The wine gods have blessed these lands with rich, chocolate-biscuit earth that produces delicate and sophisticated wines.
Just a stone’s throw from Melbourne, this scenic drive weaves through rolling, pastured hills which give way to more dramatic slopes of the Victorian Alps. The countryside is punctuated with charming villages, making the perfect base to explore nearby national parks and mountain ranges.
With the city in your rearview mirror and countryside ahead, your first stop is Cannibal Creek Vineyard. Settle in for a personalised tasting of their award winning wines, stock up on local produce and grab a picnic hamper to go, enjoy a light lunch or share plates in the restaurant.
Next, discover Swampfox Winery, perched on Catani's rich peat soils. Their boutique cellar door opens on the first Sunday of each month, serving tastings, stories and a true sense of place in every glass.
South of Drouin, Ripplebrook Winery pairs organic wines with woodfired pizza or a picnic under shady trees.
Closer to Warragul, Brandy Creek Estate tempts with premium cool-climate wines, tasty tapas and even a day spa if indulgence calls.
Beer lovers won't miss out either. In Neerim South, Five Aces Brewing Co serves small-batch brews with live music and hearty fare.
In Warragul, Bandolier Brewing matches quality beer with their famed Pellegrino Pizzas.
Finish at Thorpdale at the Traveller's Rest Hotel, where The Barrell Room distillery bar pours house made vodkas, spicy cocktails and pure good times.
Bars & Pubs
YARRAGON HOTEL, YARRAGON
Friendly staff, generous meals, beer garden and regular live music
COMMERCIAL HOTEL, WARRAGUL
A welcoming country pub in the heart of Warragul, serving classic meals, cold beer and local wines in a family-friendly setting
BANK HOTEL, WARRAGUL
Elevated pub fare in a beautiful restored heritage building
THE GARFIELD HOTEL, GARFIELD
Country pub meals in gorgeously renovated interiors
THE RAILWAY HOTEL, BUNYIP
Classic country pub with a glorious beer garden
THE ROYAL HOTEL, DROUIN
Beautifully refurbished with a rustic modern interior, fantastic meals, live bands
COURTHOUSE RESTAURANT AND GARDEN BAR, WARRAGUL
Atmospheric with a lovely courtyard to enjoy a drink on a warm evening
THE TOOLSHED, NOOJEE
A laid back, country pub in a beautiful bush setting
WALLY PUB, WALHALLA
Inviting and laid-back country pub
