
Tarrawarra Tunnel Yarra Valley
Explore the historic 130m Tarrawarra Tunnel, a relic of the 1889 Lilydale to Healesville railway line in the Yarra Valley.

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Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Tarrawarra Tunnel Yarra Valley
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic 130m Tarrawarra Tunnel, a relic of the 1889 Lilydale to Healesville railway line in the Yarra Valley.
"Access can be tricky, but this historic tunnel offers a unique glimpse into the Yarra Valley's railway past."

Plan Your Access
Road access can be tricky; seek permission to drive through vineyards. Check with Tarrawarra Estate Winery for guidance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely be walking along the old rail tracks, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Tarrawarra Tunnel
Lilydale to Healesville Rail Line
Step back in time exploring this 130-meter-long, 1889-built railway tunnel. A true piece of Yarra Valley history.

Yarra Valley Railway Line
Original Lilydale to Healesville Line
Walk or explore the remnants of this historic railway, offering a unique perspective on the region's past.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Tarrawarra Tunnel
Tunnel History and Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Plan Your Access
Road access can be tricky; seek permission to drive through vineyards. Check with Tarrawarra Estate Winery for guidance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely be walking along the old rail tracks, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Research Tunnel History
Learn about the tunnel's construction in 1889 for a richer experience. :books:
Combine with Winery Visit
The tunnel is near Tarrawarra Estate Winery, making it a great stop for wine lovers. :wine_glass:
Yarra Valley Railway
Tips
from all over the internet
Plan Your Access
Road access can be tricky; seek permission to drive through vineyards. Check with Tarrawarra Estate Winery for guidance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely be walking along the old rail tracks, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Research Tunnel History
Learn about the tunnel's construction in 1889 for a richer experience. :books:
Combine with Winery Visit
The tunnel is near Tarrawarra Estate Winery, making it a great stop for wine lovers. :wine_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Tarrawarra Tunnel a historically significant site, offering a glimpse into the Yarra Valley's railway past. However, access can be challenging due to its location on private property, with poor signage and potential restrictions through vineyards. Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth visit.
"Poorly signed posted. No road access as you have to seek permission to drive thro a bio security Ag area vineyard. The winery had no access signage to find the tunnel, so we tried both ways tgto the winery and off the road as per Google maps but no good."
Christopher Guy
"The Historic Tunnel Hill on the original Lilydale to Healesville line. Built 1889, 130 meters in length and 3 kms west of Healesville station or a short walk along the track from Tarrawarra Estate Winery. The tunnel is now part of the Tourist Yarra Valley Railway."
Ian Crocker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing the Tarrawarra Tunnel can be challenging. It's located on the historic Lilydale to Healesville rail line. While it's part of the Tourist Yarra Valley Railway, direct road access often requires seeking permission to drive through a bio-security area of a vineyard, such as Tarrawarra Estate Winery. It's recommended to contact the winery beforehand or plan to walk along the old track from a nearby point.
Public transport options directly to the tunnel are limited. The Yarra Valley Railway operates services, but you would need to check their specific routes and stops. It's generally easier to access by car, though be mindful of the vineyard access requirements.
Direct driving access to the tunnel itself is often restricted. You may need to seek permission to drive through private vineyard property. It's advisable to check with Tarrawarra Estate Winery for their specific access policies.
If direct driving access isn't possible, you can often walk along the old railway track. The tunnel is located about 3 kilometers west of Healesville station.
The tunnel is situated on the original Lilydale to Healesville line, and is a short walk from Tarrawarra Estate Winery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, visiting the tunnel itself does not require a ticket, as it's an outdoor historical site. However, if you plan to utilize the Yarra Valley Railway services or visit Tarrawarra Estate Winery, separate admission fees or bookings may apply.
As an outdoor historical site, the tunnel is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, access through private property might be restricted to specific times. It's best to check with Tarrawarra Estate Winery for any access limitations.
There is no specific entry fee to view the Tarrawarra Tunnel itself. It's a historical landmark accessible from the old railway line.
While there might not be specific tours solely for the tunnel, the Yarra Valley Railway may offer excursions that pass by or near it. It's worth checking their schedule and offerings.
The most reliable way to ensure access is to contact Tarrawarra Estate Winery in advance to inquire about driving or walking permissions through their property.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activity is exploring the historic 130-meter-long tunnel and imagining its past use on the railway line. You can also walk along the old track and appreciate the surrounding Yarra Valley scenery.
Yes, the tunnel offers unique photographic opportunities, especially with its historical architecture. The surrounding Yarra Valley landscape also provides scenic backdrops.
Exploring the tunnel itself is relatively quick, perhaps 15-30 minutes. However, if you plan to walk along the railway line or combine it with a winery visit, you could spend a few hours.
Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the tunnel. You would likely need to use facilities at Tarrawarra Estate Winery or in nearby Healesville.
The terrain is generally flat along the old railway line, but can be uneven. Wear sturdy shoes as you'll be walking on ballast and potentially some rough ground.
🎫 📚 History & Context
The Tarrawarra Tunnel was constructed in 1889 as part of the original Lilydale to Healesville railway line.
Its purpose was to allow the railway line to pass through a section of land, facilitating the transport of goods and passengers in the Yarra Valley.
The tunnel is no longer in active use for regular train services but is preserved as a historical site and is part of the Tourist Yarra Valley Railway's heritage.
The tunnel is approximately 130 meters in length.
It represents a significant piece of Victorian railway history and engineering from the late 19th century, contributing to the development of the Yarra Valley region.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes for walking on the uneven track. Consider combining the visit with a picnic in a nearby park in Healesville for a fuller day out. The historical aspect can spark curiosity about how people traveled in the past.
🚶 History Buffs & Railway Enthusiasts
Key highlights: The tunnel's construction date and length are significant historical markers. Its association with the Tourist Yarra Valley Railway adds to its appeal. Researching the history of the line before your visit will greatly enhance the experience, providing context to the engineering marvel you're exploring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Access and Permissions
It's highly recommended to contact Tarrawarra Estate Winery in advance to inquire about their specific access policies. If driving through isn't feasible, the tunnel is also accessible via a walk along the old railway track, located approximately 3 kilometers west of Healesville station. This approach allows for a more immersive experience of the historical railway line.
Understanding these access nuances beforehand will prevent potential disappointment and ensure a smoother visit to this unique historical site. Always respect private property and follow any guidance provided by landowners.
A Glimpse into Yarra Valley's Railway Past
Today, the tunnel is preserved as a historical landmark and is associated with the Tourist Yarra Valley Railway. While not in active service, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time and imagine the steam trains that once thundered through its archway. Exploring the tunnel and the surrounding remnants of the railway line provides a unique perspective on the area's history, away from the more common winery tours.
For those interested in local history, industrial heritage, or simply seeking a less-traveled point of interest, the Tarrawarra Tunnel is a compelling stop. It’s a reminder of how infrastructure shaped communities and continues to offer a sense of discovery for those who seek it out.





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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit