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RJ Hamer Arboretum

National Parks and Reserves

RJ Hamer Arboretum

Arboretum is a Latin word meaning a place for trees. Here you will find over 150 species of native and exotic trees in plantations designed to represent forests, creating a patchwork effect over the hills. Take a quiet, peaceful stroll along the many walking tracks and roads of the Arboretum and take in the tranquil beauty and stunning scenery across the Yarra Valley out to the Warburton Ranges and beyond. The majestic gums and oaks and the ornamental willows and birches are at their best in the summer. A rich array of autumn colours provides spectacular views, from the fiery red, oranges and crimsons of the liquidambers and maples, to the subtle paling of the deciduous conifers. In winter, the tranquil resting of the deciduous trees contrasting with the early flowering species among a mystic lake of low hanging clouds, offers viewing delight. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Olinda VIC

1.0 km away

iKOU Spa treatments — Image credit: iKOU

Spas and Retreats

Natural Wellness Centre

Natural Wellness Centre is a boutique day spa and wellness centre in the Dandenong Ranges that offers a range of services to inspire you to rest, relax and restore, with a thoughtfully designed menu including luxury organic facials, wellness rituals, body scrubs, cocoons and massage to harmonise skin, mind and body. Their experienced and friendly staff are proud Spa Associates working exclusively with iKOU skin and body products throughout all treatments. iKOU is pure, organic and Australian-made, using indigenous ingredients and is a sensory experience that not only deeply relaxes, but connects you with the true heart of this ancient land. The Natural Wellness Centre eco-store offers a carefully selected range of Australian organic skin and body products, herbal tea blends and eco products to support your health naturally. A place to unwind, Natural Wellness Centre is a space to feel relaxed and supported. Get in touch today to plan your next visit. Double and group bookings are available.

Monbulk VIC

1.4 km away

Hot summer border at Cloudehill

Parks and Gardens

Cloudehill Gardens and Nursery

Cloudehill is a garden at the top of the Dandenongs in Olinda, and is internationally famous for garden rooms overflowing with flowers and magnificent artwork all year round. Some 25 garden compartments are divided by stone walls and hedges. They include Australia's finest summer borders, peony gardens, a spring shrub walk, bluebell woodlands, extensive bulb meadows, and a 'green theatre' which hosts the Summer twilight concert series. Deep volcanic soil and moist mild weather allow plants to reach majestic proportions. The weeping Japanese maples at the heart of the garden are of serious significance. Imported from the legendary Yokohama Nursery in Japan they have been growing on the property since 1928. The Diggers Club operates Cloudehill's nursery and garden shop, stocking heirloom seeds and mature trees, as well as many of the seasonal plants to be found in the gardens. Seasons Restaurant provides a unique dining experience using fresh local produce. Chojo Feature Trees carries an extensive range of Bonsai, pre-Bonsai trees and accessories. Staying at the Woolrich Estate House and Cottage are located next to Cloudehill is the ideal location to explore the Dandenong Ranges. Check the website for family holiday trails, educational events and seasonal updates before planning your trip.

Olinda VIC

1.7 km away

Pirianda Gardens — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Pirianda Garden

Designed to take advantage of the steep slopes, the terraced woodland garden of Pirianda contains a unique collection of plants, including many botanically important trees, unusual shrubs and perennials. Featuring beautiful spring displays, Pirianda Garden is best known for its autumn colours and tree collection, including 28 different types of maples and 13 birch varieties. With magnificent views and a backdrop of ever-changing colours, photographers and bird watchers are in for a treat, while the lawns are perfect for spreading out with a picnic feast. Meander through the tranquil garden at your leisure, making your way from the grassy areas, through the terraces, and down to peaceful fern gullies beneath towering blackwoods and mountain ash. Pirianda Garden is open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day except Christmas Day, days of Total Fire Ban, Severe Weather events and major works. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Olinda VIC

2.1 km away

Chelsea Garden at Olinda — Image credit: Parks Victoria

Parks and Gardens

Chelsea Australian Garden at Olinda

Located within the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, the Chelsea Australian Garden at Olinda is a permanent display, featuring an enormous Waratah sculpture, waterfall and billabong. Over 15,000 plants have been used in the design, with over 400 different Australian species. Wander around the sealed paths and discover an amazing variety of building materials, plant shapes and beautiful vistas. Sit and listen to the frogs and birds. Discover the interpretive signs and read more about this enormous project. If you have time bring a picnic and enjoy the spacious lawn next to the stunning Boab trees. Built on an unused grassed area of the former Olinda Golf Course, this feature enhances the environment by introducing additional rare and endangered plant species and providing more native habitats for plants and animals. The garden also provides a fantastic opportunity for locals and tourists to connect with Australian nature and learn about native plants and sustainable landscape design. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit the website.

