Amid the Trees

For somewhere a little closer to home, the Dandenong ranges are the perfect place to escape. Leaving the hustle and bustle of the work-week behind us, we set-off and took our time to enjoy the picturesque roads that wind up Mount Dandenong. This drive takes you through dense forest and offers many inviting pubs and cafes to stop at.

We spent our days enjoying the regions many opportunities for R and R, moseying between walking-trails, gardens, waterfalls and artisan cafes. The resplendent Botanic Gardens was the perfect place for a sleepy-walk through 36 hectares of rhododendrons, azaleas, cherries and other Australian fauna. No visit to the Dandenong Ranges is complete without seeing the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and its exceptionally photogenic boat-shed. Tending to our rumbling stomachs, the Piggery Café was the perfect stop for a burger and a beer, before retiring back to our accommodation. If you’re looking for a place to relax and immerse yourself in nature, then the Dandenong Ranges are a must.

Wild Orchard Luxury Cottage is nestled deep within the canopy of Mount Dandenong, surrounded by breath-taking mountain ash trees. The brightly coloured cottage and it’s lush, forest surrounds possess a folkish charm. Inside, you are greeted with a spacious living area, complete with the perfect fire-place to lounge in front of. The quaint kitchen-area has all the amenities you will need, complete with a very generously catered breakfast. Upstairs is a king-size bed, and balcony with panoramic views into the valley of the forest. If you wish to meet some of the local bird species such as rosellas, galahs and kookaburras, seeds are provided that can be placed on the balcony! Other amenities include TV, free wi-fi, spa-bath and coffee-machine. This is the perfect couples escape to relax and recharge in one of Victoria’s most scenic regions.
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Things We Did

  • Waterfall
  • Walk
  • Forest
  • Food & Drink
A humble little waterfall awaits at the end of a short, but picture-perfect bush-walk...
Particularly around spring-time, these gardens are the perfect place to get lost among a sea of colours...
A windy-track eventually leads to an impressively scenic lake and boat-shed. Bring your camera!...
Perfect pit-stop for a beer, burger or coffee as you explore the region...

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