Drive just a little over an hour out from Melbourne to Olinda and feel the bustle and fast pace of the city fall away as you follow the winding road up through the thick, tall forests and cool fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges.
The Dandenong Ranges is a haven of hidden delights with scenic winding roads to quaint hilltop villages. There is an abundance of artist studios, craft stores and renowned gardens to explore as well as walking and cycling trails through mountain ash forests and clean, refreshing air.
Olinda and Sassafras – At the top of the Dandenong Ranges, surrounded by stunning gardens, these villages are a sight to behold all year round. The shopping is an experience in itself with many quaint, unique shops.
The Dandenong Ranges holds many events that are perfect for a day-trip from Melbourne. Annual events such as The Chestnut Festival in Kalorama and Autumn Authors showcase the Dandenong Ranges’ splendour throughout the seasons.
The Dandenong Ranges is a cool climate region with average temperatures of: Summer – 26.6°C Autumn – 20.4°C Winter – 14.1°C Spring – 19°C. If travelling over the warmer months, do take note of Bushfire Safety.
The State & National Parks in the Dandenong Ranges are free to enter. Here are some other noteworthy stops and activities along the way and on arrival.
Tall trees and grand gardens
Explore the towering forests of mountain ash trees firsthand in Sherbrooke Forest, and visit the area’s famous gardens according to the season. See the spectacular sight of thousands of rhododendrons in bloom in early spring. 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. Find the half-hidden clay sculptures of Aboriginal figures among rocks and tree ferns at William Ricketts Sanctuary, not far along the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road.
Take tea in the villages before boarding a very famous train
Stop for a famous Devonshire tea, or sit down for a leisurely meal at one of the great eateries dotted through the Dandenong Ranges’ lively villages. Browse the antique shops and art galleries. 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 as a great way to end a memorable day in the Dandenong Ranges.
Getting to the Dandenong Ranges
By Road – From Melbourne
City to Dandenong Ranges (via Eastlink Tollway) – Make your way onto the Eastern Freeway and travel towards Ringwood. The Eastern Freeway turns into the Eastlink Toolway after Springvale Road. If you have an Eastlink or Citylink pass, continue on the Eastlink Tollway and go through the Mullum Mullum tunnel. Take the Canterbury Road exit, then turn left towards Montrose. Once in Montrose, take the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and follow through to the Dandenong Ranges.
By Public Transport
Public Transport Victoria has regular trains heading to Belgrave Station. From Belgrave Station, catch a Ventura bus to Olinda and Sassafras.
Travel Times (by road)
- Melbourne to Olinda (49kms) – 55 minutes
- Melbourne to Belgrave (46kms) – 45 minutes
- Healesville to Olinda (39kms) – 40 minutes
- Healesville to Belgrave (45kms) – 45 minutes
For more visit https://visitdandenongranges.com.au/
