Gabriella Vukman
Are you looking for budget-friendly things to do this summer? Here is a list of Yarra Ranges’ top destinations for affordable fun.
Collect a nature trail sheet from the Visitor Information Centre at the Waterwheel in Warburton and enjoy searching for the 30 animal plaque rubbings along the 5km riverside walk.
Pack a Picnic and head up to Millgrove Lookout on Dee rd for some breathtaking 360 views of the Valley bed.
For a BBQ, picnic tables, Cafes and a playground, visit the Yarra Junction Reserve. The oval and cricket pitch also provide a fantastic opportunity for some Christmas family sport so don’t forget your wickets and footy!
Get your dose of summer exercise at Belgrave Lake Park. This destination is decked out with fitness equipment, an off-lead dog area, basketball half court and lake walking tracks. A water pump, BBQ and picnic shelter are also features of the Park.
Enjoy rolling hills and farmlife scenery along the Warburton Trail or switch it up for some ferny foliage views along the O’shannassy Aqueduct Trail.
Visit one of the largest model railways and miniature worlds in Australia at Emerald Lake’s Model Railway.
Lysterfield Lake poses a terrific opportunity for canoeing, kayaking, sailing and has picnic areas, biking and walking trails.
Take a scenic stroll in the Alfred Nicholas Gardens located in Sherbrooke. Walking trails wind through this scenic, wooded garden park that also features a boathouse, waterfalls and islands.
Slap sunscreen and some swimmers on to visit the Local Swimming Pools. Belgrave, Healesville and Olinda outdoor pools and Monbulk Aquatic Centre make for a great way to exercise and keep cool.
Birdsland Reserve’s walking trails and picnic areas are not its only attraction. The reserve also houses mountain biking trails for avid hill bikers. The daragon trail also connects trail users to Lysterfield Lake Park.
View the local wildlife as well as visit walking, and bike-riding biking trails at Maroondah Reservoir Park in Healesville. From walking the dam wall to relaxing in picnic areas, this reservoir park has much to offer.
Drink in the stupendous views or enjoy the walking, riding and mountain biking trails at Burkes Lookout. This spot makes for a terrific afternoon with the family.
Keep cool at the Seville and Warburton water parks. These watery oases are free and are great opportunities for family outings.
