Fish, Swim, and Forage in Warburton, Victoria This Summer

Warburton is an all-seasons playground that’s less than 1.5 hours from Melbourne. Featuring the clear running Birrarung (Yarra River), ex-reservoir swimming holes, foraging and wild berries ripe for the picking, there’s more than enough adventure here to fill multiple afternoons.

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which this adventure takes place who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants, for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Quick Overview

Distance: 6km of choose-you-own-adventure loop walks
Duration: 30-minutes to several hours
Closest town: Warburton

Warburton is a town in Victoria famous for the Upper Yarra Reservoir and great swimming spots in the vicinity of the Yarra river. Driving from Melbourne, it takes around two hours to get there.

About Warburton

Warburton is the kind of place that makes you want to ditch your to-do list and just enjoy the moment. You can walk the trails, set up a picnic by the Birrarung, or even forage for some wild fruits, berries, and medicinal plants if you’re feeling adventurous.

The river’s clear mountain water is perfect for a swim or just floating around to cool off. And honestly, the forest air here feels so good you’ll swear it’s doing something healthy for you – it’s the perfect escape.

As well as excellent swimming spots you can expect opportunities for birdwatching, foraging, picnicking and photography!

How To Get to Warburton

Melbourne to Warburton via the M3 and Warburton Hwy: 1 hour 25 minutes.

There’s plenty of car parking down behind the Arts Centre and along the river.

From Warburton up Donna Buang: 17 km drive / 21 minutes.

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Skill Level

Beginner

There’s nothing tricky about these cute walks. The path undulates along the edge of the river and varies between pavers, gravel and some rock and dirt bits.

Essential Gear For Warburton

• Swimmers/Bathers/Togs
• Walking shoes
• Mozzie repellent – just in case
• Paper bag for your loot

What it’s Like to Visit Warburton

A late summer Sunday spent in Warburton will whisper away even the most belligerent hangover and set you up for the week ahead, stat. Depart Melbourne on the open highway, turning onto the winding, wonderful smelling Warburton Highway which will guide you right to the opposite wall of the Yarra Valley – Warburton is nestled in the foothills of the eastern Yarra Ranges.

Park your car behind the quaint main street, pull out the picnic blanket and get exploring the lush, green surrounds. 

There’s plenty of river bank to choose from, ranging from equipped BBQ sites to cosy green grassy nooks with large rocks to spread out on.

Get stuck into your sandwiches and observe ambitious fly fishermen or, if it’s quiet, sight the rare, shy platypus! Maybe sneak onto a little island via fallen logs dotted along the river’s edge and pretend to be Tom Sawyer for the day.

Yours for the Foraging

If you’re into foraging you can find native currents, brambles, gooseberry thickets and the biggest fig establishment you’ve ever laid eyes on, down in the park across the river.

You can also find wild passionfruit vines, stinkweed and mistletoe berries (if you’re lucky, a charismatic local will be running a guided walk – keep a lookout for Ranger Rem from Armoured Apothecary Foraging Tours).

There’s rock hopping to be done, bridges to run across, and curious little doorways and houses to discover in the bases of trees – fairies, or a cheeky local playing tricks? You decide.

The heart of Warburton (Warby to the locals) is definitely the river, which twists and winds its way right through the centre of town. With its rocky bottom, sandy, sometimes nutrient-rich clay banks and clear running water, you must spend some time splashing about and letting it run over you.

There’s nothing like a chirpy, bubbling river to lift the spirit and remind you how it feels to be one with country.

FAQs Warburton

What’s the best time of year to swim in Warburton?

The best time to swim here is during the warmer months – between November and March is the sweet spot.

Are there any family-friendly swimming spots in Warburton?

There are heaps of family-friendly swimming spots around town, especially along the calmer sections of the Yarra River. The riverbanks near the main town offer the easiest access, with plenty of shallow areas for kids, and space for picnics on the banks.

Table of contents image by Warburton Adventure Co.