Healesville Sanctuary

A day at Healesville Sanctuary is one of the most recommended wildlife experiences for guests staying at Yarra Valley Lodge.

Set among native bushland in Healesville, the Sanctuary is home to Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats, emus and native birdlife. For families staying at Yarra Valley Lodge, it is an easy and memorable way to add a nature-based experience to a Yarra Valley stay, with open-air habitats, walking paths and plenty of space to explore at a relaxed pace.

Why visit Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary is a natural choice for guests looking for family activities in the Yarra Valley. The setting feels calm and local, with shaded paths, keeper talks and wildlife experiences that give the day a gentle structure without needing to over-plan.

For interstate and international travellers, it is also a practical way to see Australian wildlife close to Melbourne. The Yarra Valley is Victoria’s premier cool-climate wine region, and Healesville Sanctuary adds another layer to the stay, especially for families planning a weekend around wildlife, local produce, cellar doors, gardens and time outdoors.

How to get there

Healesville Sanctuary is located on Badger Creek Road, Healesville. From Yarra Valley Lodge, it is approximately 27 km away, with a drive time of around 25 minutes depending on traffic and the route taken.

For guests travelling from Melbourne, the Sanctuary is around one hour from the CBD. Driving is the simplest option from the Lodge, particularly for families with young children or guests planning to continue into Healesville before returning to the estate.

Good to know

• Opening hours: Open daily, 9am to 5pm.
• Bookings: Online tickets are recommended, especially during weekends and school holidays.
• Family note: Children under 16 visit free on weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays when accompanied by an adult.
• Allow: Around 2 to 3 hours for a relaxed family visit.
• Best time to visit: Morning is usually the easiest time for families, especially during peak holiday periods.

Make it part of your stay

We recommend visiting Healesville Sanctuary after breakfast, then keeping the rest of the day unhurried. Families can return to Yarra Valley Lodge for time on the estate, an early dinner at Bella Restaurant or a quiet evening after a day outdoors.

Stay near Healesville Sanctuary and make Yarra Valley Lodge your base for a family-friendly Yarra Valley escape.