Donnellys Weir - Image 1
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Donnellys Weir

4.4
·104 reviews·Healesville, Australia

A serene picnic spot and trailhead in Healesville, Victoria, offering challenging hikes and natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry Season Mornings

Easier creek crossing

CrowdLow
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Donnellys Weir - Image 1

Donnellys Weir

Best Time

Dry Season Mornings

Easier creek crossing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene picnic spot and trailhead in Healesville, Victoria, offering challenging hikes and natural beauty.

4.4
(104 reviews)

"Beautiful spot for a picnic with a challenging hike reward!"

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TIP

🚗 Vehicle Choice Matters

A creek crossing is required for picnic area access. SUVs and higher clearance vehicles are recommended.

💧 Bring Your Own Drinks

Water at the weir is untreated. Pack all your drinking water and beverages.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Donnellys Weir Picnic Area

Donnellys Weir Picnic Area

Healesville, Victoria

A serene picnic spot by the water, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's tranquility.

Challenging Hill Trail

Challenging Hill Trail

Near Donnellys Weir

Tackle a steep, rewarding hike with significant elevation for breathtaking views.

Maroondah Reservoir Park Trail

Maroondah Reservoir Park Trail

Connecting trail

Explore walking tracks leading to the nearby Maroondah Reservoir Park for extended nature immersion.

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Planning Your Visit

Creek Crossing Caution

Access to the picnic area involves a creek crossing. While SUVs and most cars can manage, low-clearance vehicles might struggle. Check conditions after rain.

Pack Your Own Water

The water at Donnellys Weir is not treated. It's essential to bring all your own drinking water and any other beverages you might need for your visit.

Best Times

When
Dry Season Mornings
Why
Easier creek crossing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How pretty is Donnellys Weir Picnic Area? Only 5kms from the centre of Healesville, this stunning spot is a great place to have a picnic, dip your toes in the water and check out some of the walking tracks including one which will take you to nearby Maroondah Reservoir Park. Please be mindful that after periods of heavy rain, there may be potholes and water on the dirt road leading to the ar...
yarravalleydandenongranges
231 likes • 10K views

🚗 Vehicle Choice Matters

A creek crossing is required for picnic area access. SUVs and higher clearance vehicles are recommended. Reddit

💧 Bring Your Own Drinks

Water at the weir is untreated. Pack all your drinking water and beverages. Reddit

A moment I'm so very proud of. Making it to finish line of the @national_trail at Donnellys Weir, Healesville. It's strange to think back to the very beginning of this journey. Before I left I was filled with self doubt. Uncertain whether I'd even make it through the first week let alone the first month or even a year. I recall one moment feeling completely immobilised by fear. I started to convin...
triplethree.walkthere
155 likes • 2.6K views
Donnellys Weir Picnic Area. Healesville, Victoria.
up_and_gone_walkabout
71 likes • 2K views

🥾 Conquer the Hill Hike

The challenging incline offers a great sense of accomplishment and stunning views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Trails

Connect to trails leading to Maroondah Reservoir Park for more hiking adventures. Instagram

Exploring at home today, the stunning Donnellys Weir in the Yarra Valley #holidayherethisyear #holidayharrisons #donnellysweir #yarravalley
australian_escapades
69 likes • 396 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Vehicle Choice Matters

A creek crossing is required for picnic area access. SUVs and higher clearance vehicles are recommended. Reddit

💧 Bring Your Own Drinks

Water at the weir is untreated. Pack all your drinking water and beverages. Reddit

🥾 Conquer the Hill Hike

The challenging incline offers a great sense of accomplishment and stunning views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Trails

Connect to trails leading to Maroondah Reservoir Park for more hiking adventures. Instagram

🎨 Artistic Inspiration

A beautiful spot for plein air painting and creative pursuits. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(104 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Donnellys Weir is a beautiful and peaceful picnic spot, praised for its natural scenery and challenging hiking trails. Visitors appreciate the tranquility and the rewarding views from the hill climbs. However, the creek crossing to access the picnic area can be a significant hurdle for some vehicles, and it's essential to bring your own drinking water as the weir's water is untreated.

"Requires a creek crossing no formed parth to get to picnic area otherwise short walk to view weir note there is a creek crossing to get to car park ok in SUV just use common sense on approach"

david lucas

"When my friend and I visited Donnellys Weir Picnic Area with Mylee, their sausage dog, it turned into quite the adventure. We drove there in an SUV, which made crossing the shallow creek easy. The area itself was peaceful, with clean picnic spots and well-maintained toilets. Since the water isn’t treated, we had brought our own drinks, which I highly recommend.

The highlight of the trip was tackling the trail up the massive hill. At 900 feet above sea level with a challenging 45-degree incline, it tested us, but the sense of accomplishment at the top was worth every step. Mylee handled the climb like a champ, her excitement keeping us motivated.

After the hike, we relaxed a bit at the weir before heading to Beechworth Bakery for a hearty meal. It was the perfect way to end the day—enjoying good food and reflecting on a fun and fulfilling outing in nature."

Luke Warburton

"My favourite place in Victoria, this is a stunning picnic spot. You do have to do a water crossing to get to the picnic area, so make sure you're driving the right car."

