The Yarra Valley is only an hour from Melbourne and is one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. But it’s not just for wine lovers. With its stunning vineyard views, award winning wines and mixed of family activities, there’s something for everyone. From wine tastings at boutique wineries like Yarra Valley Winery to kids running wild in open fields, the Yarra Valley is the perfect place for families to have a day out. Many wineries have adapted to have kids in mind and offer playgrounds, petting zoos and activities so parents can relax while the kids have fun.
Beyond the famous views of the Dandenong Ranges and city skylines, the Yarra Valley is a destination for families who want a balance of nature, food and great wine. Whether you visit a dog friendly winery like Punt Road Wines, try the award winning vineyard at Yering Station or taste the amazing wines at Domaine Chandon there’s something for everyone.
Yarra Valley is the Family Friendly Destination
The Yarra Valley is the closest wine region to Melbourne so it’s super easy for families to get to for a quick escape. The region has a range of wines, great dining and outdoor activities for kids. Many wineries also have farmyard animals, cubby houses and chess boards so your little ones will be entertained while you enjoy your visit.
Along with the child friendly wineries the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is a family favourite especially for those with a sweet tooth. Combine a winery visit with a stop at the chocolaterie or Healesville Sanctuary and you have the perfect combination of indulgence and adventure. Parents can enjoy a glass or bottle of wine while kids do interactive learning with native animals. The region also has regular art activities, outdoor games and beautiful picnic spots so both kids and adults will leave with memories.
Top Family Friendly Wineries in Yarra Valley
Domaine Chandon
Domaine Chandon, part of the Moët & Chandon brand, is one of the most famous wineries in the Yarra Valley. With a beautiful setting and large lawns it’s perfect for families. While parents enjoy wine and wine tastings, kids can play in the open space and explore the property. The cellar door at Domaine Chandon gives wine enthusiasts a behind the scenes look at the winemaking process and the views of the region are perfect for family photos. Be sure to try their amazing wines including their famous sparkling.
Yering Station
The oldest winery in the Yarra Valley, Yering Station is a mix of old and family friendly. Mum can taste award winning wines in the cellar while the kids play in the gardens. The winery has regular art activities and exhibitions so it’s more than just a wine tasting destination. There’s plenty of room for the kids to run around and wine flights for mum to enjoy. A must visit for families.
Rochford Wines
Rochford Wines is family focussed. With plenty of outdoor space, live music and kids entertainment on weekends the atmosphere is relaxed. The cellar door experiences offer tastings of their full range of wines including some of the biggest wines in the region. The restaurant has a variety of food with a kids menu. Whether you’re attending one of their family events or just having a quiet day out Rochford Wines will be a day to remember for the whole family.
Yarrawood Estate
With views of the Yarra Valley and a relaxed vibe Yarrawood Estate is a family favourite. Spacious picnic areas and picnic baskets available the estate is the perfect place for a family day out. Mum can taste the boutique wines while the kids can run free in the outdoor space. The seasonal menu caters for all tastes and kids will love the open space.
Punt Road Wines
Punt Road Wines is one of the most family friendly wineries in the Yarra Valley. The big lawn and relaxed atmosphere is the perfect spot for families. Kids can play in the open fields while mum and dad taste some of the best wines at the cellar door. The winery is proud of its bottle of wine offerings which include a wide range of wines from the region. Punt Road Wines is also a dog friendly winery so your furry family members can come along too.
Other Family Friendly Wineries
Tarrawarra Estate
Tarrawarra Estate has stunning views and a big range of wines. Families can walk the grounds while mum and dad taste at the cellar door. The estate has regular art activities so it’s a cultural day out for the family.
Badger Creek Blueberry Winery
At Badger Creek Blueberry Winery kids can meet farmyard animals and families can picnic. This dog friendly winery has blueberry based wines for mum and dad so it’s a bit of a different experience in the Yarra Valley.
Rob Dolan Wines
Rob Dolan Wines is a family friendly environment where mum can taste at the cellar door while the kids play outside. The cellar is airy and has plenty of space to chill and mum can taste some of their boutique wines in the peaceful surroundings.
Kid Friendly Activities at Yarra Valley Wineries
Playgrounds and Open Space
Helen’s Hill and Matilda Bay have big backyards with lawns and open space for kids to run around while you enjoy a glass of wine. Many wineries also have regular art activities the whole family can do.
Farm Animals and Cubby Houses
Some wineries like Yering Farm Wines and Badger Creek Blueberry Winery have farm animals on site, so kids can get up close and personal. Animals and even cubby houses mean kids are entertained and these wineries are family favourites.
Wine for Parents, Fun for Kids
Wineries like Rochford Wines and Yarrawood Estate have it all – wine flights and cellar door experiences for parents and fun activities for kids to explore the vineyard or meet the farm animals. Parents can relax with award winning wines while the kids have a blast.
Food at Family Friendly Wineries
Kids Menu
Many wineries including Paz Estate and Seville Hill have a kids menu with kids favourites like pizzas and burgers while parents can enjoy food and wine pairings.
Picnic Areas and Outdoor Dining
Yarrawood Estate and Rob Dolan Wines have picnic and outdoor dining areas. Plenty of space and beautiful views make for a perfect day out in the Yarra Valley.
Top 3 Must See Attractions near Yarra Valley Wineries
Healesville Sanctuary
You can’t visit the Yarra Valley without stopping at Healesville Sanctuary. Near many family friendly wineries this wildlife sanctuary is where kids can see and learn about Australia’s native animals. After a day of wine tasting, the sanctuary is a fun and educational stop for the whole family.
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
If you have a sweet tooth, the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is a must. Near many wineries it has a huge range of chocolates and desserts kids will love. After wine tasting this is the place to satisfy your family’s sweet tooth.
Conclusion
The Yarra Valley isn’t just for wine lovers – it’s a great family destination too. With award winning wines, boutique wineries and family friendly options like farm animals, playgrounds and plenty of outdoor space, the Yarra Valley has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting the family friendly wineries or nearby attractions like Healesville Sanctuary and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, this region has it all. The views, the wine and the space make the Yarra Valley the perfect day out for the whole family.
FAQs
Are wineries in Yarra Valley kid friendly?
Yes, many wineries have playgrounds and open space and some even have farm animals for the kids to interact with.
Can I bring my dog to Yarra Valley wineries?
Some wineries, like Badger Creek Blueberry Winery, are dog friendly and welcome pets on their grounds.
What food is available at Yarra Valley wineries?
Seasonal menus and child friendly options.
Are there picnic areas at wineries in Yarra Valley?
Yes, Yarrawood Estate and Punt Road Wines have picnic areas for families.
What else can families do in Yarra Valley?
Families can visit Healesville Sanctuary and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie too.
