"Enchanting Destinations: The Most Prestigious Yarra Valley Wedding Venues"
The definitive guide to the best venues in the Yarra Valley
The time has come, you are now both engaged and starting to plan your dream wedding. Usually this process starts by finding a venue to host your shindig at. Look no further than the breathtaking Yarra Valley, arguably one of Australia’s best wine and food regions, where luxury meets natural beauty to create an unforgettable wedding experience. You both being a discerning couple with a taste for the finer things in life, you deserve nothing less than the most exquisite wedding venue that reflects your unique style and captures the essence of not only your love story, but also your love for culinary indulgence.
In this article, I present to you a curated selection of the most prestigious Yarra Valley wedding venues that stretch from Dixons Creek, to Healesville, through to Warburton, each offering an unparalleled level of elegance, sophistication, and personalised service. Each and every one of these locations I have personally photographed at, so I have experienced them first hand. Prepare to be captivated by these remarkable destinations that will elevate your special day to new heights of grandeur.
I. Stones of the Yarra Valley
Step into a world of elegance and charm at Stones of the Yarra Valley. This exquisite venue combines rustic Tuscan inspired beauty with modern sophistication, making it an ideal choice for couples who appreciate timeless style. With its stunning vineyard views, heritage buildings, and award-winning cuisine (some of the best food I have had in the YV), Stones of the Yarra Valley promises a truly unforgettable wedding celebration. Visit their website to discover more.
You will find this property has it all, a chapel for indoor ceremonies to shield you and your guests from the sun or rain, onsite coordinator, accommodation for multiple guests, a day after location for brunch or lunch and more photo locations than you will have time to explore. Believe me, I am there multiple times a year and I alsways shoot it differently every time.
Click here to see a real wedding at Stones
Venue Summary
Capacity: 40-200
Min Spend Stables (valid in 2023): $11k
Min Spend The Barn (valid in 2023): $17-32K
Onsite Accommodation: Yes
Wedding Party Retreat: Yes
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x3
Wet Weather Option: Yes (Chapel)
Menu and Beverage Packages start from: $275pp
On the day Coordinator: Yes
Drive up ceremony access: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Classic photo by the chapel that looks towards the vineyards and the Yarra Ranges
II. Immerse Winery
If you envision a wedding surrounded by lush vineyards and picturesque gardens with roses in the spring and colorful trees in the Autumn, Immerse Winery is the perfect venue for you. This stunning estate offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit various guest counts and climates. Whether you desire an intimate ceremony or a grand reception, Immerse Winery provides a magical setting that will make your wedding day truly extraordinary. Explore their offerings at their website.
Check out the real wedding of Melinda and Shawn and Stephanie & Danny on the blog.
Venue Summary
Capacity: 70-220
Min Spend The Restaurant: from $17K
Onsite Accommodation: Yes
Alternate nearby Accommodation: Balgownie Estate, Glenlowren
Wedding Party Retreat: Yes (accommodation rooms)
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x3
Wet Weather Option: Yes x2
Menu and Beverage Packages start from: $190pp
On the day Coordinator: Yes
Drive up ceremony access: Yes
A different take on the typical dusk shoot at Immerse Winery in the Vineyard Chapel.
III. Zonzo Estate
For couples seeking a touch of modern elegance, Zonzo Estate is a true gem of the Yarra Valley. Surrounded by 45 acres of vineyards and rolling hills, this irresistible venue captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty from all sides. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Zonzo Estate offers a charming backdrop for a romantic wedding celebration packed with epic food and wine. Discover more about this captivating venue by visiting their website.
