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On the 12th August 2024 we decided a couple days before hand when we saw that it was going to be 18 degrees and sunny that we go for a drive to Steavenson Falls in Marysville, which is a 2 hour drive from Melbourne just past Healesville.
On the way back we stopped at Maroondah Dam, it’s only 1 hour and 18 minutes to the dam, don’t forget to stop at Selovers Lookout on the way to Marysville as it is easier to stop in on the way up then on the way home.
There is no playground at Maroondah Dam even though the signs around the park say there is one, we only found the remains of where we thought the playground used to be.
There is plenty of open space to have picnics and bbq facilities with sheltered seating and plenty of outdoor picnic tables to sit at, there were portable toilets when we stopped in as the toilets block were upgraded but were still fenced off, so we couldn’t use them. There are steps you can walk up to the top of the hill or a gravel path that also goes up to the walk across the dam. We didn’t go over the bridge that is up at the end of the wall dam, we saw a couple walk across so there must be walk you can do. We did the steps on the way up and on the way back the gravel path.
I can imagine that during spring and summer when the weather is nice that it gets busy up here, there is plenty of shade from beautiful big trees and lots of space for kids to run around and kick a foot ball, soccer or cricket.
Exploring the Beauty of Maroondah Dam, Victoria
Nestled in the heart of the Yarra Ranges, Maroondah Dam is one of Victoria’s most serene and picturesque spots, perfect for nature lovers and day-trippers alike. Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, near the township of Healesville, this hidden gem offers a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
A Perfect Day Out
Maroondah Dam is more than just a water reservoir. It’s a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and beautifully manicured gardens. The expansive lawns are perfect for picnics, making it a great spot to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with family or friends. You’ll find shaded picnic areas equipped with BBQ facilities, so all you need to bring is your food and a sense of adventure.
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Scenic Walks and Lookouts
One of the main attractions at Maroondah Dam is the scenic walking trails. The 3-kilometre circuit trail takes you through vibrant eucalyptus forests, over the dam wall, and up to the lookout points, which offer breathtaking views of the reservoir and the surrounding Yarra Ranges National Park. The path is relatively easy, suitable for families, and rewards hikers with panoramic views and a refreshing sense of tranquillity.
For those seeking a longer hike, there are additional walking trails that lead deeper into the national park, offering the chance to explore more of the region’s native flora and fauna. You might even spot some local wildlife, including lyrebirds, wombats, and kangaroos.
The Historic Dam Wall
Completed in 1927, Maroondah Dam has a rich history as a key component of Melbourne’s water supply. The dam wall itself is an impressive sight, towering over the valley below and standing as a testament to early 20th-century engineering. Walking across the dam wall is a must – the sheer size of the structure, combined with the scenic views, makes for a memorable experience.
Gardens and Wildlife
In spring, the gardens surrounding the dam come alive with colourful blooms, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or photography. The area is also home to an abundance of birdlife, including kookaburras, cockatoos, and crimson rosellas. The peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the sounds of the bush, makes Maroondah Dam a perfect destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
This property offers a pool for you to enjoy during your next holiday
A Gateway to the Yarra Valley
Maroondah Dam is conveniently located near the Yarra Valley, making it a great addition to any trip to the region. After exploring the dam, visitors can head into Healesville to enjoy local wineries, cafes, or a visit to Healesville Sanctuary.
Tips for Visitors
- Parking: There is plenty of parking available at the dam, with easy access to the picnic areas and walking trails.
- Facilities: BBQ facilities and toilets are available, making it a comfortable spot for a day out.
- Best Time to Visit: Maroondah Dam is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and vibrant foliage.
- What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a picnic, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a scenic hike, or a spot to enjoy a picnic, Maroondah Dam offers something for everyone. Its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and accessibility makes it one of Victoria’s must-visit destinations. If you’re planning a trip to the Yarra Ranges or the Yarra Valley, be sure to include Maroondah Dam in your itinerary for a refreshing and scenic experience.
