Parks & gardens touring route
Scented gardens and peaceful parks
Wander through the tall trees and fern-filled gullies of the Dandenong Ranges, discover historic sites in national parks, and manicured public gardens within an easy 60-minute drive of Melbourne.
Known for many years as Australia's garden state, Victoria has hundreds of beautiful public gardens and peaceful national parks. The south east is home to some of the best, including the National Rhododendron Gardens, huge hedge mazes, lavender gardens, a sculpture park with award-winning installations and nature parks that are home to Australian fauna.
56 km / 35 miles, 1 hr
While away the morning by the river then walk through the city to Carlton Gardens and Melbourne Museum.
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56 km / 35 miles, 1 hr
Journey through lush forests, visit the rhododendron garden, or watch red rosellas in the Alfred Nicholas Garden.
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140 km / 87 miles, 1.5 hr
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne then head to Phillip Island to see seals, penguins and koalas.
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105 km / 65 miles, 1 hr
Wander through coastal landscapes, explore Ashcombe Maze, or spend a lazy afternoon in the sculpture garden.
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Regions
Venture into Melbourne's basements, rooftops and laneways and discover gourmet feasts and fine wines, dynamic events, secret bars, boutiques and more.
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Combine the best of Europe's coastal living with traditional Aussie charm on the Mornington Peninsula, just an hour from Melbourne.
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Join families and fans of water sports travelling just 90 minutes from Melbourne to see penguins, international motor sports and waterfront living.
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Escape to the Yarra Valley for indulgent food and wine, and disappear into fern glades and forests in the Dandenong Ranges.
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