A Weekend In The Dandenong Ranges

The great outdoors has proven its benefits to our wellbeing. The benefits of gulping down fresh air and venturing outside our comfort zones are endless. Yet actually leaving the urban rat race and taking time out can seem a little overwhelming. Not in the Dandenong Ranges, it isn’t. With its mix of quaint shopping villages, varied level hikes and an array of hidden delights, the Dandenong Ranges truly has something to please everyone.

Melbourne is a city jam packed with sites but when you need to unwind, where do you go? The Dandenong Ranges, of course. These are some of the best ways to spend a weekend in the Dandenongs.

Puffin Billy

Ride the Puffin Billy steam train through a winding rail line through the forests, fern gullies and farmlands, from Belgrave to Gembrook and get a real feel of what the Dandenong Ranges has to offer. Built in the 1900s to open up remote areas, the rail line is the easiest and most majestic way to take in as many of the sites without breaking a sweat.1 Old Monbulk Rd, Belgrave, VIC, 3160

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Giant Mountain Ash Trees, a picturesque lake and a quaint boathouse all connected by long winding paths. Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is the most pleasant place to take a stroll and decompress from your travels. Just remember to take a second to admire the seasonal highlights as you walk.1 Sherbrooke Rd, Sherbrooke, VIC, 3789

William Ricketts Sanctuary

Hunt for half hidden sculptures through the thick fern trees of this almost mystical destination. A tranquil place for quiet reflection and contemplation. William Ricketts Sanctuary created truly remarkable art work. The shade from the super tall trees makes this the perfect place to cool down on a hot summer’s day.Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Mount Dandenong, Victoria 3767

1000 Steps / Kokoda Memorial Walk

The 1000 Steps / Kokoda Memorial walk is one of the most renowned tourist spots. Parking can be a major problem here, but don’t let that put you off. The feeling of camaraderie on the ascent of the 1000-step climb and the accomplishment when you reach the top is second to none. Check out the plaques on the way up for details on the exhaustion experienced by the Australian soldiers walking the Kokoda trail in Papua New Guinea, if for no other reason than an excuse to stop and take a break.Dandenong Ranges National Park, Ferny Creek, VIC, 3786

Sky High

There’s a small charge for the Sky High car park but the spectacular views and trails you gain access to are well worth it. The never ending skyline is best experienced at sunset, sipping on a glass of wine over a romantic dinner or a cup of tea on a relaxing afternoon. The grounds play host to more than just a bistro, however. Take the opportunity to check out the hedge maze, loved by kids and adults alike and the stunning English gardens lined with magnificent flowers and artistic sculptures.26 Observatory Rd, Mount Dandenong, VIC, 3767

Miss Marple’s Tea Room

Miss Marple’s Tea Room is one of the main tourist attractions in The Dandenongs, giving you a little taste of a popular English custom. Famous for their traditional Devonshire Tea served with tasty jam and lashings of thick cream, these guys don’t disappoint. Be warned. This place is so popular that there is a 30 minute waiting time more often than not!382 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Sassafras, VIC, 3787
By Nicola KeaneNicola Keane, a wellbeing and lifestyle blogger from the UK. Currently residing in Melbourne, Australia, Nicola prides herself on helping ordinary people reach extraordinary potential with her witty, common sense approach to balance and essentialism. Follow her on Instagram @thenicolakeane or blog http://www.nicolakeane.com for a quick injection of inspiration.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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