Selovers Lookout
Selovers Lookout, located in the scenic Yarra Ranges of Victoria, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding forested landscape and the distant mountains. Perched high above the Maroondah Reservoir, this vantage point provides visitors with an unforgettable experience, perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts. With its tranquil setting and easy access via walking trails, Selovers Lookout is an ideal spot to relax, take in the natural beauty, and enjoy a peaceful moment amidst the serene wilderness.
Enjoy swimming in this spa on your next holiday
Here are some of the top attractions around Maroondah Dam:
1. Healesville Sanctuary
Located just a short drive from Maroondah Dam, Healesville Sanctuary offers an opportunity to get up close with native Australian wildlife. From koalas and kangaroos to platypuses and emus, this sanctuary is a must-visit for animal lovers.
2. Badger Weir Picnic Area
Nestled in the Yarra Ranges National Park, the Badger Weir Picnic Area is known for its peaceful environment and lush fern-filled surroundings. With walking tracks and picnic facilities, it’s a great place to relax or go for a stroll through the forest.
3. Yarra Valley Wineries
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s premier wine regions, and several vineyards are located just a short drive from Maroondah Dam. Visitors can tour local wineries, sample world-class wines, and enjoy gourmet food at nearby cellar doors.
4. Healesville Town
The charming town of Healesville offers an array of boutique shops, local cafes, and artisanal products. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee or enjoy lunch after visiting the dam or sanctuary.
5. Mount Donna Buang
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Mount Donna Buang is a nearby mountain that offers stunning panoramic views, nature trails, and a chance to enjoy snow activities in winter.
6. Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
If you have a sweet tooth, the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery is the perfect stop. It offers delicious handmade chocolates, gourmet treats, and a scenic spot to enjoy dessert with views of the valley.
7. Black Spur Drive
This scenic drive, located near Maroondah Dam, winds through towering mountain ash trees and lush rainforests. It’s one of the most picturesque drives in Victoria and a popular route for photographers and nature lovers.
8. Toolangi State Forest
Offering hiking trails and picnic spots, Toolangi State Forest is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the Yarra Ranges. It’s also home to the towering Kalatha Giant, one of the tallest trees in the state.
These attractions make the Maroondah Dam area a rich destination for both nature and culture, ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.
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Towns Near Maroondah Dam to Explore
Here are the nearest towns to Maroondah Dam:
- Healesville – The closest town and main gateway to the dam
- Yarra Glen – Approximately 15 km west
- Marysville – Around 35 km northeast
- Warburton – About 40 km southeast
- Lilydale – Roughly 30 km southwest
These towns are great for exploring the Yarra Valley region before or after visiting Maroondah Reservoir Park.
Explore this property for your next holiday.
Tours and Activities:
These are my picks for tours and activities in the area, the links will take you directly to the booking site where I receive a small commission if you book the tour this does not alter the price as the commission comes out of the price from the booking site. I love travelling and providing information to help others maximize their vacations so by booking through my links you help support me to keep providing this information for free and without ads.
Lake Mountain Snow Trip including Yarra Valley Chocolaterie from Melbourne
View on Viator.com Lake Mountain Snow Trip including Yarra Valley Chocolaterie from Melbourne
Trade sandy beaches for snowy mountains on this full-day tour to the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort from Melbourne. Enjoy free time to visit the magnificent Steavenson Falls or make the most of the snow with different activities available, such as skiing lessons, and toboggan runs (extra costs apply). The trip also passes through the Yarra Valley with a stop at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery.
Healesville Sanctuary General Entry Ticket
View on Viator.com Healesville Sanctuary General Entry Ticket
Come face-to-face with Australia’s wild and wonderful creatures at the Healesville Sanctuary, a refuge specializing in native Aussie wildlife. With your general entry ticket valid all day, you can spend as much time as you want exploring the zoo and marveling over koalas, dingoes, wombats, wallabies and kangaroos. That’s not all: learn how Healesville was the first place in the world to breed a platypus in captivity; watch a spectacular display of birds of prey and parrots; and peek behind-the-scenes at the animal hospital.