Caitlin

What People Like

Peaceful picnic atmosphere
Challenging hiking trails
Beautiful natural scenery

What People Dislike

Creek crossing accessibility
Untreated water supply

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Donnellys Weir is located near Healesville, Victoria. Access to the picnic area involves a creek crossing, so an SUV or vehicle with good clearance is recommended. The road can be narrow and unsealed. Reddit+1

The road is narrow and unsealed, and there's a creek crossing. While many cars have managed, it's not recommended for 2-wheel drive vehicles or those with low clearance, especially after rain. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to the picnic area, but be prepared for a creek crossing. Common sense is advised, and it's best to assess the water depth before proceeding. Reddit

Yes, Donnellys Weir is a starting point for several walking tracks, including one that leads to Maroondah Reservoir Park. Instagram

Public transport options to Donnellys Weir are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle, especially considering the creek crossing. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entry fee mentioned for Donnellys Weir Picnic Area. It's a natural spot for public enjoyment. Instagram+1

Donnellys Weir is a natural area and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted. Instagram

Picnic spots are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or public holidays. Instagram

Yes, there are well-maintained toilets available at the Donnellys Weir Picnic Area. Reddit

While you can dip your toes in the water, swimming is not explicitly recommended as the water is not treated. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy picnics, short walks, photography, and challenging hikes up nearby hills. It's a great spot for nature lovers. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! There are various walking tracks, including a challenging hill hike with significant elevation and trails connecting to Maroondah Reservoir Park. InstagramReddit

The picnic area is relatively flat, but the surrounding trails can be steep and challenging, with some inclines and unsealed paths. InstagramReddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Donnellys Weir, as seen with Mylee the sausage dog enjoying the picnic and hike. Reddit

The area boasts a variety of flora, making it an interesting spot for nature observation and photography. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Donnellys Weir has picnic areas, but no on-site food vendors. It's recommended to pack your own food and drinks. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned, picnic areas often accommodate BBQs. It's best to check local regulations or bring a portable grill if permitted. Instagram

Nearby Healesville offers various dining options, including cafes and bakeries. Beechworth Bakery is a popular choice mentioned by visitors. Reddit

Pack your food, drinks (especially water as the weir water is untreated), picnic blanket, and any utensils you'll need. Reddit

Yes, the town of Healesville, just a short drive away, has several restaurants and cafes catering to visitors. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the serene weir, the surrounding lush greenery, and the challenging hill views. The creek crossing itself can also make for interesting shots. Instagram

The natural beauty, including the water, trees, and elevated viewpoints, offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife or distant views from the hilltops. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Donnellys Weir can be a fun outing for families, provided you're prepared for the creek crossing. If you have a suitable vehicle, the picnic area offers a lovely spot for a family meal amidst nature. Reddit+1 Remember to pack plenty of water, as the weir's water is untreated. Reddit The surrounding walking tracks offer opportunities for short, manageable strolls for younger children, while older kids might enjoy the challenge of a steeper hike. Dogs are also welcome, making it a great spot for the whole family, including pets! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, Donnellys Weir is a fantastic base. You can embark on the challenging hill climb for rewarding views or explore the trails connecting to Maroondah Reservoir Park. Instagram+1 The area is part of longer trekking routes like the National Trail, offering opportunities for day hikes or multi-day adventures. Instagram+1 Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and carry ample water, as some trails are steep and unsealed. Reddit

🎨 Artists and Photographers

The serene beauty of Donnellys Weir makes it a prime location for artists and photographers. Capture the tranquil water, the surrounding forest, and the dramatic elevation changes. Instagram The play of light through the trees and the natural landscape offer endless creative inspiration. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best photographic light. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Creek Crossing

The most distinctive feature for accessing Donnellys Weir Picnic Area is the creek crossing. This isn't a bridge, but rather a shallow water passage. While many visitors in SUVs and similar vehicles report making the crossing with ease, it's crucial to exercise caution. The road is described as narrow and unsealed, and the creek's depth can fluctuate significantly, especially after periods of rain. A sign explicitly warns against 2-wheel drive vehicles, so if you're in a standard sedan, it's best to park before the crossing and walk the rest of the way. Always assess the water depth and flow before attempting the crossing to avoid getting stuck or damaging your vehicle. Reddit+1

This natural obstacle adds an element of adventure to the visit, but also means that accessibility can be a concern for some. Visitors with mobility issues or those not comfortable with the creek crossing might find it challenging to reach the main picnic area. However, the effort is often rewarded with a more secluded and peaceful experience once you're there. Reddit

Hiking Adventures from Donnellys Weir

Donnellys Weir is more than just a picnic spot; it's a gateway to some rewarding hikes. For those seeking a physical challenge, the trail leading up a massive hill is a must-try. This hike features a significant incline, described as a challenging 45-degree ascent, reaching an elevation of 900 feet. The sense of accomplishment at the summit is a major draw for many visitors. Reddit

Beyond the immediate hill climb, Donnellys Weir also serves as a point on longer trails, including routes that connect to the Maroondah Reservoir Park. These trails offer varied terrain and flora, appealing to both casual walkers and more experienced hikers. Some epic hikes, like a 37km journey to Mt St Leonard's and back, start or pass through this area, showcasing the Yarra Valley's natural beauty. Instagram+1

When planning a hike, remember to wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and be aware of the trail conditions, especially after rain. The National Trail also passes through this region, making it a significant point for long-distance trekkers. Instagram+1

A Tranquil Picnic Experience

The Donnellys Weir Picnic Area is celebrated for its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty. It's an ideal spot to unwind, enjoy a meal, and connect with nature. The area is generally well-maintained, with clean picnic spots and facilities like toilets adding to the comfort of visitors. Reddit

It's important to note that the water at the weir is not treated, so visitors are strongly advised to bring all their own drinking water and beverages. This is a key piece of advice echoed by those who have visited. Reddit Despite this, the serene setting, surrounded by lush greenery, makes it a favorite for many, including those who bring their furry companions along for the day. Reddit

For those looking for a creative outlet, the picturesque setting has also inspired artists, with some visitors enjoying plein air painting sessions by the water. Instagram The combination of natural beauty and tranquility makes Donnellys Weir a delightful escape. Instagram+1

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