Dandenong Ranges In Melbourne

Attractions of Dandenong Ranges

The best of the Dandenong Ranges attractions is the Puffing Billy steam railway ride. The train toots its way from Belgrave through thick forests, fern nettles and green farmlands and stops at Gembrook. This is the most perfect way to see the beauty of Dandenong without any hassle. Alfred Nicholas Memorial and the Dandenong Ranges botanic garden are two parks you can visit. There are towering mountain ash trees, a pristine lake and a boathouse to explore here through winding lanes in the first, while the second is covered in rhododendrons. William Rickett’s Sanctuary and its mysterious statues and the 1000 steps of the Kokoda Memorial Hall are the hidden treasures of Dandenong. There are multiple creeks, walking trails and trekking routes to explore. On the paths, trekkers can see Dandenong ranges waterfalls like Olinda and Sherbrooke. Summiting Mount Dandenong or Mount Corhanwarrabul and getting a glimpse of the entire valley below is one of the best trekking activities here.

Things to Do at Dandenong Ranges

Admire the beauty of the Alfred Nicholas Gardens: The gardens are surreal and aesthetically beautiful. Planted by two brothers, Alfred Nicholas and George, the gardens feature a collection of maples, gingkos, mountain ash, and liquid ambers.

Shop for Plants at Sassafras: There are many nurseries in Dandenong from where you can buy some exotic species of plants. The most famous one is in the Sassafras area called Conifer Gardens Nursery where you will find plant species like black pines, conifers, Japanese maples, etc.

Shop for antiques at Mangana: This is a good place to shop for antique things like postcards, antique furniture, vintage items, chess board, woven rugs, classic antique jewelry, and many such items.

Trek on the U-Pick Trail: The Dandenong Ranges are all covered with orchards and berry farms and U-Pick trail is a trail that allows the visitors to taste these fruits. There are also cellars on these farms where you can shop for local produce.

Soothe the Senses by Taking a Spa: There are a number of day spa centers at the Dandenong Range where you can take a relaxing and a soothing day spa. You can go to Mountain and Elle Natural and Japanese Mountain Retreat Mineral Springs and Spa as these two are one of the best day spa retreats in the area.