Fruit
ON your way through Coldstream, stop by some of the many fruit farms along the highways and the back roads to get your fill on fresh produce. Yarra Valley Gateway Estate has u-pick options, as does Big Fella Cherries later in the year, among other farms in the area. A truck-stop near Lilydale on the Maroondah Highway often has fruit vendors for a last-minute shop.
Open spaces
THERE are many open spaces for visitors to explore in Coldstream. The Margaret Lewis Reserve is a wildlife habitat which formerly belonged to a farming property owned by Margaret Lewis – the reserve is a great place to go for a walk, and is an off-leash area for dogs to explore. A playground and barbecue are available for visitors. Near the town’s football oval, a newly-built skate park and playground will keep younger visitors entertained for hours.
Warramate Hills Nature Conservation Reserve
Warramate Hills is a short drive out of Coldstream, into Gruyere, but is well worth the trip. The reserve is a great place to go for bush walks surrounded by nature on a cool spring day. Mobile reception is patchy at best, so remember to bring supplies, including water, sturdy shoes, ample food and sun protection.
Trash and treasure
THOSE after a bargain can visit the Yarra Ranges Recycling Services’ Treasure Chest Recycled Goods shop in Coldstream at the Waste Transfer Station at the corner of Ingram and Leonard Road – a myriad of interesting items are on offer, with anything, including the kitchen sink, up for sale.
Adventure
COLDSTREAM has much to offer in the way of experiences, with two nearby airports providing flights and skydiving opportunities over the Yarra Valley. Anyone after a less adrenaline-filled way of seeing the valley from the sky can also book a hot air balloon trip in advance and float above the area before stopping in at one of the many wineries along the highways for breakfast or a glass of bubbly – as well as a segway trip through the grape vines.