Olinda VIC

2.8 km away

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden. Credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden

The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden (formerly the National Rhododendron Garden) is host to brilliantly coloured blooms of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, cherries and daffodils. Seasonal changes ensure the gardens are a delight all year around. When not in bloom, you can still soak in the beauty of rich bark textures, seed capsules, foliage shapes and beautiful fragrance as you stroll through the grounds. Parks Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria - including its parks and reserves. Through their cultural traditions, Aboriginal people maintain their connection to their ancestral lands and waters. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website.

Olinda VIC

2.8 km away

Tealeaves - Olinda

Shopping and Markets

Tealeaves

Step through the doors of Tealeaves, Olinda, and discover a whole new world of tea. Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, their brand-new, expansive store offers an inviting sanctuary where tea lovers can explore and indulge. A beautifully designed interior with full wheelchair access, Tealeaves Olinda is a space for everyone to enjoy. Shelves lined with exquisite teas from across the globe invite you to experience the finest selections, handpicked over three decades of dedication. From the most delicate English porcelain to the most whimsical and quirky novelty teapots, their collection of tea wares is a delight for collectors and casual sippers alike. Their knowledgeable and passionate staff are always on hand to share their expertise, guiding you through the art of tea and helping you find the perfect brew or accessory. Whether you're a seasoned tea connoisseur or just beginning your journey, you'll feel right at home here. At Tealeaves, they cherish the tradition of exceptional quality and service. They invite you to step inside, breathe in the rich aromas of their world-class teas, and let them take you on a journey of taste and tradition. Welcome to Tealeaves, Olinda—where tea is more than a drink; it's an experience.

Olinda VIC

2.9 km away

Facial Serum

Shopping and Markets

Soap Opera Australia

Formulated to moisturise and restore the natural balance of hair, body and face, their pampering products are handmade with high quality, plant-derivatives, certified organic ingredients and pure essential oils. They believe everyone should experience the benefits of luxurious, natural and sustainable skincare. Soap Opera products are 100 per cent pure and natural, designed to clean, moisturise and scent the body, without harsh chemicals, parabens or preservatives and without testing on animals.

Olinda VIC

2.9 km away

Melbournes most impressive hat experience — Image credit: Oska Truffaux

Shopping and Markets

Truffaux - Best Hat Shop in Australia

Internationally renowned hat shop with a deep love for Panama hats, fedoras, felts, caps, berets, scarves and quirky night lights. A mecca for hat lovers, nestled in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. Hand-crafted hats from across the Earth, expertly fitted by true professionals who know their trade. Hat steaming, repairs and advice flow through them. Manufacturing their iconic Panama hats in Ecuador and distributing them worldwide from Olinda. They also carry the finest hats from Akubra, Stetson, Brixton, Borsalino, Mucros, Avenel, Barmah, Thomas Cook and many more. Having built stores in Hawaii, France and Japan, they have returned home to their mountain forest, to raise their family and love everyone. Come and enjoy the best hat experience of your life.

Olinda VIC

3.0 km away

Sherbrooke Falls Walk

Natural Attractions

Sherbrooke Falls Walk

Sherbrooke Picnic Ground and O'Donohue Picnic Ground are located in Sherbrooke Forest, the largest section of the Dandenong Ranges National Park. A number of walking trails start from the well-equipped picnic grounds, entering a fantastic rainforest of spectacular Mountain Ash, stringybark, lush tree ferns and, of course, waterfalls. Take the Sherbrooke Track or O'Donohue Track which take you deep in to Sherbrooke Forest to the falls. They are well signposted. Little creeks cascades into a gully, creating a small waterfall and obscured by tree ferns, but the real star of this walk is the rainforest as a whole. This is the kind of hike best enjoyed after rain, when you can smell the aromas of the forest and the waterfall is flowing. Lyrebirds and other wildlife also like to come out after the rain, so you will be in good company!

Kallista VIC

3.5 km away

Grants Picnic Ground

Parks and Gardens

Grants Picnic Ground

Grants Picnic Ground sits on the edge of the beautiful Sherbrooke Forest the largest section of the Dandenong Ranges National Park. Enjoy a picnic with lyrebirds, Crimson Rosellas and Rainbow Lorikeets as company. A number of walking tracks start at the picnic ground, be dwarfed by towering Mountain Ash trees in this small pocket of cool temperate rainforest. Grants Picnic Ground is a universally accessible destination including picnic tables and barbeque which are located directly in front of the disabled parking bays. The Margaret Lester Forest Walk is a purpose-built walking track for people with limited mobility. The walk was designed with assistance by Margaret Lester, who was a architecture graduate and paraplegic. The path contains 200 metres of asphalt path on a gentle gradient. It stretches through the forest and fern glades from the middle to upper carparks. Along the path there are information boards about the forest and its ecosystem.

