Goulburn Valley Wine Region

Stretching along the lazy bends of the Goulburn River, this sun-drenched wine region is one of Victoria's oldest – yet it remains refreshingly under-the-radar. Here, you'll find a landscape of ancient red gums, sprawling vineyards and historic river towns where the pace of life slows to a gentle amble. The Goulburn Valley is especially known for its bold reds (shiraz and cabernet sauvignon) and elegant marsanne, a white varietal that thrives in the warm climate. Whether you're a dedicated oenophile or just love a good cellar-door chat, this is a place to taste, wander and discover the quiet soul of rural Victoria.

Highlights & What to See

• Cellar-door hopping at family-owned wineries – Seek out Tahbilk (one of Australia's oldest wineries, with a stunning wetlands walk), Mitchelton (famous for its striking prism-shaped tower and restaurant) and Fyansford, where you can taste small-batch drops in a restored 19th-century homestead.
• Nagambie Lakes – A water-sports hub on the Goulburn River, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding or simply kicking back with a picnic and watching the rowers glide past.
• Historic town of Seymour – Explore the Railway Heritage Centre and the Trawool Valley, where the old railway viaducts make for a dramatic photo stop.
• Murchison – A tiny gem with a fossil museum and a serene riverside reserve perfect for a swim on a hot day.
• Shepparton – The region's largest town, known for its impressive collection of public art (over 100 painted cows and moos) and the excellent Shepparton Art Museum (SAM).

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside a leisurely two to three days to truly soak up the Goulburn Valley's rhythm. Spend your first day visiting a cluster of wineries around Nagambie – you can easily hit four or five cellar doors without rushing. On day two, explore the river towns: start in Seymour, then wind your way through Murchison and on to Shepparton for art and a local lunch. If you have a third day, delve deeper into the wine trails or hire a kayak on the Nagambie Lakes. The region is compact enough that you can base yourself in one spot (Nagambie is ideal) and explore in a 30–40 km radius.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Heathcote Wine Region – Just south of the Goulburn Valley, Heathcote is famous for its shiraz grown on ancient Cambrian soils. A perfect pairing for a self-drive wine tour.
• Strathbogie Ranges – A short detour into the cool-climate hills, where you'll find boutique wineries, waterfalls and walking trails through tall forests.
• Lake Eildon – About an hour's drive east, this enormous lake offers water sports, fishing and camping – a great contrast to the riverine landscapes of the valley.
• Bendigo – Head north to this gold-rush city with its grand Victorian architecture, excellent galleries and buzzing food scene. It's an easy day trip from the Goulburn Valley.
• Yarra Valley – If you're coming from Melbourne, you could combine a Goulburn Valley trip with a stop in the Yarra Valley (Victoria's most famous wine region) for a comprehensive taste of the state's wine diversity.

Please check official sources for current details.