HEALESVILLE
Get your foodie fix in Healesville, a regional food and wine hub surrounded by stunning scenery, before experiencing iconic encounters of the wildlife kind.
Stare into the snarling jaws of a Tasmanian Devil and peer at a joey in its mother's pouch at Healesville Sanctuary. Get up-close-and-personal to 200 species of native wildlife on meandering paths and walk-through exhibits.
You may be in awe of the iconic names of Healesville's wineries, including DomaineChandon, Rochford Wines and Coldstream Hills, but the approachable winemakers ensure a visit to the cellar door is both educational and entertaining.
Pick up some winery specials to enjoy with a gourmet picnic in the peaceful fern gullies and mountain ash at Badger Weir Park. Sate your appetite in town with gourmet pizzas and artisan breads at Giant Steps/Innocent Bystander, or a posh pub meal at Healesville Hotel.
Find artistic inspiration at Toolangi Pottery and in the handcrafted jewellery at Silvermist Gallery. Snap up vintage bargains in second-hand shops or hand-made items at Healesville Community Market.