Family-Friendly Adventures in Coldstream, Victoria!

Rochford Wines

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family day out at Rochford Wines, located in the scenic Yarra Valley, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. Known for its stunning vineyard vistas and family-friendly atmosphere, Rochford is a must-visit for those who appreciate good food and wine amidst nature.

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early and drive to Rochford Wines, located at 878-880 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream VIC. Parking is ample and free, making it easy for families to visit.

### Guided Tour & Tasting

Upon arrival, join the 10 AM guided tour which is perfect for families. Learn about the winemaking process in a fun and engaging way, tailored to keep both adults and kids entertained. Discover fascinating facts about grape varieties while exploring the lush vineyard. The tour concludes with a tasting session where adults can savor Rochford’s award-winning wines.

### Lunch at the Restaurant

Around noon, head to Rochford’s restaurant for a sumptuous meal. The menu features seasonal local produce with options that cater to all ages, including a special children’s menu. Enjoy your meal with a view over the vineyard.

### Afternoon Activities

Post-lunch, explore the expansive grounds of Rochford. Kids can enjoy outdoor activities like the family-friendly puzzle hunt that involves exploring the vineyards to solve clues. Meanwhile, adults can relax in the garden area or browse the on-site gift shop for local crafts and wines.

### Concerts and Events

Check Rochford’s calendar for any family events or concerts which are often held on weekends. These events are a great way to experience local culture and entertainment amid the picturesque settings of the Yarra Valley.

### Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon, taking with you not only bottles of fine wine but also memorable family moments amidst the beauty of Rochford Wines.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Why Visit?

Family Day Out at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, easily accessible by car just an hour"s drive from Melbourne via the Eastern Freeway and Maroondah Highway. Ample parking is available on-site, making it convenient for families.

Engaging Activities

Upon arrival, dive into the free chocolate tastings that greet you at the door, a perfect start to sweeten your day. The chocolaterie offers a captivating view of chocolate production through large viewing windows, where children can watch chocolatiers craft exquisite creations. Don’t miss out on the educational talks about chocolate-making processes, usually held mid-morning, providing both fun and learning.

Explore and Play

Post the chocolate exploration, head outdoors to enjoy the picturesque 40-acre estate. Kids can expend some energy at the play area while parents relax at the café, savoring coffee and panoramic views of the Yarra Valley. The sprawling gardens are perfect for a family stroll, and you might even spot some local wildlife!

Lunch and Ice Cream Delights

For lunch, the café offers a menu featuring local products, with options pleasing to both adults and kids. Highlight your meal’s end with a visit to the ice creamery, where over 48 flavors await to be sampled. Each ice cream is handcrafted on-site, boasting flavors from classic vanilla to adventurous wasabi!

Afternoon Wrap-up

Before heading home, stop by the gift shop where you can pick up some handcrafted chocolates or unique souvenirs. These treats will serve as a delicious reminder of your Yarra Valley outing.

Interesting Fact

The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery supports sustainability by using locally sourced ingredients and operating on solar energy, making your visit not only delightful but also eco-friendly!

Enjoy a "sweet" escape to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, where fun, education, and indulgence blend perfectly for a memorable family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dominique Portet Winery

Why Visit?

Nestled in the picturesque Yarra Valley, Dominique Portet Winery offers a delightful escape for families seeking a blend of wine culture and relaxation. Here’s a family-friendly itinerary for a memorable day at the winery:

### Morning Arrival

Start your journey early to make the most of your day. Dominique Portet is located about an hour"s drive from Melbourne. Take the Eastern Freeway and continue on the Maroondah Highway through the scenic towns of Lilydale and Healesville. The winery is easy to find and offers ample parking, making it convenient for families traveling with kids.

### Tour and Tasting

Upon arrival, join the 10:00 AM guided tour, where you’ll learn about the winery"s nine-generation legacy in winemaking, dating back to 18th century France. Kids will enjoy hearing stories about the family’s history and the winemaking process, tailored to be engaging for all ages.

### Barrel Room Experience

Explore the barrel room where the magic happens! Families can learn about the aging process and see where the wines mature before they’re ready for tasting.

