Discover the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley

Escape to the lush Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley, just 35 kilometers from Melbourne, Victoria. This area is a haven for foodies, artists, and nature enthusiasts, offering a plethora of attractions. To fully enjoy the scenic drives, consider renting a car from Melbourne.

Known as Victoria's "food bowl," the region's fertile soil and mild climate have supported farms since the 19th century. The Yarra Valley is also a historic wine-producing area. Visitors can enjoy beautiful gardens, wildlife, hiking trails, art galleries, quaint villages, and a historic steam train. The area is also home to the Indigenous Wurundjeri People, whose culture you can explore during your visit. Discover more about the best places to visit with our guide to the top tourist attractions in the Dandenong Ranges.

1. Healesville Sanctuary

Healesville Sanctuary offers a close-up look at Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, and platypuses. Enjoy bird shows and Aboriginal cultural experiences. Nearby, the town of Healesville invites foodies to savor local cuisine.

Address: Badger Creek Road, Healesville, Victoria

Official site: http://www.zoo.org.au/healesville

2. Dandenong Ranges National Park

With 3,215 hectares of forests and trails, Dandenong Ranges National Park is a nature lover's paradise. Enjoy scenic hikes, wildlife spotting, and picnics. Check for trail closures due to storm damage before visiting.

Official site: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/dandenong-ranges-national-park

3. Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden

Explore the vibrant Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, featuring a sensory garden and stunning views. Free entry with optional shuttle tours for a fee.

Address: The Georgian Road, Olinda, Victoria

Official site: https://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/national-rhododendron-garden

4. Dandenong Ranges Hiking & Walking Trails

Discover the Dandenongs' sensory delights on various hiking trails, from the easy Sherbrooke Falls walk to the challenging 1,000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk. Check for storm-related closures.

5. High Tea in the Dandenongs

Enjoy a traditional high tea experience at venues like Marybrooke Manor or indulge in an Asian-inspired high tea at Olinda Tea House & Restaurant.

6. Puffing Billy Steam Train

Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the Dandenong Ranges, enjoying open-air carriages and stunning landscapes.

Address: 1402 Mt. Dandenong Tourist Road, Mt. Dandenong, Victoria

Official site: http://puffingbilly.com.au/

7. Coombe Yarra Valley

Explore the former estate of Dame Nellie Melba, with guided tours of the gardens and gallery. Enjoy gourmet dining at the estate's restaurant.

Address: 673 - 675 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream, Victoria

Official site: https://coombeyarravalley.com.au/melba-estate

8. Olinda Village

Olinda, the highest village in the Dandenongs, offers galleries, restaurants, and proximity to beautiful gardens and scenic trails.

9. Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden

Stroll through the picturesque Alfred Nicholas Gardens, featuring a lake, boathouse, and waterfalls.

Address: Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke, Victoria

10. William Ricketts Sanctuary

Discover the serene William Ricketts Sanctuary, adorned with ceramic sculptures celebrating Aboriginal culture.

Address: 1402 Mt. Dandenong Tourist Road, Mt. Dandenong

11. Yarra Valley Dairy

Sample artisan cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy, set in a century-old milking shed.

Address: McMeikans Road, Coldstream, Victoria

Official site: http://www.yvd.com.au/

12. Cloudehill Gardens

Visit Cloudehill Gardens to enjoy the "garden rooms," sculptures, and seasonal beauty.

Address: 89 Olinda Monbulk Road, Olinda

Official site: http://www.cloudehill.com.au/

13. TarraWarra Museum of Art

Explore Australian art from the 1950s to the present at the TarraWarra Museum of Art, set in a picturesque location.

Address: 311 Healesville - Yarra Glen Road, Healesville, Victoria

Official site: http://www.twma.com.au/

14. Sassafras Village

Sassafras is a picturesque village with antique shops, cafés, and art galleries. Don't miss the traditional tea experience at Miss Marple's Tea Room.

For more travel inspiration, consider exploring the multicultural city of Melbourne, the stunning Great Ocean Road, or the Mornington Peninsula. Find more ideas for weekend getaways from Melbourne and the best places to stay in the city.