Puffing Billy And Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour
View on Viator.com Puffing Billy And Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour
Experience the scenic Yarra Valley on the Puffing Billy train. This full-day trip takes you through the Dandenong Ranges to Emerald Lake, the Healesville Sanctuary Zoo, and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. At the last stop you can enjoy free samples and chocolate shopping. This trip starts and ends near Southern Cross Station in the Melbourne CBD.
Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour with Healesville Sanctuary
View on Viator.com Yarra Valley Wildlife & Wine Day Tour with Healesville Sanctuary
Discover Australia’s wildlife and wines on a full-day tour to Healesville Sanctuary and the Yarra Valley. Depart Melbourne and head to Healesville Sanctuary where you get close views of native animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and emus. Continue your scenic drive to the Yarra Valley and arrive at a vineyard for lunch accompanied by a glass of wine. Afterward, tour the winery before moving on to De Bortoli Winery for a wine and cheese tasting.
Healesville Sanctuary And Phillip Island Wildlife Bus Tour
View on Viator.com Healesville Sanctuary And Phillip Island Wildlife Bus Tour
Skip the hassle of driving or navigating public transport and enjoy two of Victoria’s greatest attractions: Healesville Sanctuary and the Phillip Island penguin parade. This full-day tour from Melbourne takes you down the coast in a comfortable air-conditioned bus and gives you time to explore Healesville Sanctuary at your leisure before heading to the Dobbies Centre and Phillip Island.
VIP Sanctuary Tour at Healesville Sanctuary – excl. entry
View on Viator.com VIP Sanctuary Tour at Healesville Sanctuary – excl. entry
Experience Healesville Sanctuary like a VIP on a small-group tour where you’ll explore the beautiful bushland setting of Healesville Sanctuary at a relaxed pace and get the opportunity to learn more about kangaroos and other unique Australian wildlife from your own private ranger. This tour includes behind the scenes elements and insights, plus reserved seating at the Spirits of the Sky, free-flight, bird presentation.
[Private Tour] Healesville Sanctuary Wildlife & Puffing Billy Steam Train
View on Viator.com [Private Tour] Healesville Sanctuary Wildlife & Puffing Billy Steam Train
Cover two regions of Victoria on this full-day tour from Melbourne. Explore one of the most sustainable native parks in Australia, Healesville Sanctuary. See koalas and kangaroos, and unique species such as platypus. Next, jump aboard a historic steam train, the Puffing Billy. Finish your day by winding through mountain ranges, temperate rainforest and fern gullies.
Shore Excursion-Healesville-Sanctuary-Private-Group- Max 7 PAX -Yarra Valley
View on Viator.com Shore Excursion-Healesville-Sanctuary-Private-Group- Max 7 PAX -Yarra Valley
Make the most of your time in port in Melbourne as you escape the city for a full-day tour of the Yarra Valley. Enjoy a close encounter with iconic Aussie creatures like koalas, kangaroos and emus at the Healesville Sanctuary, then drive to the summit of Mt Donna Buang for a spectacular view over the Yarra Valley. After a treetop walk through the rain forest, indulge in wine tasting at the Wild Cattle Creek Estate before heading back to port.
Places To Get Food
- Monroe’s Burgers & Beers
- The Laneway Healesville
- My Little Kitchen Cafe & Bar
- Watts River Cafe and Store
- RSL Healesville
- Sideshow Burgers Healesville
- Herd
- The Bodhi Tree Restaurant
- No.7 Healesville
- Sanctuary House Restaurant and Bar
- Healesville Thai Kitchen
Accommodation
These are my picks for accommodation in the area, the links will take you directly to the booking site where I receive a small commission if you book and stay, this does not alter the price as the commission comes out of the price from the booking site. I love travelling and providing information to help others maximize their vacations so by booking through my links you help support me to keep providing this information for free and without ads.
Railway Parade, on the Warburton Trail
View on Expedia.com.au Railway Parade, on the Warburton Trail
Escape to luxury and comfort at our near new accommodation. This sleek and modern home offers a truly indulgent stay with its well-appointed amenities and spacious rooms. Unwind in the relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring the nearby attractions.
