The interstate or overseas honeymoon you were planning may not be possible at the moment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a week or two of loved up time together post-ceremony a little closer to home (restrictions permitting).
The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges were once the honeymoon capital of Melbourne, and in these times we can return to a simpler, yet completely luscious, newlywed getaway that places you deep within Australia’s best wine country, with plenty of activities to fill your days.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a weekend away in the region, consider how delightful a week or more can be. Choose to be out and about, or completely ensconced in a delightful hideaway in the forest for utter seclusion and sweet time with one another. These honeymoon recommendations will provide you with soft landing pads after the busyness of wedding preparations, and provide cherished moments to start the story of married life together.
And if you love a little exploring in the great outdoors, you’ll be surprised how central the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges is. Just an hour’s drive can hav you anywhere…but you’ll most likely find it hard to leave!
Things to do
You’ll absolutely need a day or two for winery explorations, a day for cycling the trails or walking the forests, a day for village wanders, a day for museums and the arts, and plenty of time for dining (breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner!) in our amazing restaurants. And of course there are those nothing days in between, where you sleep late, graze local produce by the fire, toast the sunset and chill together at your accommodation without the need to do anything. Bliss starts here.
Whether your seeking views of vineyards, the quintessential farmhouse, or a secret location in the forest, fall in love all over again in the Yarra Valley.
For privacy, beauty and luxury stays, we love: Wiggley Bottom Farm, Badger Creek – Nestled at the end of a willow lined driveway, this boutique pet friendly, farmstay situated on 15 acres means you can honeymoon with your pooch. Go for gorgeous country walks with your dog (there\’s 15 acres to explore) and meet/feed/pat the animals (miniature goats, horses and geese). Wiggley can arrange a gourmet hamper and a bottle of celebratory bubbles for couples to enjoy – perfect for a lazy summer’s picnic on the cottage lawn with your dog, or to curl up with in front of the fire in winter.
Araluen Boutique Accommodation, Yarra Glen – Award-winning boutique bed and breakfast accommodation with solar heated pool and outdoor entertaining. Luxurious self-contained spa villas. Relax and indulge in some ‘us’ time.
Balgownie Estate and Resort, Yarra Glen – With onsite pampering in the Day Spa and breathtaking views over an idyllic landscape, this 4.5 star resort has everything you need, and every reason to stay longer. Luxury plus with a range of onsite activities to enjoy. You may never leave.
In the Valley, Yarra Glen – Self-contained intimate studio suites with balconies overlooking fabulous rose gardens – sheer modern indulgence and relaxation with spas and fireplaces in every suite. Whole property and perfect privacy.
Valley Ranges Getaways are your go-to for 33 accommodation options in the Dandenong Ranges – all perfect for honeymooners. Think generous beds, secluded cottages, continental breakfasts and a home away from home vibe.
Suggestions include:
• The Blackwood, Sassafras – A private haven from city life, only a one minute walk from Sassafras. Elegant classical design with state-of-the-art technology.
•Magnolia on Mernda, Olinda – A stunning spacious home in a natural setting. Serenity assured. Generous and indulgent (and pet friendly).
• Twilight Cottage, Olinda – Enjoy your own special world with spa under the stars in a sweet cosy cottage just for two. Bookings can be made direct with the venue so secure your dates post-lockdown.
• Merrow Gatehouse Cottage, Mt Dandenong – Set in 10 acres of forest, indulgence guaranteed with four poster bed and spa with forest view.
