Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Victoria state lies a hidden gem comprising a natural wonderland of lush forests, enchanting gardens, and picturesque villages. Welcome to The Dandenong Ranges!
Just a stone’s throw away from Melbourne, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. For nature lovers, history buffs, foodies, and those simply seeking a peaceful place to relax, this verdant region has something to captivate every visitor.
But what can you do there exactly? Here are 14 must-visit places in the Dandenong Ranges.
1. Puffing Billy Steam Railway
The Puffing Billy Steam Railway is an iconic heritage railway renowned for preserving the romance and nostalgia of steam travel. The railway, originally part of the Victorian Railways, operates a 2 ft 6 in (762 mm) narrow gauge track and features beautifully restored vintage steam locomotives and carriages. Visitors can embark on a scenic journey through the verdant forests and woodlands, gullies filled with fern and charming villages of the Dandenong Ranges.
One of its most famous sections includes the picturesque trestle bridge at Selby. You’ll want to have your camera ready to take photos of it. Overall, the Puffing Billy experience offers a ride and a step back in time, making it a beloved attraction for tourists and train lovers.
2. Sherbrooke Forest
If you love nature, you’ll want to visit Sherbrooke Forest.
This temperate rainforest is renowned for its lush greenery, towering Mountain Ash trees and tranquil ambience. The forest is a sanctuary for native wildlife, including colourful bird species and elusive lyrebirds. Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained walking trails that wind through the cool fern gullies, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
A highlight is the Sherbrooke Falls Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall surrounded by moss-covered rocks and ferns. It’s a place of serenity and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for bushwalks, birdwatching and immersing oneself in the captivating Australian wilderness.
3. William Ricketts Sanctuary
The William Ricketts Sanctuary is a unique and spiritually enriching art and nature haven worth visiting.
This extraordinary sculpture garden was created by William Ricketts, a talented Aussie-born artist and environmentalist who dedicated his life to preserving the natural beauty of the region and Australia’s indigenous culture. It is a captivating blend of art and nature, featuring intricate sculptures seamlessly merging with the lush rainforest surroundings. Ricketts’ sculptures depict Aboriginal figures, animals, and environmental themes, emphasising the harmony between humans and nature.
Visitors can wander along meandering pathways, discovering these awe-inspiring sculptures while enjoying the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the sanctuary. Overall, it’s a place that celebrates art and fosters a deeper connection with the environment and Indigenous heritage.
4. SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is a breathtaking lookout and leisure complex atop Mount Dandenong. Offering unparalleled panoramic views of the shimmering Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne’s cityscape and the surrounding regions, SkyHigh is a must-visit destination for those seeking awe-inspiring vistas.
This popular attraction features a restaurant called the SkyHigh Bistro, where visitors can savour a meal while enjoying the stunning scenery. It’s particularly enchanting at sunset and at night when the city lights twinkle below. Additionally, the complex includes beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a hedge maze, providing opportunities for both relaxation and exploration.
More than just a viewpoint, SkyHigh Mount Dandenong allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges while enjoying gourmet dining.
5. Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens
For those wanting to enjoy a moment of serenity, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is somewhat of a hidden gem in the Dandenong Ranges.
This enchanting garden, spread across 13 acres, is a serene retreat for nature and garden lovers. Named in honour of Alfred Nicholas, one of the inventors of Aspro pain relief tablets, the gardens feature a picturesque lake as its centrepiece, surrounded by lush lawns, vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas.
The gardens are meticulously landscaped, with charming stone bridges, meandering paths and peaceful picnic spots, making them ideal for a gentle stroll or a relaxed picnic. The gardens transform with the seasons, offering an ever-changing display of colours and scents, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the rustling leaves of autumn. So it doesn’t matter when you go there; you’ll always see it differently.
6. Olinda Falls
Olinda Falls is a picturesque natural wonder you should make a point of visiting.
This tranquil waterfall embodies the region’s pristine beauty. It is accessible via a scenic hiking trail that winds through lush temperate rainforest.
The falls cascade gracefully over moss-covered rocks, creating a serene and photogenic backdrop. Surrounded by towering Mountain Ash trees and verdant ferns, Olinda Falls offers a cool and refreshing escape, especially during the warmer months.
These falls are a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the ethereal beauty of the Dandenong Ranges. The short walk to the falls is well-marked and suitable for all ages, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful day in nature.
7. Dandenong Ranges National Park
When visiting Dandenong Ranges National Park its hard to believe you are just over an hour from Melbourne.
This vast park offers an array of well-marked trails, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes, catering to various fitness levels. Expect lush rainforests, fern-filled gullies, and towering eucalyptus trees. The Thousand Steps, a highlight, honours the Kokoda Track and offers an invigorating climb. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including colorful birds and wallabies.
The park is perfect for picnics and birdwatching. It also provides a peaceful escape into the Australian wilderness, making it an ideal day trip for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
8. The Cuckoo Restaurant
The Cuckoo Restaurant is an iconic dining establishment in the Dandenong Ranges. Enjoying a reputation as a unique and vibrant dining destination, it has satisfied the appetites of hungry travellers and locals since it opened in 1958.
