Jason's Restaurant at Bradford Estate Winery
8 McBride Rd, Beaconsfield Upper VIC 3808, Australia
Emerald Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Emerald
Must-try food in Emerald
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Emerald dishes and foodie spots.
Western cuisine
Coffee shop
Quick bites
Recent events and experiences in Emerald
![Melbourne | BABYMONSTER WORLD TOUR [춤 (CHOOM)] IN Melbourne event in Emerald](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0100b12000soed03vEAC5_C_405_455_R5.png_.avif)
Traveller photos and experiences
Unforgettable Honeymoon Experience at Emerald
Our stay at Emerald was absolutely amazing. We came here for our honeymoon, and the experience surpassed all expectations. Without a doubt, we couldn't have chosen a better resort to celebrate such a special occasion in the Maldives. From the very start, they made us feel right at home. A special thanks to our villa host, Wisham, who was attentive at all times, making everything easier and more comfortable, and taking care of every detail during our stay. All the staff, without exception, are incredibly kind and attentive—chefs, waiters, cleaning staff, masseuses—everyone contributes to making the experience even more special. We'd also like to thank John for arranging a beautiful and unique table for our celebration, and Nazmul for the lovely decorations in our room. These thoughtful touches will stay in our memories forever. Beyond the top-notch facilities, we want to highlight the wide variety of activities offered by the resort. Even though it's a private and peaceful island, there's no chance of boredom unless that's what you're after. From water activities and dolphin-watching excursions to a gym, paddle and tennis courts, and live music with DJs in certain areas at night, there’s always something exciting to do. The food is diverse and truly delicious. The resort boasts multiple restaurants and culinary options, so you can savor something new every day. At the same time, the tranquility across the island is remarkable. Despite all the activities and amenities, there are always spots where you can simply relax, enjoy the scenery, and disconnect. We were also fortunate to spot manta rays and various fish species right from our room, which made the experience even more magical. The water, with its stunning turquoise hue and perfect temperature, is ideal for swimming at any time. Without hesitation, we would relive this experience again. Emerald is exactly what we always envisioned when dreaming of the Maldives, and it exceeded all our expectations. We leave with beautiful memories of our honeymoon and wholeheartedly recommend Emerald to everyone.
The Ultimate Melbourne Day Trip: Puffing Billy Steam Train & Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Looking to experience Melbourne’s most iconic nostalgic railway and breathtaking natural wonders all in one day? This Puffing Billy Steam Train and Phillip Island Penguin Parade route is the perfect getaway from the city. Kick off your morning by riding a century-old steam train through the lush rainforests of the Dandenong Ranges. In the afternoon, get up close with native Australian wildlife, and as dusk falls, head to Phillip Island to watch tiny penguins waddle back to their burrows from the sea. By joining a local bus tour, you can skip the stress of driving—making it ideal for families or anyone who prefers a hassle-free adventure. ### Journey Highlights Revealed · **Puffing Billy Steam Train**: Ride a century-old steam train, dangle your legs out the window, and cross forest bridges as if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. 🚂 · **Maru Koala and Animal Park**: Hand-feed kangaroos, observe koalas up close, and see unique Australian animals like wombats and Tasmanian devils. 🐨 · **The Nobbies Centre**: Stand on the cliffside boardwalks at the southwestern tip of Phillip Island and take in the spectacular views of the Southern Ocean and Seal Rocks. (Subject to timing and boardwalk accessibility.) 🌊 · **Phillip Island Penguin Parade**: At twilight, watch hundreds of the world’s smallest "Little Blue Penguins" emerge from the sea and waddle back to their sand dune burrows—one of Australia’s most classic natural experiences. 