Over 80 wineries, some nationally and internationally awarded are available just an hour's drive from Melbourne. A weekend in this getaway would mean indulging in life's greatest pleasures of food, wine and nature. You can leave your busy work schedule behind and lose yourself bush walking among the fern glades, towering forests and eclectic villages. You come across native Australian birds and animals like platypus, koalas, Tasmanian devils, lyrebirds, echidnas and more. The region is known for fresh produce including freshwater salmon, trout and caviar, organically grown fruit and vegetables and handmade cheese and preserves. The region also has a long history of making beer. For an unique and undisturbed view of the valley, you could go hot-air ballooning and post flight you can enjoy a breakfast complete with sparkling wine and fresh produce. There are public transport options to take you around the region.