Mornings for us always start with a walk into town and a coffee from Silva Coffee Roasters. It’s unpretentious and serious about good coffee. Whether you grab it takeaway and wander back along the river or settle in for a slower start, it’s a reliable go-to to kick off the day.

For lunch, Riverview Cafe and Wine Bar lives up to its name. Sitting right by the river, it’s an easy spot to slide into after a walk or ride, and the menu suits the setting perfectly. We’ve stopped in for light lunches that turn into long, lazy afternoons, with fresh salads, simple plates and a glass of local wine on offer. They’re open for lunch for 7 days but dinner service is reserved for Friday and Saturday nights which means bookings are essential.

If you’re happy to jump in the car for something special, Yarra Valley Artisan Baker is worth the 10 minute drive. We like to stock up on crusty sourdough and pastries and bring them back to enjoy slowly over the next day or two. It’s open Wednesday - Sunday from 7am until sold out - make sure you get there before 10am!

Dinner in town usually means Little Joe, a warm and welcoming spot that feels just right after a day outdoors. The menu mostly comprises their delicious wood-fired pizzas but there’s several non-pizza options as well. We devoured the mushroom pizza topped with rocket.

If you’re staying in, cooking at the park is easy. There’s a well-equipped Camp Kitchen along with BBQ facilities, and plenty of space to enjoy a meal back at your site or cabin. Whether you’re grilling something simple or putting together a spread from your bakery haul, it’s all very low effort, which suits the pace of a Warburton stay perfectly.

One of the best things about staying here is how much you can do without going far. Warburton Waterworld sits just steps from the park and is a summer favourite for a reason. Run by Yarra Ranges Council, it’s a free-of-charge lively mix of splash pads, shallow pools, fountains and slides that keeps kids entertained for hours. While they dart between water features, you can claim a shaded spot, feel the river breeze roll through and enjoy the mountain backdrop. It’s an easy, low-effort win for families exploring the Yarra Valley in warmer months.

A short drive from town takes you to the Redwood Forest, one of the area’s most memorable natural sights. Walking among the towering Californian redwoods feels quietly surreal, with filtered light, cool air and a stillness that invites you to slow right down. The loop walk is gentle and accessible, making it just as rewarding for a relaxed wander as it is for photographers chasing that perfect forest shot.

The Rainforest Gallery is a must if you enjoy getting up into the trees. 350m of elevated steel walkways weave through lush fern gullies and towering Mountain Ash trees, giving you a different perspective on the forest canopy. The walk is short but immersive, and it pairs perfectly with a longer riverside stroll or a ride along the Warburton Rail Trail afterward.

If you’re happy to keep things simple, staying close to the park is just as rewarding. Wander the riverbank at different times of day, watch the light change across the valley, or let the kids burn off energy at the playground before dinner. Warburton has a way of encouraging you to do less, notice more and enjoy the scenery right where you are.

Being right by the river is a big part of the appeal. In warmer months the area can be busy during the day with people enjoying the water and nearby Waterworld, but things settle into a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere by evening.