Sherbrooke VIC

3.5 km away

Mt Dandenong Circuit

Natural Attractions

Mt Dandenong Circuit

The circuit trail through Mount Dandenong provides great views over Melbourne from SkyHigh Mt Dandenong. The track is through forested areas, some paths are overgrown and may be closed. The circuit links two sections of the Dandenong Ranges National Park. Keep an ear out for lyrebirds who are frequently heard in this area. Reasonable fitness level is required. The full Dandenong Ranges Circuit is a 15.7km, grade three hike and typically takes 4.5 hours to complete. Note: Parts of the Dandenong Ranges National Park can be closed due to significant storm damage/ inclement weather. Please check the Parks Victoria's website for the latest updates.

Olinda VIC

3.7 km away

Olinda Heritage Walk

Landmarks and Buildings

Olinda Heritage Walk

The Olinda Heritage Walk provides a snapshot of village life in the Dandenong Ranges during the early 1900s. The Mt Dandenong and District Historical Society have developed the self-guided Olinda Heritage Walk to provide a lasting record of the beginnings and development of the Olinda Township. The walk is on paved paths and is accessible to wheelchairs and prams. It takes roughly an hour to leisurely walk it, longer if you decide to browse the shops.

Olinda VIC

3.7 km away

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

National Parks and Reserves

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is the original garden of the historic Burnham Beeches estate, renowned for its extensive water features. Delightful all year round, choose your own adventure along the many linking paths beneath the canopy of Mountain Ash trees as you stroll through the garden. Make your way down to the picturesque lake for a picnic by the quaint boathouse, take a seat in the gazebo and admire the intriguing sculpture by Mark Stoner, or simply enjoy walking your dog (on lead) through the changing landscape of blooms and foliage. Open daylight hours, seven days except on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating or severe weather events. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit the Emergency Victoria website.

Sherbrooke VIC

3.7 km away

George Tindale Memorial Gardens

National Parks and Reserves

George Tindale Memorial Gardens

The George Tindale Memorial Garden contains a number of plants rarely found in cultivation, which are thriving in the acidic soils, cool temperate climate and shaded conditions found in the Dandenong Ranges. Extensive collections of magnolias, rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas and hydrangeas will delight garden enthusiasts. The gardens offer something new with each season - a myriad of flowers in spring; hydrangeas and lilliums in summer; a canopy of gold, red, orange and burgundy in Autumn and the flowers of the Lenten Rose or Hellebore beneath flowering shrubs in winter. Opening hours: George Tindale Memorial Garden is open 10:00am to 5:00pm every day except Christmas Day, days of Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating, Severe Weather events and major works. Check current conditions on the day of your planned visit to confirm it is open. George Tindale Memorial Gardens is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri People. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Sherbrooke VIC

3.8 km away

Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track

Natural Attractions

Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track

The Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track passes through fern-filled gullies, eucalypt covered ridges and over numerous bridges and boardwalks. The walk is graded moderate to easy with some undulating terrain and some steeper sections, including stairs up to the back road at Emerald. The Sassafras end starts behind the Community Hall. Edwardian Victorians would visit the Dandenong Ranges in their thousands during Summer to escape the heat. Sections of this track were - and still are - extremely popular and easily accessible by public transport. Along the way, you can see Mountain Ash, Manna Gum, Mountain Grey Gum, Messmate (eucalypt) trees, Soft and Rough Tree ferns, Common Maidenhair, Rasp Fern and King Fern. If you keep your eyes open and look up into the trees, you can also see laughing Kookaburras, crimson and eastern rosellas, king parrots and yellow-tailed black cockatoos and the superb lyrebird.

Sassafras VIC

3.8 km away

'Community' theme Architectural Node — Image credit: ngurrak barringngurrak barring

Landmarks and Buildings

ngurrak barring Community Architectural Node

The ngurrak barring Architectural Nodes are collaborative explorations of the themes of the walk through an Indigenous lens, crafted by First Peoples design studios, Djinjama and COLA Studio. ngurrak barring is an arts and culture walking trail through the Dandenong Ranges. Permanent artworks, architectural nodes and signage celebrate the inspiration the area has had on artists and creatives. For many First Peoples, community represents strength, resilience, resistance and nurturing. The strength of community(ies) being the reason culture has continued. For some First Peoples who have been forcibly separated, community is an embrace longed for. The mother/aunty and child structures here are a representation of the nurturing, nourishment and guidance of community and Country. The welcoming forms are soft, warm and open whilst being strong and sheltering, their strength and structure formed of the many elements woven together. The forms take on the character of a weaving and a fern unfurling, an expression of the indivisible connection between people and Country.

