Weekend Getaway: TarraWarra Museum of Art and Australia’s Beautiful Yarra Valley
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About an hour-long drive from Melbourne, nestled in the lush Yarra Valley, lies the TarraWarra Museum of Art (TWMA). Inaugurated at this site in Victoria in 2003, and dedicated to showcasing Australian art from the mid-20th century to the present day, the mus
Weekend Getaway: TarraWarra Museum of Art and Australia’s Beautiful Yarra Valley
About an hour-long drive from Melbourne, nestled in the lush Yarra Valley, lies the TarraWarra Museum of Art (TWMA). Inaugurated at this site in Victoria in 2003, and dedicated to showcasing Australian art from the mid-20th century to the present day, the museum enjoys a rating of 4.5 on TripAdvisor. It is hailed not only for its collection, but also for the splendid views — the region is known for its vineyards and national parks.If you need further incentive to visit, TWMA is hosting an Open Weekend on December 10-11 (from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) offering free entry to visitors as well as a rich program of workshops, talks, tours, and live music. Read on for our handy guide to the museum and the Valley with tips on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay if you decide to extend a day trip to a weekend visit. Our slideshow provides a taste of what’s in store.What to seeSculptures by Bronwyn OliverUntil February 5, 2017, TWMA is exhibiting the first significant retrospective of work by the late sculptor Bronwyn Oliver, described as one of the most rewarding sculptors of her time. The exhibition features more than 50 intricate metal works spanning the 1980s to 2006 (her death), including maquettes of some of her well-known public works.Modern and Contemporary Australian artTWMA’s collection was primarily donated by Eva and Marc Besen, two of Australia’s foremost philanthropists and arts benefactors, who continue to add to it. The collection features works by “artists who have shaped the development of modern art in Australia,” as well as contemporary examples, including the likes of Robert Juniper, Rosalie Gascoigne, and Dale Hickey.Open Weekend programA selection of talks and events are on offer, including sculpture workshops inspired by the Bronwyn Oliver exhibition and the surrounding natural beauty; pop-up exhibition talks by TWMA curator Anthony Fitzpatrick and volunteers; art encounters with artists Rachel Dillon, Mim Kocher, and Margaret McLoughlin; tours of the Museum grounds and natural history; and live music.TarraWarra Estate and vineyardThe surrounding TarraWarra Estate is one of Australia’s foremost wine estates, offering interesting architecture, natural beauty, seasonal food, and wines produced from original plantings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as reserves. The Cellar Door that promises a unique wine tasting experience is built into the hillside and described as “the vineyard equivalent of Alice in Wonderland’s rabbit hole.”Where to eatPicnic in the museum groundsFor the duration of the Open Weekend, TWMA is opening its grounds to picnics, inviting visitors to “bring their own feasts” or sample the range of local refreshment choices that will be available.TarraWarra Estate restaurantThe menu, inspired by the estate’s kitchen garden, is altered every couple of months by head chef Troy Spencer, who likes to incorporate seasonal produce and a dash of whimsy in his dishes. Complement the experience with a wine tasting complete with stunning views.Mocha & LimeThis cafe is a family-run business in Healesville, known for its simple wholesome food and friendly atmosphere. Specialties include parmesan scrambled eggs, the Ploughman’s Lunch, and home-made gluten-free desserts.Yarra Valley DairyHead to the Yarra Valley Dairy in Coldstream for homemade farmhouse cheeses, wine, and a picturesque setting. Try their cheese platter, creamy goat cheese, a variety of breads, and hot chocolate. The shop also offers jams, pastes, and gourmet goodies.Further dining optionsFine dining: Oakridge, Healesville Hotel restaurant, Ezard at Levantine HillMid-range: Meletos Cafe, Herd Cafe + Bar, The Stables at Stones of the Yarra ValleyCasual dining: Medhurst Winery, Soumah Winery, Healesville Hotel beer garden, Giant Steps restaurant and cafe What else to exploreYarra Ranges National ParkOriginally occupied by Aboriginal people, the national park is criss-crossed with walking trails and tracks of varying lengths. There are several easy to moderate level walks to choose from, in addition to the Bicentennial National Trail. Badger Weir offers picnic and barbecue opportunities.Healesville SanctuaryThis zoo is home to many native animals of Australia, including the platypus, red kangaroo, koala, Tasmanian devil, and emus. The sanctuary offers several tours, including two with platypus and wombats.Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice CreameryNothing could really go wrong with this choice. Like the other sites in Valley, it also boasts beautiful grounds for walks and play, in addition to highlights such as chocolate tastings, an opportunity to watch hand-crafted chocolate items being created, and a cafe to soothe that sweet tooth.See the sunrise from a hot air balloonSeveral companies offer hot air balloon flights over the valleys, hills, and sanctuary for those interested in a different view of this landscape and its fauna. These include Global Ballooning Australia and RedBalloon, among others. Tours are often followed by breakfast.Where to stayHazeldeneA private resort in the Upper Yarra Valley, complete with a lake. It comprises eight deluxe rooms, and there are also facilities such as tennis courts, a heated swimming pool, and spas.Valley Farm VineyardThis tranquil property offers various cottages that can accommodate 1-6 people each, complete with useful amenities. There are also regular vineyard tours and friendly pets.Yarra GablesYarra Gables Motel is a luxury accommodation in Healesville, comprising large rooms with kitchenettes. They have also recently added a three-bedroom villa that can accommodate up to six people.Further optionsThe Healesville Hotel (shared bathrooms), RACV Country Club (requires membership), Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort + Spa Read more