🐧 ### Essential Melbourne Day Trip Itinerary · *Morning – Departure & Puffing Billy | A Nostalgic Ride Through the Rainforest** Keep an eye on your phone the night before: Travel agencies usually notify you of the exact pickup time and location by the previous evening (typically between 08:00-09:00, depending on the season and train schedule). Depart from a designated city meeting point (like Southern Cross Station or The Windsor Hotel) via air-conditioned bus. It's about a one-hour drive to Belgrave Station in the Dandenong Ranges. Board the Puffing Billy Steam Railway. Built in 1900, it is one of Australia’s oldest steam railways. The train winds through dense rainforest, crossing timber trestle bridges and fern-filled gullies. The highlight is sitting on the window sill with your legs dangling out, feeling the breeze and soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere. The classic route runs from Belgrave to Emerald Lake (about 30-60 minutes). Once there, you can enjoy a lakeside stroll or a quick lunch. · -- · *Noon – Maru Koala and Animal Park | Interactive Wildlife Encounters** From Emerald Lake, head to Maru Koala and Animal Park. Please note: The park entry fee is usually not included in the tour price (approx. AU$30-33, paid on-site), so entry is optional. The park is compact but rich in species. Beyond koalas and kangaroos, you’ll find wombats, Tasmanian devils, dingoes, and more. We recommend buying some feed to interact with the kangaroos; they are very gentle and great for photos. A stay of about 45 minutes to an hour is suggested. 📸 · Note: Depending on train schedules or seasonal timing, some tours might skip this park or substitute it with Moonlit Sanctuary or the Brighton Bathing Boxes. The final itinerary depends on the guide’s announcement on the day.* · -- · *Afternoon – Phillip Island Coastline | Spectacular Views at The Nobbies** Drive toward Phillip Island, enjoying about 1.5-2 hours of scenic Victorian countryside and coastal views. If time and weather permit, your guide will take you to The Nobbies Centre on the island's southwestern tip. Walk along the boardwalks to Seal Rocks, home to one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies. · Note: The Nobbies is not a guaranteed stop. During summer, when penguins return later, the guide will decide whether to visit based on train times, sunset, and boardwalk accessibility. If time is tight, you may head straight to the Penguin Parade area.* Dinner can be purchased at the Penguin Parade visitor center or in the nearby town of Cowes. · -- · *Evening to Night – Penguin Parade | The Most Heartwarming Moment at Sunset** The main event: The Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade. At dusk, the world’s smallest penguins—Little Blue Penguins (about 30-40 cm tall)—arrive in groups, swimming to shore and waddling across the beach to their burrows. This is a purely natural wildlife show; the number of penguins and their arrival time vary by season, weather, and tides. Sunset times change throughout the year, so please come prepared. · *Viewing Tips**: Wear warm layers (it gets very windy by the sea in the evening). **Flash photography is strictly prohibited** to avoid startling the penguins. The standard viewing area is included in your tour ticket. The parade typically ends between 19:00-21:00 (depending on the season), followed by a 2-hour drive back to Melbourne. You can expect to return between 21:00-23:00. ### Quick Travel Tips 1. **Local Tours are Easiest**: Bus tours from the city run daily. Entry fees for optional stops like the animal park (approx. AU$30-33) are paid on-site. 2. **Flexible Timing**: Pickup and return times depend on train schedules and sunset. In summer, you might not see penguins until after 8 PM, returning to the city after 11 PM. Avoid booking other evening plans. 3. **Dress Appropriately**: It’s windy and cold by the coast at night; bring a windproof, warm jacket. Wear comfortable walking shoes. 4. **Important Rules**: No flash photography during the penguin parade. Follow staff instructions when interacting with animals. 5. **Tipping**: Some agencies suggest a tip of about AU$5 per person for the driver/guide. From nostalgic steam trains to iconic wildlife and world-class natural wonders, this classic route packs the best of Melbourne’s surroundings into one unforgettable day!
Travel back 100 years in time! Ride a classic steam train through the forest in Melbourne and enjoy a delicious Australian Wagyu beef teppanyaki meal – a delightful and relaxing day trip.