Venue Summary
Capacity: 20-140
Onsite Accommodation: No
Nearby Accommodation: Balgownie Estate, Glenlowren, Chateau Yering Hotel,
Wedding Party Retreat: Yes (adjoining restaurant space)
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x3
Wet Weather Option: Yes
Menu and Beverage Packages start from: $160pp
On the day Coordinator: Yes
Drive up ceremony access: Yes (to Cappella)
Accessible: Yes
Zonzo features a modern aesthetic surrounded by the best landscape the Yarra Valley has to offer
IV. Projekt 3488
If you're a couple with a taste for the unconventional, Projekt 3488 is the perfect place to bring your unique vision to life. This industrial-chic venue combines old-world charm with contemporary design, creating a one-of-a-kind setting for your wedding. From its exposed brick walls to its soaring ceilings, Projekt 3488 offers endless possibilities for creating a truly personalised and memorable experience. Get inspired by visiting their website.
Not only you can have your photo session in the hand crafted gardens out the back and the front of Projekt, but you are less than 15 minutes to multiple photo locations in Warburton, including the mystical Redwoods Forest. I do encourage doing a first look and photo session offsite first, then you can party all night after your ceremony without having to leave the venue itself.
The lovely owners Mark and Sandi will look after you from the get go. Their passion for the quirky weddings shine through and you are truly in perfect hands for a LGBTQIA+ friendly host.
For a look at a real wedding at Projekt 3488, head to the blog.
Venue Summary
Capacity: 20-140
Onsite Accommodation: No
Nearby Accommodation: Warburton Retro Motel, Mr Oak Warburton, Warby Sabi
Wedding Party Retreat: Not technically, but you can retreat to a different area than the guests if needed & a small space is available for dressing in the bedroom of the property
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x3
Drive up ceremony access: No (street parking only)
Accessible: No (stairs only to upper deck, dressing room and lounge)
A signature of Projekt 3488 is the petal shower in the main dining hall for your ceremony
V. Bulong Estate
Nestled amidst rolling hills and breathtaking vineyards of Yarra Junction, the family owned Bulong Estate offers a romantic and intimate setting for your wedding day, ideal if you want something slightly more on the smaller side. This boutique 120 acre venue combines natural beauty with a relaxed atmosphere, providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration. Whether you choose an outdoor ceremony under the dappled shade of ancient trees or an indoor reception overlooking the vineyard, Bulong Estate promises a day that is relaxed and easy. Explore their offerings at their website.
For a real wedding hosted at Bulong Estate, check out this post on the blog.
Venue Summary
Capacity: 40-60 Seated, up to 150 cocktail
Onsite Accommodation: No
Nearby Accommodation: Kangaroo Manor, Oscars on the Yarra Valley, Deloraine Homestead
Wedding Party Retreat: No
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x2
Wet Weather Option: The main ceremony spaces aren’t, but there is a covered section for a small stand up ceremony if needed
Menu and Beverage Packages start from: $135pp
On the day Coordinator: Yes
Drive up ceremony access: Yes
Accessible: Yes
A creative dusk photo of Eleanor and Sam by the old tree at Bulong Estate
VI. Acacia Ridge
Acacia Ridge is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Yarra Valley. With its panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains that feel like they go forever, this venue offers a sense of serenity and natural beauty. Whether you dream of a traditional ceremony with a vineyard backdrop or an outdoor feel reception either in their marquee or barn, Acacia Ridge provides a tranquil oasis for your wedding day. To learn more, visit their website.
The properties’ popularity is exploding, so get in fast! This is mainly because they have spent big money lately in updates for a better look and guest experience. With a great onsite catering kitchen, they can put you in touch with all the best food suppliers in the area.
Venue Summary
Capacity: up to 200 seated, 280 cocktail
Onsite Accommodation: No
Nearby Accommodation: Balgownie Estate, Glenlowren, Chateau Yering Hotel,
Wedding Party Retreat: Yes
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x3
Wet Weather Option: Yes, two undercover spaces
Catering starts from: $77pp plus drinks
On the day Coordinator: basic setup and guest ushering available
Drive up ceremony access: Yes (short walk to each ceremony space)
Accessible: Yes (mostly)
Acacia Ridge offers three different ceremony locations on the one property and photo locations galore
VII. Riverstone Estate
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Yarra Valley, Riverstone Estate is a breathtaking venue that will leave you and your guests in awe. With arguably the best views in the Valley, manicured gardens, and humongous wrap around decking, this location offers a sense of refined luxury without the massive price tag. Whether you desire an intimate gathering or a grand affair, Riverstone Estate provides the perfect canvas to bring your wedding dreams to life. Discover more about this magnificent venue at their website.
