Warburton – Valley of Enchantment
LEAVE BEHIND THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF ORDINARY LIFE AND FOLLOW THE WINDING ROAD TO A PLACE WHERE MAGIC AND BEAUTY INVITE YOU TO REVITALISE BODY, MIND AND SOUL AND FIND YOUR OWN ADVENTURE.
Nestled amidst deep blue mountains and built up above the banks of the Yarra River, the township of Warburton is breathtakingly picturesque. The old-world charm of its vintage shop fronts, the graceful sweep of tall eucalypts and lush greenery, and the gentle rush of the earthy, sylvan waters evoke childhood stories of fairy folk and the magic of nature. Visitors come to soak up the tranquillity, experience the charisma of a thriving small town community, and enjoy the great outdoors.
SPENDING THE DAY OR PLANNING
A WEEKEND GETAWAY?
HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS FOR THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN WARBURTON.
EAT
For a small town, Warburton offers up a vibrant and varied food scene. Contemporary Australian cafe fare can be found at the likes of Cafe 3383, River View and Three Sugars Cafe, while Silva Coffee Roasters, tucked in behind the iconic waterwheel, provides a boutique coffee tasting experience.
Fancy a pizza? Head to Little Joe down the east end of town for a traditional woodfired pizza, or check out Warburton Village Pizza Cafe for an impressive range including gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. For a quick bite, you can’t go past the Warburton Bakery – pick up a pie or freshly made sandwich and head down to the river for a peaceful picnic.
Special mention goes to B. T. Dubs, a quirky, modern cafe with eye-catching decor, fabulously friendly waitstaff and a delicious menu covering old favourites with a fresh take. Staying for dinner? Babaji’s, the Belgrave-based South Indian dining experience, have recently opened up a sister restaurant in Warburton and are well worth the visit for authentic cuisine in a bright, colourful venue.
PLAY
There are so many ways to immerse yourself in the fun and adventure that Warburton offers, it would be impossible to cover it all here. Lazy days down by the river, leisurely strolls through parks and reserves, hiking and bike trails to get your blood pumping are just the beginning. Here are a few of our favourite activities for couples and families.
Hit the trail with a hire bike from Ride Time Yarra Valley. From standard mountain bikes to fully equipped electric mountain bikes, the expert staff at Ride Time will set you up with the perfect two-wheeler for your off-road adventure – be it a cruise down the Lilydale – Warburton Rail Trail or a multi-day bush trek. Take advantage of their Redwoods e-Bike Tours to get up close and personal with the magnificent Redwood Forest while extensive roadworks continue to prevent car access. Visit www.ridetimeyarravalley.com.au to make a booking or call 5966 9646 for more information.
Warburton Water World is the coolest summer hangout for families of all ages. Located at 20 Woods Point Road a few minutes east of the main town, the free-entry site offers an expansive water park, playspace and recreation facilities including BBQ and picnic areas and new toilet block. Parking is limited so plan accordingly. For more details including opening hours, check out yarraranges.vic.go.au
Head to Mt Donna Buang for a picnic and climb the 21 metre lookout tower for spectacular views ranging from Melbourne to the Cathedral Ranges. Explore the Rainforest Gallery, an elevated platform that lets you walk amongst the canopy of the majestic mountain ash and myrtle beech trees. Explore a range of bushwalking trails from short strolls to day-long hikes.
Looking to soak up the sun and enjoy a good book? The Wee Warbee Bookshop is a quaint and curious little store filled to the brim with new and secondhand books. While it may be a case of ‘organised chaos’, proprietor Peter has an uncanny knack for helping you find just what you’re looking for, with a vast literary knowledge and a mental catalogue of the shop’s stock.
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SLEEP
Live your getaway in the lap of luxury at one of the region’s gorgeous accommodation options.
Oscar’s on the Yarra is a gorgeous historic homestead with stunning views to the river across lush grassy lawns. Each room in the original 1930s guesthouse balances old-world charm with modern touches that bring convenience and comfort. Breakfast is included with your booking. www.oscarsontheyarra.com.au
Jump forward in time and experience a touch of mid-century elegance at the famous Warburton Motel – ‘The Warby’, as it’s fondly known. The ethos behind this lovingly restored motel is one of inclusion and diversity, embracing patrons of all walks of life. The emphasis is on relaxation, recreation and enjoyment of all that Warburton has to offer. www.warburtonmotel.com.au
Be inspired with a stay at The Canvas Barn, an exquisitely beautiful handcrafted space built on the bones of a old rustic barn.
Designed using eco-friendly refurbished materials, every detail has been thoughtfully and artistically crafted to delight and enchant. Couples, families and groups of up to 10 will find themselves at home in three bespoke accommodation spaces: the Canvas Barn itself, the Tiny Home, and the lovingly restored 1916-built Riverwood Cottage. www.thecanvasbarn.com.au
WARBURTON WATERWHEEL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
A trip to Warburton is not complete without a visit to the iconic waterwheel. Climb the stairs to the visitor information staff where friendly staff are available seven days a week to share their wealth of information on the history of Warburton and the best places to stay, eat and find your next adventure.
The centre also features an art gallery hosting pieces created by local artists, and a retail space stocked with a wide range of locally made handicrafts and artisan products.
Visit between 10 am – 4 pm, Monday to Sunday. 3400 Warburton Hwy, Warburton. 5966 9600.