To travel to and from the Puffing Billy Railway, you don't actually need a car. Taking Melbourne's Metro Trains is more time-efficient, convenient, and direct. Here's a perfect itinerary combining public transport and a day trip to the city center: 🚂 Daytime: Public transport to the Puffing Billy Railway's starting station, Belgrave Station, is available. Use your local transport card (myki card) to enter the gates. Outbound: Depart from Flinders Street Station or Melbourne Central Station in the city center. Take the Belgrave Line train directly to Belgrave Station (approximately 1 hour 15 to 40 minutes). After disembarking, follow the blue lines on the platform; it's about a 2-minute walk to the Puffing Billy Railway's Belgrave starting station. Return: After the train journey, return to Belgrave Station. Take a train towards the city center and get off at Melbourne Central Station, seamlessly connecting to your evening shopping and dinner plans. 🛍️ Evening: City Centre Shopping Route Melbourne's city centre boasts two interconnected flagship shopping centres, perfect for an evening or late-night itinerary: Melbourne Central: Directly accessible from the train station. Must-see: The historic Coops Shot Tower in the atrium and the giant astronomical clock. It houses many Australian local brands and trendy clothing. Emporium Melbourne: Connected to Melbourne Central via a skybridge. This centre features more international mid-to-high-end brands, designer clothing, and beauty stores in a spacious and modern environment. 🥩 Dinner: Australian Wagyu Pepper Lunch Enjoying Australian Wagyu beef at Pepper Lunch is a rare treat. The most convenient location in the city centre is on Elizabeth Street: Recommended branch: Pepper Lunch Elizabeth Street. How to get there: Walk from Melbourne Central to Elizabeth Street; it's only a 2-3 minute walk from the mall. Must-try recommendations: Wagyu Pepper Rice: The signature pepper rice is upgraded with Australian Wagyu beef, its aroma sizzling on the subway teppanyaki grill. Wagyu Sukiyaki: A popular choice on the new menu, the meat is tender and the sauce is rich. Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday until 10:30 PM, Thursday to Saturday with extended hours (Friday and Saturday until 2:00 AM). You can easily eat there after shopping. 💡 Helpful Tip: Book your Puffing Billy Steam Train tickets in advance: The Puffing Billy Steam Train is very popular, so it's recommended to book tickets early on the Puffing Billy website or a travel platform. Shopping Malls Close Early: Melbourne shopping malls usually close at 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM (usually until 9:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays). It's recommended to shop at the mall first and then have dinner. CBD Free Trams: Any tram ride within the CBD is free, no MyKi card required, making travel incredibly convenient. Additionally, train stations departing from Melbourne are themselves popular photo spots; even Jay Chou has taken a photo opposite one! Flinders Street Station is Melbourne's most iconic century-old landmark. Its Renaissance and Edwardian-style yellow facade and emerald dome offer strikingly different beauties during the day and night. To capture the most stunning photos and avoid the commuter crowds, here are some of the most popular photo spots, transportation options, and outfit suggestions: 📸 Best Photo Spot Recommendation: St. Paul's Cathedral Platform (Classic Front View Photo) Location: The platform outside the entrance of St. Paul's Cathedral, diagonally opposite the station. Features: This is the most recommended photo spot. Standing on the steps offers a slightly elevated vantage point, perfectly avoiding the surging crowds and clutter on the street, allowing for a complete and magnificent view of the entire yellow station, main arch, and clock. Jay Chou's Bench (Celebrity Pilgrimage Seat): Location: Also located in front of St. Paul's Cathedral. Features: This is the same bench where Jay Chou sat for a photoshoot. You can mimic his angle for a selfie, with the brightly lit Felida Station as a backdrop for a cinematic effect. Federation Square (Diagonal View and Street Photography): Location: Federation Square, directly opposite the station. Features: Standing next to the square's modern geometric architecture, you can capture a striking contrast between the modern landmark and the classic station. This spot is also perfect for capturing the everyday Melbourne street photography of people crossing the street when the green light is on, right at the edge of the traffic island. Princes Bridge (Traffic Light Trails and Distant View): Location: Princes Bridge, spanning the Yarra River, east of the station. Features: A photographer's paradise for capturing nighttime scenes and traffic light trails. You can capture the station, the Yarra River, and the modern CBD