Things to Do Over Summer in the Yarra Valley 2025/26
Summer Activities at Glenlowren
Walks Around the Farm
Guests can take relaxed walks through the gardens, along the farm tracks and around the dam. It is a peaceful way to enjoy the landscape and the wildlife.
Games on the Multi-Sports Court
Challenge your group to a friendly game of basketball or pickleball, or work on your tennis skills using the hit-up wall. The court is suitable for a range of casual games and is popular with families and groups.
Fishing at the Dam
Guests are welcome to fish in the dam (please bring your own gear). It is a quiet place to unwind, especially in the late afternoon.
Cooking with Glenlowren’s Summer Produce
The kitchen garden produces well in summer. Guests can pick seasonal fruit and vegetables, including apples, berries, tomatoes, capsicums and herbs, and use them in meals during their stay.
Outdoor Spaces to Relax
Each accommodation option has its own outdoor area, offering space to sit back with a glass of local wine and enjoy the long evening light.
Food and Wine Experiences
Stag Lane Distillery – Open daily
Located only a few minutes from Glenlowren, Stag Lane Distillery produces small-batch spirits using local ingredients. It is an easy stop for tastings or gifts to take home, especially if you are already visiting the Chocolaterie next door.
Zoncello, Healesville’s Newest Restaurant
Healesville’s dining scene continues to grow, and Zoncello is the newest arrival. Expect a relaxed yet refined menu that celebrates local produce – a fresh addition to the valley’s food landscape.
Wine and Gourmet Trails
Summer is the ideal season to explore cellar doors with outdoor decks and garden views. Sample cool-climate wines at Mandala Wines, Steels Gate or Jaydon Ong, then switch things up with a gin tasting at Four Pillars Distillery or a beer flight at Watts River Brewing.
Sweet Treats
Cool down with a scoop (or two) of handmade gelato at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, always a hit with families.
Download our Food & Wine Lovers itinerary for more recommendations.
Markets and Festive Highlights
Yarra Glen Twilight Market – Saturday 13 December 2025
Held at the racecourse, this twilight market brings together artisan goods, local produce and live entertainment – perfect for picking up last-minute Christmas gifts or enjoying an evening outdoors.
Music and Performance
MSO Ensemble Concert at TarraWarra – Saturday, 6 December 2025
Enjoy the sounds of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in an intimate regional performance, showcasing classical favourites in a stunning setting. | Learn More
Live Music at Yarrawood Estate – Every Saturday and Sunday
Free acoustic sessions overlooking the vines from 12:30pm to 4pm. A relaxed way to spend a summer afternoon. | Learn More
The Nutcracker at The Memo – Saturday, 6 December
This beloved ballet returns to Healesville’s Memo Hall, bringing a touch of Christmas magic to the valley. | Learn More
Pick Your Own Fruit
Summer is harvest season, and there’s no better way to experience it than by picking your own fruit straight from the tree.
- CherryHill Orchards – Cherry picking season runs from late November to early January, with orchard picnics and cool drinks under the trees.
- Blue Hills Berries & Cherries – Berries, stone fruit and family-friendly activities through December and January.
Nature and Scenic Experiences
Hot Air Ballooning
See the valley at sunrise as you float quietly above the vineyards. Still summer mornings make for beautiful flying conditions, often ending with a champagne breakfast at a nearby winery. Global Ballooning Australia and Go Wild Ballooning
Alowyn Gardens
Located in Yarra Glen, Alowyn Gardens is just a short drive from Glenlowren. These beautifully designed gardens feature themed sections, shady walkways, and a wisteria arch that’s perfect for summer photos. Stop by the café for a light lunch or browse the nursery for plants to take home.
Learn More
The Black Spur Drive
Take a scenic drive through the mountain ash forests and lush ferns between Healesville and Marysville – one of Victoria’s most beautiful road trips.
Download our Gardens & Farms Itinerary for more recommendations.
Wildlife and Wellness
Healesville Sanctuary – Open daily year-round
Get close to Australia’s native animals including koalas, kangaroos, wombats and platypus in a bushland setting.
Wellness at Balgownie Estate – Summer Schedule
Balgownie’s wellness program offers a mix of mindful and restorative experiences for summer visitors. Choose from Morning Flow Yoga (Saturdays, 9am), Yin & Vin sessions (Sundays, 4pm), or Sound Healing overlooking the vines (selected Fridays). Guests can also explore the region on two wheels with bike hire available on-site. Learn more about Balgownie Wellness.
Download our Nature Lovers Itinerary for more recommendations.
Travel Tip
Summer days can be warm, so plan outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon and keep the middle of the day for long lunches and cool cellar doors. Don’t forget your hat, sunscreen and water bottle.
Plan Your Summer Escape at Glenlowren
Summer is our busiest season. If you’re considering a Yarra Valley getaway, we recommend booking early to secure your preferred dates. Our three unique accommodations – The Farmstead (sleeps up to 21), The Nissen Hut (sleeps 4), and Settler’s Cottage (sleeps 2) – each offer something special for summer stays.
