Australia by Car

The Yarra Valley is where wine production in Victoria first found itself. That was in 1838, when the first vines were planted, and today more than 55 wineries have established themselves in the beautiful lush expanses of the Valley. Just 60 kilometres north east of Melbourne, it has turned into a prime destination for wine connoisseurs, culinary fanatics or anyone after a relaxing break in a stunning environment.

The valley is only 25 kilometres long, and measures 15 kilometres wide at its widest point, so everything is within easy reach of itself. The largest town is Healesville, with a population of about 5000 people, and this is where most people choose to stay. If there the Healesville Sanctuary is worth a look if you want to experience some Aussie wildlife!

A smaller place that will appeal to history buffs as its the site of Victorias first vintage is Yering, a small parish in the heart of the valley. If you want to treat yourself then the Chateau Yering is an opulent five star hotel where you can indulge all your senses!

A great time to visit the Yarra Valley is in February, when the Grape Grazing Festival is on- a festival that not only celebrates vintage but also the cultures and traditions of the Yarra. This article will give you more ideas of things to do in the Yarra.

A rental car is a comfortable and safe way to see the Yarra Valley. The rolling hills criss crossed with perfect clear rivers make for great driving country, and there are lots of interesting spots you can stop off and visit, such as Victorias highest waterfall, Stevenson Falls. The region has its cool climate to thank for its wine productivity, so remember to pack some warm clothes!

Twenty minutes south of the Western Australian capital Perth the port city of Fremantle sits at the mouth of the Swan River. Its a city that operates on two levels- on the first it is the busiest and most important port in the state, on the second it is a cosmopolitan, funky urban centre that seamlessly blends the old and the new to create a timeless and attractive place to visit.

Its long and rich history has been preserved in many vestiges of heritage all over the city. Just on a casual walk through the suburbs you will spot stunning examples of mid Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and there are numerous museums where you can further delve into the history. Highly recommended is the WA maritime museum, whose remarkable collection of artefacts includes a reconstruction of the Dutch ship Batavia, which sank here in 1629.

There is a definite bohemian air to Fremantle, all the shops and cafes have a very creative edge and its no surprise that some of the countries biggest bands have come from here. Very skilled buskers straddle the street corners, and live music is a stalwart form of entertainment in the pubs and clubs. For a more indepth look at Fremantle have a read of this article.

If you’re looking for a souvenir, some filler for your picnic basket or just want an interesting and fun experience then head to the Fremantle Markets on South Terrace. These indoor markets are located on the ‘cappuccino strip’, so theres lots of cafes to rest your shop-weary legs in! They contain over 150 stalls with goods and food from all over the world- an intriguing cultural experience.

To top off your trip to Fremantle have a meal and a drink in the Little Creatures Brewery. This micro brewery lets you choose the beer you want to drink out of the actual vat it was brewed in! Built in an old boat shed, theres lots of table room and it always attracts a crowd. Travelling around Fremantle is as easy as making a free online booking with car hire!