is one of the Yarra Valley’s oldest and most popular picnic spots. The park is famous for its gardens, exotic and native trees, heritage listed dam wall and of course the water that reflects the surrounding greenery. Whether you’re having a family picnic or just a day out you’ll find plenty of picnic shelters and picnic tables.
Walk through the gardens or take in the views from the dam wall and don’t forget your camera to spot the native wildlife like kookaburras and kangaroos. The park has electric barbecues and plenty of toilet facilities so it’s a great option for big groups or a family day out.
- Picnic Amenities: BBQ facilities, picnic tables, walking trails, toilet facilities, water views
- Perfect For: Family picnics, large groups, history lovers, water views
- Nearby: Maroondah Highway, Healesville Sanctuary, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar
Healesville Sanctuary Picnic Area – Picnic with Wildlife
For a picnic and wildlife encounter like no other Healesville Sanctuary is the ultimate experience. The picnic area is situated within the sanctuary’s beautiful grounds where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by the sounds of the bush and the sight of Australia’s most iconic animals. With picnic tables and electric barbecues you can relax while the kids enjoy the kangaroos, koalas and other native wildlife.
A visit to Healesville Sanctuary is a chance to not only have a peaceful picnic but also learn about Australia’s unique fauna. For an extra treat head to one of the nearby wineries, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar, for a wine tasting before you picnic.
- Picnic Amenities: Picnic tables, BBQ facilities, native wildlife
- Perfect For: Family, wildlife, Aussie animals
- Nearby: Healesville Sanctuary, Melba Highway, Christmas Hills, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar
Silvan Reservoir Park – A Quiet Getaway with Views
Looking for something more peaceful and less busy? Silvan Reservoir Park is the place to go for peace and views of the hills and valley floor. This hidden treasure is not just great for picnics but has walking trails through native bush as well. The big open spaces and barbecues make it perfect for family gatherings and the shaded areas are a summer sun escape.
After your picnic you can visit nearby attractions like Mount Dandenong or the villages of the Dandenong Ranges. For sweet treats you can visit local cafes or enjoy homemade treats under the trees.
- Picnic Amenities: BBQ facilities, picnic tables, toilet facilities, large open spaces
- Perfect For: Quiet picnics, family days, hikers, nature lovers
- Nearby Attractions: Mount Dandenong, Badger Creek, Melba Highway, Warramate Hills
Warramate Hills Nature Conservation Reserve – For the Brave
Warramate Hills Nature Conservation Reserve is a more rugged and natural picnic experience. Famous for its views of the Yarra Valley this reserve is perfect for those who love to hike and get outdoors. Its elevated position gives stunning views of the valley and vineyards. There are no formal picnic tables or BBQ facilities but the natural beauty of the reserve makes it a great spot for an adventure picnic.
Hikers can walk the reserve’s trails through bushland full of native wildlife. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the peace as you munch on local produce and treats from the nearby markets or cellar doors.
- Picnic Amenities: Secluded areas, hiking trails, views
- Perfect For: Adventurers, hikers, secluded picnics
- Nearby Attractions: Christmas Hills, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar, Coombe Yarra Valley
Coombe Yarra Valley – Luxury
For a luxury picnic experience Coombe Yarra Valley is the place to go. Former home of the legendary Dame Nellie Melba this estate has a beautiful picnic setting in its formal gardens. Coombe’s grounds are perfect for a romantic picnic where you can indulge in gourmet food and a glass of wine surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Don’t forget to visit the cellar door and taste their wines. Then take a walk through the gardens with oak and elm trees to add a touch of class to your outdoor dining.
- Picnic Amenities: Formal gardens, shaded seating, wine tasting nearby
- Perfect For: Romantic picnics, wine enthusiasts, formal outdoor dining
- Nearby Attractions: Melba Highway, Dame Nellie Melba heritage, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar
Lilydale Lake Park – Fun for the Whole Family
Lilydale Lake Park is a family favourite, something for everyone. Big grassy hills, electric barbecues and adventure playgrounds, it’s the perfect spot for a fun day out with the family. The lake is great for paddle boating or fishing and the open spaces are perfect for games and chill out.
