Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train, Healesville Sanctuary & Yarra Chocolate

Summary

Steam train rides, native animals and sweet Yarra Valley treats

You’ll ride Melbourne’s iconic Puffing Billy steam train through lush Dandenong Ranges, stroll beside Emerald Lake, spot native wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary with plenty of time to wander, and finish your day sampling chocolate in Yarra Valley. It’s relaxed but full of moments you’ll remember — like eucalyptus in your nose or laughter over chocolate spoons.

What’s the experience like?

We were already a little giddy by the time the old steam whistle echoed through Belgrave station — I didn’t expect that much excitement from a train ride, but there’s something about Puffing Billy that just gets to you. The wooden seats were smoother than I imagined, and when the conductor gave us a grin (big bushy mustache, classic), we all leaned out for that first lungful of eucalyptus air. The Dandenong Ranges looked washed clean after last night’s rain — everything smelled sharp and green. Kids waved from the platform as we rattled off; it felt like stepping into someone else’s childhood memory.

Emerald Lake was quieter than I thought it’d be. Our guide, Sam — who somehow knew every bird call — pointed out a lyrebird scratching around near the ferns. I tried to snap a photo but mostly got blurry leaves. We wandered along the water’s edge for a bit, shoes crunching on damp gravel. Then it was back on the bus toward Healesville Sanctuary, which honestly surprised me with how close you get to the animals. There’s this moment where an echidna waddled right past my shoe — I froze so I wouldn’t scare it off (Sam whispered “don’t move, they’re shy”). Lunch was up to us; I ended up with a veggie pie and sat under some gum trees watching cockatoos argue overhead.

The last stop was the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. You can smell sugar before you even get inside — not kidding, it hits you in the parking lot. Free tastings meant we hovered awkwardly near the trays until someone laughed and told us to just dig in. I lost track of how many tiny spoons of chocolate I tried (hazelnut was my favorite). On the drive back toward Melbourne, everyone got quiet for a while — maybe sugar crash or just full of new things to think about. Either way, I still think about that steam whistle sometimes when it’s quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Puffing Billy and Yarra Valley tour

• Ride Puffing Billy steam train
• Stroll around Emerald Lake
• Visit Healesville Sanctuary
• Lunch at Healesville Sanctuary
• Taste chocolates at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

Top questions

How long is the Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary tour?

This is a full-day tour departing from Melbourne and returning in the evening.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included but you can purchase lunch at Healesville Sanctuary.

Does this tour include entry fees?

Yes, entry fees for Puffing Billy (Belgrave to Emerald Lake), Emerald Lake, Healesville Sanctuary, and Yarra Valley Chocolaterie are included.

Can infants or young children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome but all children up to age 15 need a child ticket.

Is pickup included for this day trip from Melbourne?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby for joining the tour.

What animals can I see at Healesville Sanctuary?

You can see native Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, birds and more at Healesville Sanctuary.

Are there free tastings at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie?

Yes, free chocolate tastings are included during your visit to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery.

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?

No, due to timing this tour is not suitable for cruise passengers.

What’s included

Your day includes entry tickets for Puffing Billy steam train (from Belgrave to Emerald Lake), access to Emerald Lake Park, admission to Healesville Sanctuary where you can buy your own lunch if you want it, plus free tastings and entry at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery—all by air-conditioned vehicle with local guidance throughout.