Sassafras VIC

3.8 km away

Facial Serum

Shopping and Markets

Soap Opera Sassafras

Formulated to moisturise and restore the natural balance of hair, body and face, their pampering products are handmade with high quality, plant-derivatives, certified organic ingredients and pure essential oils. They believe everyone should experience the benefits of luxurious, natural and sustainable skincare. Soap Opera products are 100 per cent pure and natural, designed to clean, moisturise and scent the body, without harsh chemicals, parabens or preservatives and without testing on animals.

Sassafras VIC

3.9 km away

Olinda Falls Circuit

Natural Attractions

Olinda Falls Circuit

Parts of the Dandenong Ranges National Park are closed due to significant storm damage (June 2021). Please check the Parks Victorias website for the latest updates. The Olinda Falls Circuit walking track provides an ideal setting to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the Australian Bush. The track itself is a bush track, and is steep in parts with steps so it is not suitable for people with accessibility needs. Car park and toilets are available at Olinda Reserve.

Olinda VIC

4.0 km away

Sherbrooke Falls Loop

Natural Attractions

Sherbrooke Falls Loop

The Sherbrooke Falls Loop walk meanders through a forest containing the tallest flowering hardwood in the world, the Mountain Ash (Eucalyptus regnans) with an understorey of a variety of fern species. The Sherbrooke area provides habitat for the Suburb Lyrebird, which can often be seen or heard within the forest. The falls are most inspiring after rain when the Sherbrooke Creek cascades over rocky outcrops. The walk can begin and end at either the Sherbrooke Picnic Ground or O'Donohue Picnic Grounds, located on Sherbrooke Lodge Road. The Mountain Ash forests provide the perfect habitat for local wildlife such as wombats, swamp wallabies, ring-tailed and brush-tailed possums. Tree creepers, small birds that cling to the side of trees looking for a meal of grubs and insects can be seen foraging amongst the tree trunks. The beautiful and elusive blue-winged parrot has also been sighted in the Sherbrooke Forest.

Sherbrooke VIC

4.4 km away

Silvan Reservoir Park

National Parks and Reserves

Silvan Reservoir Park

Set in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, Silvan Reservoir Park is an easy drive from Melbourne and ideal for a great day out. Featuring landscaped picnic areas with BBQ facilities and open lawns surrounded by an impressive eucalypt forest where you can soak in spectacular views. The Park has a number of walking trails that visitors can use to experience the beauty of nature. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Silvan VIC

4.5 km away

Country Node — Image credit: ngurrak barring

Landmarks and Buildings

ngurrak barring Country theme Architectural Node

The ngurrak barring Architectural Nodes are collaborative explorations of the themes of the walk through an Indigenous lens, crafted by First Peoples design studios, Djinjama and COLA Studio. ngurrak barring, meaning mountain paths in Woiwurrung, is an arts and culture trail through the Dandenong Ranges, with artworks, nodes and signage celebrating the long inspiration the area has had on artists and creatives. The Country Node takes a macro lens to Country bringing awareness and education on the ancient nature of the tree ferns. At each ribbed section of the node structure, the body is embraced and guided through varying sensory experiences of an unfurling fern narrating a macro story of time. The ribs establish a contemplative space at a human scale as users move through the Node, and provide individual expressions of each layer of Wurundjeri Country: Biik-ut – Below Country, Biik-dui – On Country, Baanj Biik – Water Country, Murnmut Biik – Wind Country, Wurru wurru Biik – Sky Country, Tharangalk Biik – Star Country.

Sherbrooke VIC

4.5 km away

Olinda and Grey Gums Track

Natural Attractions

Olinda and Grey Gums Track

The Olinda and Grey Gums Track is a mix of open and single trail, with steeper parts. An easy walk when visiting Silvan Reservoir and it begins along the same route as the Messmate Track Circuit. Follow the signs to Grey Gum Track. This is an easy walk which takes roughly 35-45 minutes to complete on a dirt bush track. Dogs are permitted on a lead.

Silvan VIC

4.6 km away

Australian Boulder Opal Ring — Image credit: Helene F Campbell

Shopping and Markets

Tall Trees Studio

Tall Trees Studio is the working studio for Goldsmith Helene Campbell located in and on Mt Dandenong within the Dandenong Ranges. The Studio is the hub is where you can easily watch Helene create handcrafted jewellery destined either for display and sale in the studio or at locations, on most weekends Helene leads workshops in jewellery making. Helene's pieces feature Australian Gold and/or Silver, ethically or locally sourced stones, such as Australian Sapphires, Opals and Pearls in fresh, simple, vibrant, and contemporary designs using traditional and contemporary materials and techniques. Helene's designs reference the natural environment or are designed to showcase the distinctly different gemstone and materials being used. Each piece is handmade, and as such is as individual, much like the maker and the eventual owner.

Mount Dandenong VIC

4.9 km away

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