Settle in for a longer stay

Take the leap - visit Marysville. Pictures: KATH GANNAWAY

By Kath Gannaway

IF you happen to be planning a day trip to Marysville, be sure to pack your tooth brush and a change of clothes … there’s every chance you’ll want to stay over!
Wondering where you’d stay?
There are over 1000 accommodation beds in the area, offering a range of options from luxury bed and breakfasts to family cabins and self-contained cottages, so there is sure to be something that suits your needs.
Located under an hour from the Yarra Valley, and only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Marysville is very do-able as a fun-filled day trip, but there is sooo much to do and see, you’ll be wishing you had just a bit more time.
Surrounded by the forests of the Great Dividing Range, the region lends itself to heaps of fun, outdoor activities from a gentle stroll to full-day hikes, cycling, bushwalking and fishing to more tranquil pursuits such as photography, sketching or just stretching out with a book by a mountain stream.
You’ll need a bed to rest up after all that … because there’s more!
Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden is an iconic attraction in the heart of the town and along with Gallipoli Park – an ideal spot for a paddle in the Steavenson River, the Kin Playspace – a state-of-the-art adventure playground, the fascinating Historical Society Museum and the equally engaging Phoenix Museum, art galleries, a great mix of shops from the iconic Marysville Lolly Shop to beautiful gift and souvenir shops, there is plenty to keep everyone on the go.
If you love a market, and can tweak your dates, the Marysville Community Market on the second and fourth Sundays of each month is loaded with goodies from crafts and plants to preserves, gifts and local olive oil, honey and wine.
Marysville Information Centre is a first stop for everything you need to know about having a great time in this diverse and inviting region, including booking a great place to stay. Phone 5963 4567 or visit www.marysvilletourism.com/visitor-information