Tucked away just 20 km from Melbourne lies the idyllic suburb of Eltham, a haven for those seeking a perfect Sunday getaway. Blessed with natural beauty, a thriving arts scene, and a rich cultural heritage, Eltham offers an array of delightful activities to make your Sunday an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re yearning for serene encounters with nature, exploring local artistic treasures, or indulging in delectable culinary delights, this vibrant corner of Victoria has something to captivate every adventurer’s heart.

This article explores the hidden (and not so hidden!) gems that await you in Eltham. From wandering the farmer’s market to exploring scenic parks and gardens to treating yourself and the family to a delicious meal, you’re sure to have a fantastic time topping off your weekend in Eltham.

Things to Do on a Sunday in Eltham 

As Sunday unfolds, Eltham invites you to embark on a captivating journey of discovery, where shopping, nature, art, and culinary pleasures intertwine. Whether you’re a local seeking new adventures or a visitor exploring the wonders of Eltham, prepare for a day (or weekend) of fun!

1. Eltham Farmers Market

As Sunday morning wakes up and begs you to enjoy it, make your way to the Eltham Farmers Market. Held every Sunday from 8 am to 12:30 pm at 10- 18 Arthur Street, this farmers market is a bustling hub of activity and a haven for food enthusiasts.

Stroll along the rows of stalls, each adorned with an abundance of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and artisanal products. Here you can engage with friendly vendors who are passionate about their craft and eager to share their knowledge. Sample the succulent fruits, crisp vegetables, and homemade preserves, savouring the flavours that are sourced from the bountiful farms surrounding Eltham. And for all the sweet tooths out there, you’ll be pleased with the sweet treats available! All stallholders are from Victoria, with most being from northeast Melbourne, and all sell their own produce (no re-selling here!).

In addition to every Sunday’s farmers market, on the 4th Sunday of each month, there is a Food Swap held from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Here, people place their culinary contributions on a common table and make conversation (and friends!) with others doing the same. When it comes time to leave, take whatever you’d like from the table and carry on your merry way. While the original aim was food swapping, it’s now just as much about social connections! Feel free to come along and drop off your jam jars, homegrown fruits and veggies, and homemade preserves, and take home something you didn’t realise you needed until you saw it there for the taking.

Eltham Farmers Market is plastic bag-free, so please bring along your reusable bags or purchase your own at the information marquee for just $5.

2. Explore the Parks

After you’ve collected all the culinary goodies from the market, extend your Sunday in Eltham by immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural wonders that surround the suburb. There are so many parks and reserves to choose from that you won’t know where to start! However, we’ve got you covered. We recommend beginning with a picnic at Saddle Dam Picnic Area in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park, and then taking a wander around and gazing out over the water. Make sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife!

Or, you may wish to explore the pristine beauty of the Eltham Lower Park, where walking trails wind through lush greenery, offering a perfect escape from the bustling city life. Lose yourself in the tranquillity of the park’s meandering rivers and serene picnic spots as you reconnect with nature.

After that, make sure you check out Diamond Valley Railway, a must-see for when you’re in Eltham. Whether you’re exploring with kids or you are the big kid yourself, this miniature railway is fun for the whole family! Located in Eltham Lower Park, a team of dedicated volunteers keep the railway chugging along the circuit of the park. It has been running since the 1960s and is just as popular in 2023 as it was then! The train rides run for about 15 minutes, after which you can continue taking a look around and even enjoy an ice cream (if the weather permits!).

3. Fill Up on Deliciousness

Eltham Town is full of cafes and restaurants dedicated to tantalising your taste buds. As Sunday rolls around, Eltham’s cafes and restaurants come alive, offering a diverse range of flavours and culinary experiences that will entice even the most discerning palate.

Start your day with a leisurely brunch at one of Eltham’s charming cafes, such as Miss Pryor, Small Plates, or Cornercaf. Wherever you go, you won’t be disappointed! You’ll step into a cosy and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. From classic egg dishes and fluffy pancakes to innovative creations that blend local and international influences, the brunch offerings in Eltham are sure to satisfy every craving.

For lunch, venture into Eltham’s eclectic mix of restaurants that cater to various cuisines and tastes. Indulge in authentic Italian fare at Pierross Pasticceria Italiana, where pasta and wood-fired pizzas take centre stage. Alternatively, explore Asian flavours with fragrant Thai curries from Nongkhai Thai, sushi rolls from Sushi Wushi, or aromatic Indian dishes from Ginger Garlic that will transport your taste buds to distant lands.

As the day transitions into the evening, Eltham’s dining scene offers a range of options to elevate your Sunday dinner. From cosy family-owned bistros to stylish fine dining establishments, there is something to suit every occasion. Sample modern Australian cuisine that highlights locally sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Pair your meal with a fine selection of wines sourced from nearby vineyards, enhancing the dining experience with every sip.

4. Shop ‘Til You Drop

After exploring the vibrant market and parks and feeding your rumbling belly, wander through the enchanting streets of Eltham to peruse the retail offerings. Whether you’re searching for books, clothing, or a gift for somebody special, it’s all right here!

Delight in the quaint boutiques that line the streets such as Inzagi, Run to the River, and The Little Things in Life, each offering a distinct charm and an array of treasures waiting to be discovered. Browse through racks of clothing, both vintage and contemporary, and let your personal style be inspired by the unique fashion finds that Eltham has to offer.

If your wardrobe is overflowing as it is, maybe a trip to Eltham Bookshop is more your style. Here you’ll find literary classics, recent releases, and books in just about every niche you can think of! For something a little different, try pod&seed for vintage homewares and gardening essentials. And if you’re in the mood to treat yourself or somebody else, you can’t pass by Eltham Midway Jewellers and Magenta Creative Jewellery. Whatever it is you have in mind to buy, it’s waiting for you in Eltham Town!

5. Relax and Indulge

There’s no better way to wind down after an exciting weekend than with a relaxing massage. And you can do it right here! Eltham offers a range of options for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation through massage therapy. Whether you’re in need of a soothing Swedish massage, a therapeutic deep tissue session, or a rejuvenating spa experience, Eltham has several establishments such as Sentient Being, Srithai Thai Massage, and Vyve Beauty and Wellness, where you can unwind and pamper yourself.

These havens of relaxation provide a serene escape from the stresses of everyday life, making them the perfect way to cap off your Sunday. With skilled therapists offering a variety of massage techniques tailored to your specific needs, you can trust you’re in good hands! From gentle aromatherapy massages that uplift the senses to invigorating hot stone therapies that melt away tension, these massage and wellness centres in Eltham strive to provide a holistic and personalised experience, leaving you feeling blissfully restored.

Whether you’re an athlete seeking sports-related therapy before the new week begins or simply in need of a therapeutic session to alleviate muscle tension, the many wellness centres in Eltham always provide professional care in a soothing environment.

Eltham: Your Sunday Sanctuary

Whether you’re looking for food, fun, or both, Eltham is the place to do it! Between the Eltham Farmers Market, the numerous parks and nature reserves, and establishments catering to all your dining, shopping, and relaxing needs, there’s no better place to spend a Sunday. To unleash your weekend wanderlust and allow the charm of Eltham to create memories that will linger long after the day is done, pencil us in for your next weekend adventure.

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