The Yarra Valley lies less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, yet feels far away with its picturesque winelands, national parks, and picturesque gardens. Discover world-class wines and gourmet cuisine, or even take an exciting hot air balloon ride over this scenic region!
Yarra Valley’s top grape varieties include chardonnay, pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon. Experience their delicate flavours in a vineyard setting or relax among serene gardens featuring wisteria-covered arches.
1. The Arboretum
The Arboretum is one of the premier professional photo spots in Yarra Valley for its expansive range of European trees such as birches and conifers, stunning pond with ornamental garden, winding paths through trees that offer couples depth perception in photographs, stunning ornamental garden with water features such as fountains or sculptures, ornamental garden fountains or ornamental fountains as well as its winding paths through trees that offer depth perception photos of couples or individuals alike. Springtime visits should be scheduled; when azaleas and rhodendrons bloom with great displays from blooming to their fullest!
Yarra Valley parks and gardens are known for their seasonal displays of blooming beauty, making for stunning wedding photo backdrops. One such garden, North Rhododendron Gardens is especially stunning, boasting an assortment of azaleas, camellias and daffodils – ideal for any photographer in search of that special shot!
The Alfred Nicholas Gardens are more relaxing, featuring winding paths through the trees. Meanwhile, William Ricketts Sanctuary draws visitors for its Secret Garden-esque mystery, where beautifully-sculpted clay pieces nestle under overhanging fern beds.
Yarra Ranges provide an incredible natural setting, filled with rugged mountain vistas that are sure to capture the attention of any photographer or videographer. Mt Donna Buang in particular boasts spectacular forest scenery, including enormous mountain ash trees and lush fern gullies – surefire ways of drawing inspiration for your images!
Warrandyte State Park, known for its picturesque bushland and river, and walking trails can also provide spectacular mountain vistas. Kangaroos and wallabies frequently frequent this park while Kinglake National Park provides less touristy alternatives that showcase nature in all its glory, from rough terrain to breathtaking Mount Sugarloaf views.
For an extra romantic atmosphere, the Yarra Valley boasts some gorgeous vineyards and estates that provide idyllic venues for elopements. Many offer both outdoor and indoor ceremony options if the elements get in the way; Balgownie Estate provides both spectacular deck views over the Yarra Valley as well as an all-weather marquee for ceremonies, making it a prime location.
2. Wirra-Willa Rainforest Walk
If you’re searching for a stunning photo backdrop, McKenzie Reserve provides an ideal setting. Boasting acres of manicured lawn trees and tranquil lakes, this location makes the ideal setting to capture natural and candid wedding pictures. Furthermore, this area boasts maple trees which turn vibrant red during autumn for added contrast against the green vineyards in the distance.
Wirra-Willa Rainforest Walk, found within Toolangi State Forest, is one of Yarra Valley’s hidden treasures, where one can explore pristine temperate rainforest filled with tree ferns, lichens and mosses, plus numerous species of fungi. Along this boardwalk are also waterfalls, large rock formations, as well as spectacular Sylvia Creek and Mrytle Creeks that add further dimension.
As this trail can be steep and muddy in spots, sturdy boots should be worn. Furthermore, bring water and food as this could take quite some time to complete.
Yarra Ranges is famous for its wineries and vineyards, but also offers stunning natural scenery. The region’s mountains boast breathtaking mountain vistas while lush forests boast vibrant leaves bursting with color. Additionally, many eucalyptus trees and fern gullies can also be found throughout this stunning region.
Warrandyte State Park is an ideal spot for hiking and wildlife photography enthusiasts looking for that ‘natural shot’. Home to native plants and animals like kangaroos, as well as being suitable for biking, picnicking and even camping trips – Warrandyte is also an excellent spot for biking tours!
Yarra Valley offers nature lovers an ideal destination, featuring several waterfalls and creeks that will provide them with ample outdoor activities. Some of its most striking waterfalls include Upper Yarra Falls and Lower Yarra Falls in state parks with road access allowing easy access from all directions.
The Yarra Valley offers the ideal setting for an elopement. Boasting top-tier vineyards and romantic atmosphere, it provides couples who wish to elope a memorable and special setting for their ceremony. Plus, with historic wineries and rustic estates as a backdrop for intimate elopements – it makes the ideal location!
3. Point Lonsdale Pier
Point Lonsdale sits south-east on The Bellarine Peninsula and boasts an enviable coastal location, providing stunning views over Port Phillip Bay’s treacherous entrance known as The Rip. Visit its lighthouse to tour its historical structure used to guide large ships through this treacherous stretch of water and learn local marine history. Or venture down to its nearby pier for some fresh sea air and amazing clifftop vistas with rolling waves!
Point Lonsdale Jetty and Lighthouse provide ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs. A rocky path connects them; from there it leads directly onto the jetty where sunrise or sunset photos with both structures in the background can be taken beautifully. Furthermore, fishing opportunities abound on its expansive pier thanks to numerous rock pools and reefs which offer different species that you can target!
At high tide, it is well worth walking along the jetty to take in its breathtaking sights and enjoy a pleasant walk along one of its pedestrian-only sections – perfect for taking photos or simply relaxing while admiring boats and birds passing by. Kids love playing on its sand dunes while there are several cafes along its esplanade which offer lunch or drinks while taking in all that beauty around you.
Yarra Valley boasts stunning water views, but also offers an abundance of other natural landscapes. From Silvan’s wildflowers and vibrant tulips at Tesselar Tulip Festival to native wildlife on Yarra Valley Wildlife Drive or wandering among tall eucalyptus trees and verdant fern gullies of Toolangi State Forest; photography opportunities abound here!
Yarra Valley offers an abundance of boutique wineries where visitors can experience its famous wines. A particular favorite among us is Healesville’s Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery – we love their creamy treats after an adventure-filled day exploring!
There’s plenty to see and do in Yarra Valley too, from visiting the historic Healesville Railway Station to sampling some of the region’s best produce at local farm gates and cellar doors. Additionally, hot air balloon rides provide another fantastic way to take in this breathtaking panorama from above!
4. Dog Rocks
This area is famed for its stunning beauty, providing photographers of all levels endless photographic opportunities. The varied shapes and sizes of granite rocks provide photographers with endless compositional possibilities; there are also some striking gnarled trees which can frame stunning photographs if visited during peak times. However, as this location becomes more and more popular you should expect large crowds during these peak times.
This stunning location offers breathtaking views of Yarra Valley. There are some picturesque rocky outcrops which make ideal locations for framing shots, and moss-covered trees create some striking foregrounds. Additionally, taking a walk along its cliff top path gives visitors the chance to encounter local birds and animals that live there.
At Melbourne Lake Gardens I find it impossible to go wrong when shooting here, one of my favourite locations. While not as remote, this beautiful setting still makes for great family or couple photographs – use slow shutter speeds for dreamier effects with the water or use wide angle lenses for panoramic shots of surrounding bushland. Make sure to visit during Autumn when leaves will change color!
The Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens cover over 13 acres. Established as a tribute to Aspro aspirin founder Alfred Nicholas and his wife, these exquisite gardens contain native flora. Furthermore, there are also some striking trees which serve as focal points. A beautiful pond complete with ornamental garden creates the perfect background.
If you prefer more intimate photos, the garden also boasts a number of small chapels which can be hired out for weddings. With such beautiful surroundings to offer visitors from both Melbourne and beyond, its gardens should not be missed!
Historic and heritage listed site is an ideal venue to provide couples with a romantic, special backdrop on their special day. Its intimate yet charming interiors will add charm and bring out its romantic magic on that special day.