skyscrapers in the background – a truly impressive shot. Classic Retro Black and White Film Selfie Booth (Retro Souvenir Spot): Location: Flinders St Photo Booth inside the station. Features: This is an antique black and white film selfie booth that has been operating for over 65 years. Developing takes only 3 minutes (costs AUD 8, accepting only AUD 1 and 2 coins). The resulting retro four-panel photo is a very memorable souvenir. (Tip: After inserting the coins, sit down immediately against the wall, otherwise you'll miss the shot.) Actually, the Puffing Billy Railway, built in 1900, is Australia's oldest steam train and one of the best-preserved steam railways in the world. Originally built to develop remote areas of Victoria, it has now been transformed into a renowned tourist railway. ⏱️ Historical Development and Evolution: December 18, 1900: The railway officially opened, initially as a narrow-gauge branch line connecting Upper Ferntree Gully and Gembrook, transporting goods and passengers in the mountains. 1953: Due to landslides along the route and competition from automobiles, the railway was forced to close. 1955: A group of volunteers passionate about the railway formed the Puffing Billy Conservation Society, taking over restoration and operation, leading to the partial reopening of the line in 1962. 1962-1988: The railway line was restored and extended in phases, eventually restoring the complete route from Belgrave to Gembrook. 🪟 Classic Features and Cultural Tradition: Window Seating Experience: Since the introduction of open-plan carriages in the 1920s, passengers can sit on the window sills with their legs dangling naturally outside the carriage, becoming the most iconic experience of this train. Safety Controversy and Continuation: A level crossing accident in 2018 briefly led to the suspension of the leg-out rule. However, following strong public opposition and a petition, authorities implemented risk management measures, allowing the tradition to return in a specific section (Belgrave to Lakeside). Volunteer Spirit: To this day, the railway still relies on over 600 volunteers for maintenance, traversing the verdant Dandenong Ranges and forests daily.
Coast dreams
Melbourne bus tour kind of day 🚐 Started the morning rolling out from the city, heading down to Phillip Island — long coastal views, open skies, and that feeling of just getting away for a bit. Watching the ocean stretch endlessly while hopping off at different stops made the whole journey feel easy and slow. Then switching it up at Yering Station Winery 🍷 — vineyards, soft sunlight, and a calm that hits differently after being on the road. Sat down, took a sip, and just let the day unfold without rushing anything. From ocean breeze to wine country in one day… Melbourne really knows how to balance it all. #MelbourneDiaries #PhillipIsland #YeringStation #WineryVibes #BusTourLife #TravelSlow
Melbourne's Steam Railway Museum
Transportation Tips - Take the steam train from Belgrave Station to Menzies Station Local Attractions - Steam Locomotive Museum You can see the beautiful scenery of the mountains while riding on the steam train. After arriving at the station, you can see many different types of steam trains. There are nearly 10 locomotives from different eras in the exhibition hall. Railway fans will definitely like it. (I feel like I have really traveled back to the era of 19xx🤣🤣) #Melbourne #SteamTrain
What people are saying about Emerald
Puffing Billy Railway
Long train ride outside of the city. Surrounding Great nature. Worth to visit
Anonymous userDandenong Ranges National Park
I heard that the Chinese employees of Wilson factory said that Dandenong is good. In June 2012, a friend drove a group of three people to Dandenong. There were few cars and people, and the road was unimpeded. As soon as we entered the forest area, our breathing felt much deeper, and we felt energetic and refreshed. There were many people consuming at the mountaintop cafe, but there were still empty seats. We brought barbecue ingredients and barbecued on the lawn slightly lower than the cafe. From memory, this lawn is 6 to 8 meters wide and about 10 meters long. There are 6 barbecue tables, which are divided into two rows, with three in each row. Our barbecue actually attracted several laughing kookaburras, which are a bird unique to Australia and New Guinea. There were also several local Australians who came to taste our barbecue. After the barbecue, we cleaned up thoroughly. The environment here makes people feel very enjoyable and natural.
多多Melbourne Museum
A fantastic museum experience! The entire exhibition hall was beautifully designed, offering an immersive and interactive experience suitable for people of all ages. It allowed for close-up observation of dinosaur fossils and showcased different periods of Australian culture. I recommend allocating 4 to 5 hours for a visit.
