Dandenong Ranges in one day
Recommended duration: 1 day
Total distance: Melbourne–Olinda–Melbourne 95 kilometres
Driving time: Melbourne–Olinda–Melbourne 2 hours
Highlights
- Tall trees
- Olinda
- Devonshire teas
- Antique shops
- Puffing Billy Steam Railway.
Under an hour from Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges is a popular destination for many city dwellers. As you follow the winding road up through thick, tall forests and cool fern gullies you will feel the bustle and fast pace of the city fall away.
Wander through one of the area’s famous gardens including the National Rhododendron Gardens near Olinda, home to more than 27,000 azaleas and rhododendrons and a spectacular sight in early spring. Sherbrooke Forest allows you to experience the towering forests first-hand.
The mountain retreat of the George Tindale Gardens is at its best in summer, while the huge old trees of the Alfred Nicholas Gardens look glorious in their autumn colours.
Not far along the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, William Ricketts Sanctuary displays half-hidden clay sculptures of Aboriginal figures among rocks and tree ferns.
Dotted through the Dandenong Ranges are lively villages filled with antique shops, art galleries and plenty of places to eat. Stop for a famous Devonshire tea, or sit down for a leisurely meal at one of the region’s great restaurants.
Stretch your legs and climb aboard Australia’s oldest steam train, Puffing Billy. The historic train chugs 25 kilometres from Belgrave to Emerald Lake and on to Gembrook. Time your train ride to enjoy morning or afternoon tea or enjoy a first-class meal in the refurbished dining cars – a great way to end a great day in the Dandenong Ranges.
