By Derek Schlennstedt
Set out on a summer road trip from Melbourne to the nearby Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges region and find inspiration at every turn.
Sample internationally recognised wines at historic wineries and follow well-marked routes to magical forests and ornamental gardens.
Stop off at farms and dairies selling fresh produce and gourmet treats, and savour seasonal dishes in cosy cafes and esteemed restaurants.
Among the most well-known and enjoyable trips is the drive through the Black Spur that cuts through the lush forest landscapes of the Yarra Ranges, linking the Yarra Valley with the mountain areas around Marysville.
Famous for its towering trees and spectacular valley views, the Black Spur connects Healesville with Narbethong on the Maroondah Highway as it winds its way up the Great Dividing Range.
Lower the windows and savour the fragrance of the Australian bush as you pass through the forest.
Gaze up at the immense mountain ash trees, which scatter the sunlight on the cool understorey of green ferns below.
At the base of the Black Spur you will find Fernshaw picnic area with rest facilities and you can also use the picnic facilities at Dom Dom in Marysville State Forest.
At Marysville, you can stop off at Steavenson Falls and take an easy stroll to one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls, which drop 84 metres into the Steavenson River Valley.
Cool off in the spray and then head on to Lake Mountain for some refreshing and cool mountain air, before looping back towards Warburton via Cumberland Junction.
There, you turn right onto Warburton-Woods Point Road, where drivers are faced with the beautiful Reefton Spur.
With a 95 per cent corner ratio along its 19-kilometre length and a combination of medium-paced tight corners, quiet roads and stunning views, Reefton Spur is one of the most infamous roads in Australia.
The spur is a legendary patch of road that has become a go-to destination for car enthusiasts and motorcycle riders and offers beautiful views of the Warburton Ranges.
Be sure, though, to watch for wildlife close to the road.
From there it’s straight to the homely village of Warburton where you may be tempted to drop into one of the excellent cafes for an afternoon snack or take a dip in the pitcturesque water of the Yarra River, which flows next to it.
Don’t forget to stop at the Redwood Forest along Cement Creek Road for that Insta-worthy photo.
From Warburton it’s just a hop, skip and a jump down to Lilydale along the Warburton Highway.
Summer is a magnificent time to travel through the forests of the Yarra Ranges, with cool mountain air the perfect escape for a hot day, but be sure to check the fire danger rating and keep informed by tuning in to the emergency radio.
