By Jodie Symonds
SUMMER is the perfect time for a weekend away.
While Healesville is known for being one of Victoria’s largest wine regions, this busy town has more to offer than just exquisite wine.
The many acres of farm land and rolling hills make it the ultimate tourist destination.
Situated 52km east of Melbourne, Healesville on a weekend is jam-packed with hungry foodies filling the many cafes, bars and restaurants along the main street.
This beautiful township has many attractions, including the Yarra Valley Railway and the iconic Healesville Sanctuary.
Take a step back in time as you board one of the historic 1950s steam trains at the Yarra Valley Railway, run solely by dedicated volunteers who make the experience like no other.
If you love to appreciate Australian wildlife, a short drive will take you the Healesville Sanctuary on Badger Creek Road in Healesville.
The Sanctuary is loaded with animals to see and things to do, including the chance to become a vet for a day, meet the keepers, and even get up close and personal with your favourite furry friends in a Magic Moment.
Meet all of Healesville Sanctuary’s little creatures, including Australia’s iconic koala and kangaroo.
You can visit the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, located within the Sanctuary – to meet vets and nurses and be able to watch the daily action of caring for ill wildlife.
After all of that excitement, you may become a bit peckish.
Luckily, Healesville has many places where you can grab a bite.
Enjoy a locally made wine and a home-made pizza at the Innocent Bystander, located in the heart of town.
For a good ol’ fashioned pub meal, head down to the main street to the Grand Hotel, where you can eat a fabulous ’parma’ to cure your hunger.
If you are in need of something sweet to finish off, or to take home something delicious, Healesville’s Candy Emporium is a wonderland full of delicious treats and old favourites.
For something to cool down after being in the heat, while exploring the beautiful town, there are many places to enjoy a yummy ice-cream.
gelAperia is an Italian-owned business – which creates a large array of delectable gelato flavours including a classic vanilla, a rich chocolate and even a chai flavour, made by Yarra Valley Tea Co.
A nice lemon sorbet may delight your palette on a hot summer’s day, and gelAperia make some great flavours, sourced from local businesses.
To celebrate the ultimate adventure in Healesville, the Fluid Lounge or the Grand Hotel are the perfect places to enjoy a beverage and have a dance with friends and family.
The Fluid Lounge is located in the Main Street of Healesville, and offers live music, events to get you up and about. It has held events including Magic Men, The Eagles Story and Scarecrow the Mellencamp Show.
There are loads of things to do in Healesville, and now you have the greatest reasons to visit (not that you need them).
