Gembrook, Victoria

Swallowfield
Vineyards

Swallowfield Vineyards in Gembrook is a family owned boutique vineyard & estate situated in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. Situated on 150 acres, right at the forest’s edge, the venue boats multiple vineyards, fields, forests, lakes… and even a crocodile named Charlie!

Directions

Swallowfield Vineyards is located in Gembrook, just over one hour drive from Melbourne CBD.

Take the M3 and exit at C413 Wellington Road. Turn right at Belgrave-Gembrook Road.
Turn left at Gembrook-Launching Place Road.
Turn right into Swallowfield Road.

 

Hotels & Guesthouses

As there are minimal accommodation in the surrounding area, we do recommend securing a booking as soon as possible.

GEMBROOK COTTAGES

B&B from $300 per night
8 minute drive from venue
Website

EMERALD RIDGE

B&B from $250 per night
25 minute drive from venue
Website

GLENVIEW RETREAT

Cottages from $250 per night
20 minute drive from venue
Website

SCOUTS GILWELL PARK

Dorm-style from $60 per person
Adjacent to venue
Website

What to do in the Gembrook area

Gembrook is tucked in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, one of Victoria’s most beautiful areas. While you’re here, it’s well worth making the most of your visit - either by admiring the scenery, or sampling the many great food options in the area.

EAT

The Independent Gembrook offers modern Argentinian cuisine in a heritage building that was once a motor garage.

Spencers Store is a cosy, casual cafe in
Gembrook town.

In nearby Emerald, Emerald Village Bakery & Cafe is one of our favourite bakeries.

Also in Emerald, The General Foodstore offers some truly delicious breakfasts (and is a special favourite of Candice’s Mum, Beth).

PLAY

Gembrook is known for being the final destination of the iconic Puffing Billy steam train, which departs from Belgrave.

This is great activity for kids especially. Both Candice and Tim have enjoyed many trips on Puffing Billy (both as kids and as adults!).

General excursion trains operate daily, with Belgrave to Gembrook, and Lakeside to Gembrook journeys available Friday to Sunday. Tickets do sell fast, so book early to secure your place.

EXPLORE

Gembrook is located on the fringe of the Bunyip State Forest. This area features diverse ecosystems from heathland swamps to towering mountain ash forests. Admire the scenery from the road, or pack a picnic and breathe in the country air.

Nearby Kurth Kiln Regional Park is known for its kiln, used during the Second World War to make charcoal for gas producer units fitted to motor cars, as well as the Shiprock Falls. Today it is popular for picnicking and nature walking.