With a fully appointed kitchen, 2 modern bathrooms, 4 bedrooms, and an additional living area with a sofa bed, our accommodation can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests. Stay in climate-controlled comfort with ducted heating, Evap cooling, and 3 split systems. Two smart TVs with Netflix are available for quiet nights at home.
Yarra Glen Oasis: 4-Bedroom Home with Pool & Stunning Valley Views
View on Expedia.com.au Yarra Glen Oasis: 4-Bedroom Home with Pool & Stunning Valley Views
Bedrooms: Four cozy, tastefully decorated bedrooms with plenty of natural light, quality linens, and comfortable beds to ensure a restful night’s sleep.
Living Areas: An open-plan living and dining area with large windows that invite the scenic landscape indoors. Whether you’re relaxing on the plush sofas or enjoying a meal at the dining table, you’ll have panoramic views that make every moment special.
Kitchen: Fully equipped with modern appliances, ample counter space, and everything you need to prepare gourmet meals or a quick snack.
Badger House – Stunning Entertainer + Fire
View on Expedia.com.au Badger House – Stunning Entertainer + Fire
When it comes to luxurious, countryside accommodation, Badger House will impress. This cleverly designed, generous home flaunts four bedrooms + a flexi-lounge or 5th sofa-bedroom, 4 bathrooms, modern furnishings, open plan living, expansive alfresco with outdoor BBQ kitchen, a trio of drink fridges, and a state-of-the-art kitchen making it the perfect place for a group getaway or family retrea
Offers a beautiful space for a family getaway or a romantic holiday for two.
View on Expedia.com.au Offers a beautiful space for a family getaway or a romantic holiday for two.
About Our House – built in 1910 and recently renovated. The Gardener’s Cottage offers a beautiful space for space for a family getaway, couples retreat or a romantic holiday for two. Come and stay!
Located only 1 minute drive from the Main Street in Healesville, right on the hill giving guest amazing views over the valley towards Mount St Leonards. Our property is set in over half an acre of cottage gardens and lawns with plenty of space to sit back and relax!
Sol Yarra Valley Barrel Sauna Spa Urban List
View on Expedia.com.au Sol Yarra Valley Barrel Sauna Spa Urban List
Along with a garden, this holiday home has barbecues and free self-parking. WiFi in public areas is free.
Essential Packing Checklist
The links will take you directly to the Amazon site where I receive a small commission if you buy the product, this does not alter the price as the commission comes out of the price from Amazon. I love travelling and providing information to help others maximize their vacations so by buying through my links you help support me to keep providing this information for free and without ads.
Click on this link to see my packing list
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Healesville worth a visit?
Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or solo, Healesville is a popular destination known for its versatility and wide array of experiences. If you haven’t explored it yet, Healesville should definitely be on your itinerary for your next Yarra Valley trip.
How long to spend at Healesville Sanctuary?
It’s an ideal spot for families and children to visit, with a visit typically taking around half a day.
Can you feed kangaroos at Healesville?
There’s a great variety of animals, and the easy-to-follow map and signage make navigating a breeze. Feeding the kangaroos was a trip highlight, closely followed by the platypus exhibit. We were lucky enough to capture an amazing video of a platypus swimming underwater.
How to get to the zoo in Healesville?
Head out of Melbourne via the Eastern Freeway, then continue east on Maroondah Highway, passing through Ringwood and Lilydale until you reach Healesville. Just past the town center, turn right onto Badger Creek Road and follow the signs directing you to Healesville Sanctuary.
Does Healesville get snow?
Some locals recall significant snowfall in the Healesville area back in 1986, though the ‘Mountain Views’ reported only a heavy fall on Mt Donna Buang, accompanied by a photo. Higher elevations throughout the Yarra Valley are familiar with snowfalls, offering a memorable experience for both residents and visitors.
What is Healesville Sanctuary known for?
Discover a bushland sanctuary for Australian wildlife, just an hour from Melbourne in the picturesque Yarra Valley. Stroll along peaceful trails and encounter iconic animals such as koalas, kangaroos, platypuses, dingoes, wombats, emus, and more.
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Exploring the Majestic Steavenson Falls in Marysville
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