Venue Summary
Capacity: 20-120
Onsite Accommodation: No
Nearby Accommodation: Balgownie Estate, Glenlowren, Chateau Yering Hotel, RACV Healesville
Wedding Party Retreat: Yes
Onsite Ceremony Spaces: Yes x2
Wet Weather Option: Yes, but limited room on the deck
Menu and Beverage Packages start from: $180-210pp
Min Spend: $9000-14,000 season and day of the week dependant
On the day Coordinator: Yes
Drive up ceremony access: Yes
Accessible: Yes
Even in the rain you can still make magic happen at Riverstone
VIII. Fergusson Winery
For a wedding that exudes charm and sophistication, Fergusson Winery is an excellent choice. This family-owned and freshly renovated estate boasts beautiful vineyards, onsite chapel, a rustic cellar door, barrel room for intimate micro weddings and an incredible restaurant with modern decor. With its warm and welcoming ambiance both inside and out, Fergusson Winery creates an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating your wedding. Experience the magic by visiting their website.
An epic view from the sky looking over Fergusson’s Vineyards
IX. Swallowfield Vineyards
Surrounded by rolling vineyards and breathtaking wide open landscapes spread over 150 acres, Swallowfield Vineyards in Gembrook (around 80-90 minutes from Melbourne) is a truly idyllic setting for your wedding day. This boutique family owned winery offers a tranquil atmosphere and a sense of intimacy that is perfect for romantic celebrations. Whether you envision an outdoor ceremony with a forest backdrop or in the expansive gardens followed by a cosy reception in their rustic barn, Swallowfield Vineyards is the blank DIY canvas you need to create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Having a yarn with the owner Phil is worth the price admission on its own. Visit their website to learn more.
For a more detailed look at a wedding hosted at Swallowfield Vineyards click here.
Beautiful and intimate portrait of Samantha taking a breath before her ceremony at Swallowfield Vineyards
X. Alowyn Gardens
If you have always dreamed of a wedding surrounded by stunningly curated gardens, Alowyn Gardens is the venue for you. Established in 1997, this enchanting location features beautiful landscaped gardens, charming gazebos, and close to the heart of Yarra Glen. With its magical ambiance and attention to detail, Alowyn Gardens provides a romantic backdrop for your special day. Host either just your ceremony or your entire day with the ability to DIY the look and feel you desire. There are not many locations in Victoria that can offer this level of beauty, especially in the spring and autumn months. Discover more about this magical venue by visiting their website.
For a look at a full wedding, see Melissa and Trent’s sun soaked day here.
Be sure to fully utilise the extensive photo opportunities at Alowyn Gardens
As you embark on this exciting journey to find the perfect Yarra Valley wedding venue, let the beauty of these remarkable locations inspire your imagination when it comes to designing your very own day. Each venue on this curated list offers a unique experience, reflecting the diverse tastes and desires of discerning couples like you. Whether you choose a vineyard estate, a modern-chic venue, or a garden oasis, rest assured that your wedding day will be an exquisite reflection of your love story. So, go ahead and explore these luxurious Yarra Valley wedding venues, where dreams come true and memories are made that will last a lifetime.
Remember, as you plan your special day, the right wedding photographer (and in-house video team) can capture the essence of every moment, allowing you to relive the magic for years to come. Marcel Van der Horst Photographer, with his 16 years of experience can guide you through the whole process and offer the best advice for timing of your day, locations and connecting you to the area’s best suppliers.
Our team is always having a laugh between takes, even on our own photo shoot.
To take a look at the wedding folio, click below or to reach out to discuss your wedding needs head here.