The restaurant specialises in serving traditional Bavarian cuisine, offering a sumptuous buffet experience with a wide array of German dishes, including sausages, schnitzels, sauerkraut, and delectable desserts like Black Forest cake.
What sets The Cuckoo apart is its lively and entertaining atmosphere. Throughout your meal, yodelling performers will serenade you. Additionally, you will be able to enjoy live accordion music and even have the opportunity to participate in dances, creating an immersive and festive experience.
The restaurant’s authentic timber-framed interior and Bavarian decor transport guests to a cosy European chalet, making it a delightful place to savour hearty German fare and immerse oneself in Bavarian culture.
9. Sassafras Village
Sassafras Village is a charming and picturesque village known for its old-world charm, boutique shops and cosy tearooms.
Visitors are transported to a bygone era as they stroll through its quaint streets lined with heritage cottages, antique stores and galleries showcasing the works of local artisans.
Sassafras is particularly famous for its handmade chocolates, unique gifts and beautifully crafted jewellery. One of the village’s standout attractions is the iconic Miss Marple’s Tearoom, which offers a quintessential English tea experience in an enchanting setting.
The lush surroundings of Sassafras, including the towering mountain ash trees and tree ferns, create a serene ambience that invites leisurely exploration and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of the Dandenong Ranges’ timeless allure.
10. Grant’s Picnic Ground
Nestled amid the lush forest, Grant’s Picnic Ground is a tranquil and family-friendly spot to reconnect with nature over an al fresco meal. This popular destination also offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Australia’s native birdlife, specifically Crimson Rosellas and King Parrots.
At the picnic ground, you can purchase bird feed, and these colourful and friendly birds will often perch on your hand or shoulder, creating a memorable wildlife interaction. Apart from bird feeding, Grant’s Picnic Ground provides a picturesque setting for outdoor meals and leisurely walks. It features well-maintained walking tracks that wind through the scenic bushland, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere of the Dandenong Ranges.
Overall, it’s a serene and enchanting place to connect with nature and enjoy a delightful outdoor experience.
11. Cloudehill Gardens
Cloudehill Gardens is a horticultural masterpiece combining art, design and nature. This enchanting garden estate spans over seven acres and is renowned for its intricate and diverse garden rooms – each with its own unique theme and atmosphere.
Acclaimed garden designer Jeremy Francis created Cloudehill, which features a stunning collection of rare and exotic plants, including rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and more.
Visitors to Cloudehill can explore the meticulously landscaped gardens, meander along winding pathways and discover serene courtyards and terraces. The garden also includes a charming walled garden, topiary-lined walkways and vibrant perennial borders.
Whether you’re a dedicated plant enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape in a beautifully cultivated environment, Cloudehill Gardens offers a serene and inspirational experience for all who visit. What makes the destination so unique is that it’s a place where the artistry of gardening meets the wonders of the natural world, creating a truly magical destination in the Dandenong Ranges.
12. Emerald Lake Park
Emerald Lake Park, nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, is both a picturesque natural haven and a popular destination for locals and tourists. This stunning park covers 60 hectares and centres around the serene Emerald Lake, fringed by lush lawns, shady picnic spots and beautiful gardens.
Visitors to Emerald Lake Park can enjoy various outdoor activities, including fishing, paddle boating and swimming in the lake during the summer months. There’s a fantastic playground for kids, a model railway that operates on Sundays and a cafe offering refreshments.
The park is also home to the famous Puffing Billy Railway, with its station located on the lake’s edge, making it a convenient starting point for scenic train rides through the Dandenong Ranges.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, family fun, or a romantic lakeside stroll, Emerald Lake Park provides a delightful escape into nature’s beauty.
13. Tree Fern Gully
Tree Fern Gully is another captivating natural wonder in the Dandenong Ranges.
As its name suggests, this lush gully is a haven for towering tree ferns, creating an otherworldly and prehistoric ambience. The gully is part of the Sherbrooke Forest, offering a serene escape into a tranquil and verdant landscape.
Visitors to Tree Fern Gully can follow well-marked walking trails that wind through the ancient forest, immersing themselves in a world of lush ferns, moss-covered rocks, and the soothing sounds of running water. The atmosphere in the gully is cool and refreshing, making it a pleasant destination on a hot day.
Tree Fern Gully is a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of ancient forests. Therefore, it’s an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking solace and connection with the unique flora of the Dandenong Ranges.
14. Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead
The Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead is a captivating heritage site located in the heart of the Yarra Valley. This well-preserved homestead offers visitors a glimpse into the history of rural life in the 19th century. The property includes a beautifully restored homestead, complete with period-accurate furnishings and artefacts, providing a window into the daily life of early settlers.
The Mont De Lancey features an extensive collection of historical buildings on the site, including a blacksmith’s shop, a chapel, a vintage car and machinery display and a heritage rose garden. These structures and exhibits comprehensively depict the region’s agricultural and pastoral history.
Visitors can explore the picturesque gardens and enjoy picnics on the grounds, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience. It is worth visiting Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead because it preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of the Yarra Valley. Congruently, it also offers an educational and immersive journey through time.