Healesville accommodation from AU$160

History

Named after a former leader of Victoria, Richard Heales, Healesville grew as a town in the 1860s on the back of the Gold Rush. The town has been featured in a number of films and TV shows.

Things to do

Nature lovers can spend long days exploring the beautiful surroundings, with mountains, hills, fields, valleys, rivers, and farms to enjoy. There are a number of vineyards and wineries that make for a pleasant excursion, and you can also taste an assortment of locally-produced wines and cheeses. Visit Mount Rael Lodge for some incredible views over the lush landscapes. The Maroondah Reservoir is within easy reach, and there you can enjoy a picnic or BBQ, wander through the lovely gardens, and admire superb views. Badger Weir Park is another top outdoor spot that boasts a selection of great walking trails. Visit the Healesville Sanctuary to see many animals, birds, and reptiles in partially open enclosures and ride on the scenic Sunday tourist train.

Shopping and dining

The main shopping and dining hotspots are located along the green and leafy Nicholson Street. There’s a large supermarket and a shopping centre, as well as small specialty shops and other stores. There is a good choice of restaurants, or you can join the locals and head for a fabulous meal at the local Healesville hotel, which sources locally-produced fruit and vegetables grown bio- dynamically nearby and which has recently had a makeover. You can also head to the Healesville Sanctuary at the Zoo, or take a fab picnic hamper with you to enjoy in the Zoo grounds. For something completely different, head to the Werribee open plain zoo, which is about an hour from Healesville, and go on an African Safari. If you haven’t been to the Serengeti and long for the experience, Werribee Zoo is about as close as you can get to the real thing. You’ll spot lions and tigers, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras and hyenas.

Getting here and around

The easiest way to get here is with a cheap flight to Melbourne. The area is well-connected by public transport and there are lots of comfortable and inexpensive Healesville hotels for a perfect stay.