Just an hour's drive to the east of Melbourne you will find the Dandenong Ranges. Rolling hills, winding valleys and a magnificent blend of native bush, lush vegetation and towering forests surround the Dandenongs. On a clear day the Dandenong Ranges can be seen from the centre of Melbourne.

The Dandenongs are a collection of small towns characterised by attractive houses nestled into the surrounding forests and some of the finest gardens in Australia. Many of the gracious old homes have been converted into quest houses and restaurants, enjoyed by Melbournian's as a traditional summer retreat.

At 633 metres above sea level, Mount Dandenong is the highest point of the ranges, and the summit here has breathtaking views of the surrounds, picnic facilities and a restaurant from which magnificent night time views of Melbourne's city lights can be seen.

When you drive through the Dandenongs you will understand why the locals claim this area, as "the best nature has to offer".

Emerald was the first settlement within the area and is situated on an elevated ridge. Tour through the many interesting galleries and art and craft shops. Tour through the surrounding country side stoping at lavender farms and attractive picnic spots.

Olinda is an attractive township and noted for its scenic situation and its many art, antique and handicraft galleries. The golf course on the Olinda-Monbulk Rd offers excellent views. Attracting thousands of visitors annually is the Rhododendron Gardens an outstanding botanic gardens home to thousand of rhododendrons, azaleas, daffodils, cherry tree groves, all of which come alive and blossom during spring.

Belgrave is made famous for housing Dandenongs most famous attractions, the Puffing Billy railway line which is a popular and loved by both children and adults. Jump on board and travel to Lake Emerald and then on to Gembrook. Each April, the Great Train Race is held were runners attempt to race Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Emerald Lake.




Distance

• 50 kms from Melbourne via the Burwood Hwy.

Highlights

• Each April, the Great Train Race is held were runners attempt to race Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Emerald Lake.
• Spring time at the National Rhododendron Gardens.

Activities

• Visit William Ricketts Sanctuary, a place of beauty and tranquillity due to both the natural setting and mystical kiln-fired clay sculptures half hidden within the rocks, ferns and trees.
• Take a ride on Buffing Billy, Australia's oldest surviving and most famous preserved steam railway. Enjoy the sights and surrounds of beautiful forests and fern gullies of the magnificent Dandenong Ranges.
• Visit the Puffing Billy Steam Museum at Menzies Creek displaying restored locomotives.
• Stroll through the many antique shops and galleries.
• Stop for Devonshire Tea and Scones at one of the many cafes and galleries

Related Links

Puffing Billy