M30***18Yarra Valley & Dandenongs Ranges
nice view from one of the yarra valley winery. good taste of wine and fresh smell of the air , love it
XyanaksaMoonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park
It's a great zoo where you can get up close and personal with the animals. It's better than other zoos. You can buy food and the animals will come over. The whole experience takes about an hour. Remember to make an appointment in advance to interact with the koalas, which will be longer and more interesting.
fupolarbearCarlton Gardens
Lovely place to walk past on the way to the Melbourne museum. This time of the year, there’s autumn leaves covering the walkways. There is even a small pond with some ducks in the corner. And right in front of the royal exhibition hall, there is a fountain where sometimes you will catch couples taking their wedding photos here.
MandadadadaTreetops Adventure Belgrave
Good place and good exercise. You need more strength for longer routes. Alternatively do the small and short ones. Good for kids
WeellieMelbourne Skydeck
I have completed summit of various tallest buildings and observatory decks. However Eureka Towers lacks the punch or experience and assuming that I was never designed from a commercial aspects. However being jn CBD, it does offer some spectacular views and photographic opportunities. But challenge always remains that Wearher should support u. The GenZ experiences like EDGE and VR are there but can be much better. Felt they are not value for money.
Avinash KhanapurDandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
We went for the ride with a group of 15 adults and children. We enjoyed the ride very much except for the rain. We took many pictures along the way. We saw many beautiful birds along the walking path around the entrance. There are many picnic tables and chairs around to stop and rest during the ride. It is an easy walk for both the elderly and children.
coo***anEmerald FAQ
Destinations near Emerald
Ballarat
2 hrs
Apollo Bay
3 hrs 6 mins
Phillip Island
1 hr 30 mins
Great Ocean Road
3 hrs 6 mins
Geelong
1 hr 42 mins
Recommended
Popular destinations
- Southampton Travel Guide
- Chongqing Travel Guide
- Banbury Travel Guide
- Memmingen Travel Guide
- Beijing Travel Guide
- Sal Travel Guide
- Shanghai Travel Guide
- Carnforth Travel Guide
- Alanya Travel Guide
- Zhangjiajie Travel Guide
- London Travel Guide
- Hangzhou Travel Guide
- Shenzhen Travel Guide
- Woking Travel Guide
- Sliema Travel Guide
- Kaipara Harbour Travel Guide
- Okrug Gornji Travel Guide
- Greater Tokyo Area Travel Guide
- Diamond Tree Travel Guide
- Marais Poitevin Travel Guide
Popular attractions
- SHIBUYA SKY Tickets
- Sagrada Familia Tickets
- Disneyland Paris Tickets
- Colosseum Tickets
- MuTianYu Great Wall Tickets
- The Land of Legends Theme Park Tickets
- Edinburgh Castle Tickets
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tickets
- Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park Tickets
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Tickets
- Tiananmen Square Tickets
- Universal Beijing Resort Tickets
- Liquidrom Tickets
- Exploration Deck · Viewing Gallery Tickets
- Vatican Museums Tickets
- Turibus 279 Tickets
- Jatiuca Beach Tickets
- Bagno Fabio 84 Tickets
- Castello Vicchiomaggio Tickets
- First Aliyah Museum Tickets
Popular events
- Canton Fair Autumn 2026 (140th Session)
- Canton of Geneva Travel Guide
- Bantanges Travel Guide
- Waco Travel Guide
- Yizhang Travel Guide
- Candisari Travel Guide
- Huangshan Scenic Area Travel Guide
- Putuo Mountain Scenic Area Travel Guide
- Albin Travel Guide
- Catalonia Travel Guide
- Zagreb County Travel Guide
- Lincheng Travel Guide
- Taihu Lake Travel Guide
- Qumarleb County Travel Guide
- Rong County Travel Guide
- Banbury Travel Guide
- Vancouver Travel Guide
- San Sai Travel Guide
- Ruili Travel Guide
- Arkansas Travel Guide