Where to Go in the Yarra Valley on ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day, held on 25 April each year, is a time of remembrance across Australia and New Zealand, marked by dawn services, quiet reflection and a slower pace of the day. If you’re planning a gentle escape from the city, the Yarra Valley offers a peaceful countryside setting that suits the reflective mood of the holiday. With scenic landscapes, cosy cellar doors and relaxed dining experiences, it’s an ideal destination for a calm and meaningful day trip.

What is ANZAC Day?

ANZAC Day is observed on 25 April each year to honour the service and sacrifice of members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps and all Australians and New Zealanders who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions. 

The date marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I in 1915. Although the campaign was challenging and resulted in heavy losses, the courage, resilience and mateship shown by the soldiers became a defining part of both nations’ identities. Today, ANZAC Day is a time for remembrance, reflection and gratitude, with dawn services, marches and community events held across the country.

Visit Yarra Ranges Regional Museum

• Location: 35-37 Castella St, Lilydale VIC 3140, Australia
• Opening hours:
  • 10 AM – 4 PM from Wednesday to Saturday
  • Closed on Monday and Tuesday
• Price range: free entry

Opened in 2011, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum is a modern cultural space dedicated to sharing the rich history and heritage of the Yarra Ranges region. Located in Lilydale, the museum features rotating exhibitions, educational programs and a collection of more than 13,000 cultural objects connected to local communities and stories. Its interactive exhibitions and contemporary design make it a meaningful indoor activity during ANZAC Day in Yarra Valley.

Ride the historic Puffing Billy Railway

• Location: 1 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave VIC 3160
• Opening hours:
  • 9 AM – 4 PM from Monday to Thursday
  • 9 AM – 4:30 PM from Friday to Sunday
• Price range: from $31

One of Victoria’s most iconic attractions, Puffing Billy Railway offers a nostalgic journey through the forests and hills of the Dandenong Ranges aboard a historic steam train. Dating back to the early 1900s, the beautifully preserved railway takes passengers through towering mountain ash trees and scenic countryside, creating a cosy and memorable experience during winter. Families especially love the open-sided carriages and classic train atmosphere, while the surrounding villages and cafés make it easy to turn the trip into a full-day adventure near Yarra Valley.

Casual restaurant for your dining experience in Yarra Valley

Locale Restaurant at De Bortoli Yarra Valley

• Location: 58 Pinnacle Ln, Dixons Creek VIC 3775
• Opening hours:
  • Monday, Thursday and Friday: 12 – 3 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8:30-10:30 AM; 12-3 PM and 5-8 PM
• Best items to try: Pork belly, Tiramisu, Barramundi
• Price range: $80 – 100 per person 

Locale Restaurant brings together warm Italian hospitality, seasonal Yarra Valley produce and estate-grown wines in an elegant countryside setting. Inspired by the De Bortoli family’s Italian heritage, the restaurant is known for its house-made pasta, authentic risotto and ingredient-driven dishes designed for long, relaxed dining experiences. Large windows overlooking the vines and rolling hills create a beautiful backdrop for a cosy lunch or dinner in the Yarra Valley.

Harper and Ivy Cafe

• Location: 25 Bell St, Yarra Glen VIC 3777 
• Opening hours:
  • Wednesday: 7:30 – 11:30 AM
  • Thursday and weekends: 8 AM – 3 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM – 3 PM and 4-6 PM
• Best items to try: Chilli scrambled eggs, Japanese pancake, burgers
• Price range: $20 – 40 per person 

Harper and Ivy Cafe is a charming local favourite in Yarra Glen, offering a relaxed brunch and café experience with a warm country atmosphere. Known for its fresh seasonal menu, quality coffee and welcoming service, the café is a great stop for a slow winter morning in Yarra Valley. Its cosy interiors and laid-back setting make it popular for casual breakfasts, brunches and coffee breaks while exploring the region.

DiVino Ristorante at e’STELLAR estate

• Location: 1568 Melba Hwy, Dixons Creek VIC 3775
• Opening hours:
  • Wednesday, Thursday and Suday: 11:30 AM – 4 PM
  • Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 4 PM
  • Monday and Tuesday: Closed
• Best items to try: Pawn pizza, duck prosciutto, crab risotto
• Price range: $40 – 120 per person 

DiVino Ristorante at e’STELLAR estate offers a relaxed Italian dining experience with Yarra Valley views. The restaurant combines authentic Northern Italian flavours with locally sourced seasonal ingredients, featuring house-made pasta, woodfired pizzas and slow-cooked dishes crafted by chef Luca Radaelli. Its glass-walled dining room overlooks the surrounding vines and hills, creating a warm and scenic setting that feels especially inviting during winter. Paired with estate wines and a welcoming atmosphere, DiVino is a beautiful stop for long lunches and cosy dinners in Yarra Valley. 

Relax at Flowerdale Estate after your day out

After a day exploring the Yarra Valley’s local restaurants and cultural attractions, slow down and relax at Flowerdale Estate. Surrounded by peaceful countryside views, the estate offers a comfortable and elegant retreat just over an hour from Melbourne. Guests can enjoy cosy accommodation, seasonal dining at Gracie’s Restaurant and quiet evenings by the fireplace, making it a lovely place to end an ANZAC Day escape in the region.

Book your spot at Flowerdale Estate now!