There’s no doubt about it the Yarra Valley is one of the most beautiful places on earth! Whether it’s the up market Domaine Chandon, the up up market Chateau Yering or the more intimate Riverstone Estate, you’ll never run out of wineries to explore. However, there’s more to the Yarra Valley than grape grazing. Take Mont De Lancey historic homestead for example.

Located in Wandin, Mont De Lancey Historic Home and Museum features an historic home and 1880’s Slab Kitchen, gardens, museum, chapel Heritage Education Centre and blacksmiths shop.

We visited on a perfect Melbourne autumn day. They recommend you spend at least two hours on your visit. We arrived late in the day and only had about an hour to take the guided tour, have Devonshire Tea and watch the blacksmiths belt into a bit of hot metal. Not really enough time to soak in the atmosphere and get the most from the admission price which, by the way, is $20 for a family (2 adults & 3 children).

How much time do you need?

That depends on whether you are the sort that likes to wander and spend time exploring museums. If so, you could easily spend an afternoon at Mont De Lancey. If on the other hand you have young children, a couple of hours should just about do it. While we’re on the subject of children, it would be an improvement to have a few activities to amuse them - croquet, quoits, bocce, or even a question sheet for them to answer on the tour. Our children enjoyed our time there, but in comparison to places like Lavandula they said, “it’s not as much fun.”

Eating at Les Chesselles

The new Licensed French Café specialises in Canapés and Petit Fours and on weekends they offer French style breakfast. The breakfast menu looked mouth watering and it’s served all day so you can even sleep in and still be in time for breakfast. The atmosphere is comfortable and cosy and the staff friendly, even thought they seemed about as French as Paul Hogan.

Blacksmiths Workshop

In recent years the craft of Blacksmithing has gained popularity. Mont De Lancey supports a thriving blacksmiths group. The large purpose built blacksmith facility with ample double forges is used by novice and experienced blacksmiths to learn and practice this old craft. Short courses are available and there is a blacksmiths convention held annually in October. Blacksmiths are at work most weekends and a range of their wares are available in the gift shop.

Produce Market

Every second Saturday each month, Mont De Lancey holds a farmers market, offering a unique personal encounter with the makers and growers of quality regional products. Admission to the market is a gold coin donation which goes towards the preservation of the property.

Like many community based projects, Mont De Lancey depends on a team of dedicated volunteers and public support to continue operating. Offering a unique window into the history of the Wandin area, Mont De Lancey is well worth a visit. Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday 10:00am to 5:00pm and all public holidays except Good Friday, 24th, 25th, 26th and 31st of December.

For more information on Mont De Lancey visit their website.