The Yarra Valley

If you thought France was the only place in the world ripe with sun-kissed vines and delectable produce, then you've never set foot in the stunning Yarra Valley. Almost 50 wineries in the region have put The Yarra Valley on the map as one of Victoria's most revered wine destinations. Award-winning wines hail from the region recognised the world over for its cool climate wines.

Here, gourmet food and fine wine is a perfect match. Quaff a cherry-perfumed pinot noir, teamed with duck breast and spiced quinces. Indulge in a platter of rich local cheeses like blue vein goat's cheese or aged buffalo. True foodies can lap up cooking classes, food and wine matching sessions and the Yarra Valley Food Trail, where more than 100 gastronomic hot spots are ripe for discovery.

For those seeking an organic outing, the Yarra Valley offers "farm gate" venues and orchards across Wandin, Silvan, Woori Yallock, Launching Place and Coldstream. Bring a basket and take your fill of strawberries, boysensberries and blueberries.

Great artists have also found their inspiration in the Valley. Discover the shape of their talents at the many galleries and art and craft shops dotted throughout the region. You'll find handmade pottery, jewellery, paintings, ceramics and furniture in idyllic bush villages like Warrandyte, Yarra Glen, and Warburton. If you'd like a lesson in art history, follow the famous Heidelberg School Artists Trail with more than 50 road signs that lead the way to artwork and painting spots frequented by famous Australian artists like Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts and Clara Southern.

Stop off in Coldstream, where you can catch a glimpse of the house where Australia's world famous operatic daughter Dame Nellie Melba lived. If you're a fan of the great Dame of song, head to the Museum of Lillydale to learn more about her rise to the international opera circuit.

And for a spectacular finale to your Yarra Valley adventure, try a heavenly pursuit - a hot air balloon ride. Because if ever there was a region you'd love to see from on high, the Yarra Valley, with its sprawling vineyards and majestic mountains, is it. Known as the "sport of the gods", hot air ballooning lets you float across the region, with a champagne in your hand, and the world at your feet. As you drift gently into a stunning vineyard, a gourmet breakfast awaits, with sunrise as your backdrop. How's that for a grand start to the day?

Contact details

• Website: http://www.yarravalleytourism.asn.au/