Yarra Valley Lodge isn’t the kind of place you just stumble across while out and about – it’s somewhere you end up when you’re after a more relaxed pace of life, some good wine and a view that reminds you just why you love living in Australia. Tucked snuggly inside the Heritage Golf & Country Club, this lodge offers the perfect slice of country life without ever making you feel like you’ve had to give up on your creature comforts.
Yarra Valley Lodge isn’t somewhere you just crash for a night — it’s a proper stay that encourages you to slow down — where the sound of gum trees rustling in the breeze outside the balcony is your alarm clock, kookaburras call you awake, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh-cut fairways. This corner of Victoria works its magic best when you ease into it — and the Lodge gets that tempo spot on.
You’ll find it tucked away inside the Heritage Golf & Country Club, about a 45-minute drive from Melbourne. Close enough for a spontaneous escape, far enough to swap city noise for magpie calls and misty mornings.
A Peaceful Patch Between Vines And Fairways
Yarra Valley Lodge sits between manicured golf courses and rolling vineyards — a setting that calms you the second you arrive. Every room opens to a private balcony or garden terrace, where the morning mist lingers on the greens and kangaroos graze nearby.
Set within the Heritage Golf & Country Club, this property blends nature with luxury. The Jack Nicklaus–designed championship course is a highlight for golf lovers, while the valley’s walking trails and cellar doors are just a short drive away.
A Stay That Feels More Homestead Than Hotel
What makes Yarra Valley Lodge special is its casual charm. It feels more like a country homestead than a hotel — natural finishes, soft lighting, and open spaces make it warm and inviting.
Each spacious room includes free Wi-Fi, a mini fridge, and a flat-panel TV, but it still feels personal. You can enjoy in-room dining for quiet evenings or breakfast in bed with the balcony doors open to that fresh, gum-scented air.
Dining Worth Slowing Down For
The heart of the Lodge beats in Bella Restaurant, where Chef Steve Scambler champions local produce and seasonal menus. It’s genuine farm-to-table dining — simple, elegant and deeply connected to the region.
The dining room overlooks the terrace and golf course, catching soft afternoon light. Expect Yarra Valley produce, kitchen-garden herbs and wines from nearby vineyards. The breakfast buffet features pastries, Yarra Valley Dairy cheese and fresh local coffee.
By evening, the menu shifts with the seasons — truffle risotto in winter, heirloom tomatoes with goat’s cheese in summer. The Lodge Bar Bistro serves casual fare and local craft beers from Healesville and the Dandenong Ranges. Or stay in with a chilled Chardonnay or Heritage Estate Shiraz.
Golf Greens And Valley Views
The Heritage Golf & Country Club is a golfer’s paradise — wide fairways, lush greens and postcard views in every direction. The St John Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, ranks among Victoria’s top championship layouts.
The Pro Shop offers club hire, accessories and gear, making it easy for travellers. After your round, unwind with a drink at the Lodge Bar Bistro or visit the Heritage Retreat & Day Spa for a well-earned massage — everything’s within walking distance.
Wellness And Rest At Your Own Pace
Wellness at Yarra Valley Lodge is part of the experience. Inside the Heritage Retreat & Day Spa, choose from massages, aromatherapy or facials made with local botanicals. The spa’s timber, stone and soft lighting reflect the valley’s serenity. There’s also a heated indoor pool, steam room and fitness suite for those earning their next glass of wine.
Afternoons drift easily between the terrace and the spa — proof the Lodge moves at your pace, whether slow and mindful or completely still.
Seasonal Stays — The Valley Through The Year
Each season paints the Yarra Valley differently — misty winter mornings, golden autumn vineyards, bright spring blooms and long summer evenings. The Lodge is a perfect year-round retreat.
| Season | Average Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | What To Expect | Travel Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | 26 / 12 | 45 | Warm days, long evenings, great for outdoor dining and golf. | Book early — weekends fill fast with weddings. |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | 20 / 8 | 60 | Amber vineyards, crisp air, ideal for photography and hiking. | Stay midweek for quieter cellar doors. |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | 13 / 4 | 80 | Misty mornings, roaring fires, truffle season. | Pack layers — mornings are cold. |
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | 21 / 9 | 55 | Blooming vines, wildlife and perfect cycling weather. | Visit markets in Yarra Glen and Healesville. |
Late autumn is the sweet spot — golden vines, mellow cellar doors, and a quick golf round before winter’s chill sets in.
Local Experiences Worth Stepping Out For
There’s plenty nearby to tempt you from the Lodge:
- Taste local wines at Oakridge, De Bortoli, and Dominique Portet.
- Visit the historic Yarra Valley Grand Hotel from the 1880s.
- Explore TarraWarra Museum of Art — a fusion of architecture, art and vineyard views.
- Walk the Yarra Ranges National Park trails for nature at its best.
- Indulge in sweets at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery or cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy.
The Lodge can arrange group tastings, transport or even a hot-air balloon ride over the valley.
Practicalities: Getting Here And Around
Getting here is easy — follow the Eastern Freeway from Melbourne through Chirnside Park, then to Yarra Glen.
- Distance: 45 km from Melbourne
- Drive Time: 50–60 minutes
- Parking: Free and secure onsite
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi throughout
- Payment: All major credit and debit cards accepted
Without a car? Take the train to Lilydale Station then a taxi or ride-share to the Lodge. Once here, explore by car or shuttle — every road leads to a cellar door.
A Personal Story – The Morning That Sealed It For Me
I still remember waking one foggy June morning to kangaroos hopping across the 9th fairway. Steam rose from the grass, magpies sang, and a groundskeeper waved before disappearing into the mist. That moment summed it up — peace without pretense, comfort without fuss, and a stillness you can’t find in the city. It stays with you long after you’ve checked out.
FAQ
When’s the best time to visit Yarra Valley Lodge?
Autumn and spring are ideal — cool weather, glowing vineyards and fewer crowds at cellar doors.
Who’s the chef at Bella Restaurant?
Chef Steve Scambler leads the kitchen, creating fresh farm-to-table dishes that showcase the Yarra Valley.
Can I host corporate events or weddings at the Lodge?
Yes. The Lodge offers conference and wedding facilities with catering and group accommodation.
What comes with the guest rooms?
Each includes a private balcony, mini-fridge, flat-panel TV, free Wi-Fi and in-room dining.
How far is the Lodge from Melbourne?
About 45 km — roughly a 50-minute drive via the Eastern Freeway and Chirnside Park.