### Lunch at the Bistro

Head to the on-site bistro for a family-friendly meal around noon. The menu offers dishes made from local, seasonal ingredients that pair wonderfully with their estate wines. There’s also a selection of non-alcoholic drinks and kids’ meals to cater to younger palates.

### Relax and Play

After lunch, take a stroll around the vineyards or relax in the picnic area while the kids play nearby. The open space is perfect for a game of frisbee or just enjoying the stunning valley views.

### Departure

Wrap up your visit by 2:00 PM to avoid the late afternoon rush and ensure a leisurely drive back to Melbourne. Before leaving, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop where you can purchase a bottle or two as a souvenir of your family day out in the Yarra Valley.

This day at Dominique Portet is not only a journey through the world of winemaking but also an opportunity for family bonding amidst the beauty of nature. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fergusson Winery

Why Visit?

Day Trip Itinerary to Fergusson Winery for a Family

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure to Fergusson Winery by driving through the picturesque Yarra Valley, approximately an hour’s drive from Melbourne. As you approach, enjoy the scenic vistas of rolling vineyards and lush landscapes.

10:00 AM - Vineyard Tour

Upon arrival, join the guided Vineyard Tour. It’s a great opportunity for the kids to learn about viticulture in a simple, engaging way. Discover the different grape varieties and the basics of how grapes transform into wine. Don’t forget to snap some family photos among the vines!

11:30 AM - Wine and Juice Tasting

Head to the tasting room where adults can sample Fergusson’s renowned Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. For the younger ones, grape juice tasting is a delightful treat. Learn about the flavors and aromas that make each variety unique.

12:30 PM - Lunch at the Winery Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at the winery’s restaurant, which offers dishes made from local produce. The menu often includes special meals for children, ensuring a satisfying meal for all ages.

2:00 PM - Family Activities

Post-lunch, partake in some family-oriented activities offered at the winery. During certain times of the year, Fergusson hosts grape stomping events – a messy, fun, and unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike!

3:30 PM - Leisure Time and Departure

Wind down your visit by exploring the gift shop, where you can purchase locally made crafts and bottles of wine to remember your day. By late afternoon, it’s time to head back, allowing the little ones to nap after an exciting day.

Throughout your visit, Fergusson Winery’s engaging blend of education, relaxation, and fun activities ensures a memorable family day out in one of Victoria’s most beautiful settings.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Blue Lotus Water Garden

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting family adventure at the Blue Lotus Water Garden, a floral paradise located in Yarra Junction, about a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. This stunning aquatic garden, sprawling over 14 acres, opens seasonally from late December to April, capturing the best of the summer blooms.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early to enjoy the cool morning air. Parking is plentiful and free, making it convenient for families. Upon entering, grab a garden map from the entrance. The Kids’ Trail map, designed specifically for children, is a fantastic way for the little ones to explore.

Lotus Lake Discovery

First, head to the Lotus Lake, a dazzling display of thousands of lotus flowers and lily pads. Teach the kids about the lotus flower’s significance in various cultures and its ability to flourish in muddy waters. The vibrant colors make a perfect backdrop for family photos.

Giant Amazon Waterlily Pavilion

Next, visit the Giant Amazon Waterlily Pavilion. Marvel at the gigantic lily pads, which can grow up to 3 meters in diameter. It’s a fun fact for the kids that these pads can support a significant amount of weight, though touching or stepping on them is not allowed for safety and preservation reasons.

Lunch Break

Around noon, enjoy a family picnic at one of the designated areas or grab a bite at the onsite café, offering refreshments and meals suitable for children.

Fairy Garden and Dragon Trail

Post-lunch, explore the enchanting Fairy Garden and follow the Dragon Trail, delighting in the sculptures and themed gardens designed to spark children’s imaginations.

Wrap Up at the Water Garden

Conclude your visit by relaxing near the serene water gardens. Enjoy spotting various bird species and the soothing sounds of waterfalls, a perfect end to a fun-filled family day.

Remember to check the weather beforehand and wear comfortable shoes, as there’s plenty to explore on foot in this lush, aquatic wonderland!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.