After lunch take a walk along the lake or grab a sweet treat from one of the nearby cafes. Whatever you want active play or a day by the lake, Lilydale Lake Park has it.
- Picnic Amenities: BBQs, picnic tables, playground, lake activities
- Perfect For: Families, large groups, water activities
- Nearby Attractions: Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar, Yarra Valley Wineries, Badger Weir
Yering Gorge – Riverside Serenity
For a peaceful riverside picnic Yering Gorge is the spot. Situated along the banks of the Yarra River this spot has stunning views of the valley and surrounding vineyards. The picnic area is secluded so perfect for a quiet afternoon with family or friends. You can also explore the nearby nature trails or spot native wildlife along the riverbanks.
Yering Gorge is great for couples looking for a romantic getaway or bird watchers to spot some local birdlife. Bring a bottle of Yarra Valley wine to top it off.
- Picnic Amenities: Riverside location, walking trails, native wildlife, scenic views
- Perfect For: Couples, bird watchers, peaceful picnics
- Nearby Attractions: Christmas Hills, Healesville Sanctuary, Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar
Badger Weir Picnic Area – Rainforest Getaway
Surrounded by trees and ferns Badger Weir Picnic Area is a rainforest like setting for your picnic. Part of Parks Victoria so it’s well maintained and has plenty of picnic tables, electric BBQs and toilet facilities. A gentle creek runs through the picnic area so it’s a great spot to enjoy your meal.
After your picnic take a walk along one of the many trails that wind through the rainforest and get glimpses of native wildlife and plants. Perfect for nature lovers looking for a peaceful escape.
- Picnic Amenities: BBQs, picnic tables, rainforest walking tracks, native animals
- Perfect For: Nature lovers, families, outdoor escapes
- Nearby Attractions: Badger Creek, Healesville Sanctuary, Silvan Reservoir Park
Westerfolds Park – River views and big picnic areas
Westerfolds Park, managed by Parks Victoria has a mix of open spaces and river views. Great for family gatherings or group outings with picnic shelters, toilet facilities and BBQs.
Walk along the river or set up near the adventure playgrounds so the kids can entertain themselves while the adults relax. Whether you want an active or restful day Westerfolds Park is the spot.
- Picnic Amenities: BBQs, playgrounds, river views, toilet facilities
- Perfect For: Families, group picnics, outdoor fun
- Nearby Attractions: Yarra Bend Park, Yarra Flats Park, Westgate Park
Conclusion
The Yarra Valley has so many beautiful picnic spots to choose from, each with its own magic. From the gardens of Coombe Yarra Valley to the forest trails of Warramate Hills, there’s a spot for every kind of picnic. Pack a bag of sweet goodies, grab a bottle of local wine, and enjoy it all. With picnic tables, electric BBQs, and so much natural beauty, your next Yarra Valley picnic will be a real treat.
For an even richer experience, combine your outdoor dining with a winery tour in Yarra Valley, exploring local vineyards and picking up the perfect bottle to complement your picnic.
FAQs
Where are the best family picnic spots in the Yarra Valley?
- Lilydale Lake Park and Healesville Sanctuary are great for family picnics with playgrounds, BBQs and nearby activities.
Are there picnic shelters in Yarra Valley picnic spots?
- Yes, many parks like Maroondah Reservoir Park and Westerfolds Park have picnic shelters so you can picnic in any weather.
Can I see Australian animals while I picnic?
- Yes! Healesville Sanctuary and Badger Weir are known for their native wildlife, kangaroos and koalas.
Are there BBQs at most Yarra Valley picnic spots?
- Yes, parks like Maroondah Reservoir Park and Silvan Reservoir Park have electric BBQs.
Can I do wine tasting with my picnic?
- Yes! The Yarra Valley is a wine region and spots like Coombe Yarra Valley and Jayden Ong Winery & Cellar Bar do wine tastings so you can have wine and picnics.