Sips, Stays And Stunning Scenes: How To Make The Most Of A Trip To The Yarra Valley

Craving a getaway but don't have the time, funds, or energy for anything more than a drive out of town? You're in luck, it turns out you don’t need a plane ticket to feel worlds away from the hustle of Melbourne, just a short drive to the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel will do it. 

Sitting pretty in the heart of Yarra Glen, this heritage charmer wraps up everything you love about a mini escape into one address: elevated pub classics, local drops, cosy rooms and those leisurely country-weekend vibes that hit the minute you step out of the car.

The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel welcomes cheeky weekenders, family diners and corporate teams alike, making it ridiculously easy to play tourist in your own state.

Eat: Elevated Pub Classics That Go Big On Comfort

Image Credit: Yarra Valley Grand | Supplied

Food lovers will find plenty to savour at the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel's restaurant, which is celebrated for its hearty and flavourful menu featuring pub classics done exceptionally well. House favourites include generous parmas and steak nights that keep locals coming back week-on-week. 

The menu places a strong emphasis on fresh local produce, ensuring every plate satisfies with the Yarra Valley’s culinary bounty. Families are well looked after, too—Sundays are all about slow lunches, kids’ meals and soaking up the out-of-town vibes before heading home.

Sip: Local Flavours and Relaxed Drinks

Image Credit: Yarra Valley Grand | Supplied

You’re in the Yarra Valley, so naturally the drinks list leans into the region’s strengths. The Front Bar boasts an extensive selection of local wines, beers and signature cocktails crafted to complement the food menu and the surrounding vineyard landscape.

Pull up a stool for that old-school country pub feel, complete with warm wood, friendly bar staff and the gentle hum of locals and visitors swapping stories. For some fresh air, take your drinks out to the beer garden, where you can settle in for golden hour, watch the kids play in the on-site playground and stretch one drink into an entire afternoon without anyone batting an eye.

Check In: A Heritage Stay With Modern Comforts

Image Credit: Yarra Valley Grand | Supplied

The venue's accommodation retains the charm of the 1888 heritage‑listed building, while offering modern comforts in each room. Guests can enjoy individually decorated rooms and suites, with some with balconies offering scenic views of the valley. Bookings include the essentials—on-site parking and continental breakfast—with thoughtful extras like comfy socks and an iron also kept in the room for those last minute dinner reservations, offering an ideal mini escape from city traffic and tram bells.

Midweek, the Yarra Valley Grand becomes a cosy retreat for travellers seeking time to write, read or simply unwind. When the weekend hits, the atmosphere livens up—guests gather for pre-dinner drinks downstairs, followed by a short wobble back upstairs to bed. Whenever you choose to visit, the range of room options has couples, families, bigger groups and solo travellers covered. 

Scenes: Embrace The Yarra Valley’s Natural Beauty

Image Credit: Yarra Valley Grand | Supplied

Though the venue sits at the centre of an acclaimed wine region, guests have easy access to some of the Valley’s serene natural attractions, without having to spend a dime. Take a stroll around Yarra Glen or enjoy the fresh country air in nearby parklands and trails, all just minutes from the your doorstep. The scenery invites you to slow down, take a deep breath and, of course, moo at a cow or two as you drive past the many paddocks in the area. 

Work: Off-Site Meetings And Group Getaways

Image Credit: Yarra Valley Grand | Supplied

Planning a group retreat or corporate off-site? The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel ticks all the boxes: character-filled function spaces, comfy on-site rooms and top-notch food and drinks to keep the company fuelled. Here, your team escapes the generic conference rooms of the CBD to breathe fresh air, embrace a change of pace and truly connect between sessions. 

From corporate team-building events to celebratory family gatherings, a range of flexible spaces and tailored food and beverage packages are ready and waiting to help you plan a smooth retreat.

If you’ve been putting off a break because it feels like too much effort, let this be your sign. The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel wraps up the best of a regional getaway—delicious bites, local drinks, cushy rooms and stunning surrounds—into one easy package. Close enough for a spontaneous escape, but far enough for a proper reset.

Ready to escape the everyday? Plan your stay at the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel to discover the perfect balance of work, play and relaxation.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Yarra Valley Grand Hotel and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.