



Story by Clancy
On Cloud Nine
Adventure in Menzies Creek, Dandenong Ranges, VIC, AU
As we climbed the windy road to Cloud Retreat we caught glimpses of the flourishing valley below, yet nothing could have prepared us for the uninterrupted panoramic views ahead! Walking through the front door, we were met with a vast rural landscape of fern glades and evergreens as far as the eye could see. This beautifully curated stay had a story behind every detail, from local artwork to the tranquil gardens framed by floor-to-ceiling windows - we were feeling grounded from the moment we arrived. We spent our first evening unwinding with a bubble bath, sipping wine and enjoying a complementary platter of homegrown local produce. Waking to the sky painted in pastel hues of pink and orange our day started with a knock at the door to find freshly warmed bread and breakfast. We ventured into local culture in neighbouring Belgrave, got up close to Puffing Billy and explored everything Cloud Retreat had to offer. As the day drew to a close we relaxed on the balcony with a heartwarming home-cooked meal and savoured our final moments in paradise.
Things We Did
- Experience
- Local produce
- Walk
- Lake
- Town
- Forest
Scavenger hunt, picnic and Puffing Billy is a combo you didn’t know you needed until now! Decipher the clues to reveal your secret picnic location and enjoy front row seats as Puffing Billy chugs on by.
Indulge on fresh mushrooms straight from the pan and relish in the flavours as you sit under 150 year old ferns. With the sun filtering through the canopy you’ll find it hard to believe that all this is right at your doorstep.
Perfect for an early morning walk, Melbourne’s second largest reservoir has an impressive dam wall and stunning views over the water. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife that frequents the nearby grassland.
Relax and calm your mind lake side. This place is perfect for a day in the sun or to simply slow down and watch the ducks go by.
Second-hand books galore! This charming little store will have you weaving your way through tales and adventures for hours. Uncover hidden gems or find an old favourite, you won’t be leaving empty handed.
Full of life and colour, take a stroll down the main street of Belgrave. From beautiful murals to quirky stores there’s a little something for everyone.
Built in 1899 and standing tall in a verdant valley this architecturally and beautifully designed timber trestle bridge is not to be missed. If you’re lucky enough you might even see Puffing Billy pass over.
Our Adventure Map
Where we stayed
Things we did
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Riparide Stories are authentic experiences shared by real travellers (who are handy with a camera). It's like reading your best friend's travel journal - packed with photos, honest reviews and visual itineraries.


























