Yarra Valley Regions Guide - attractions

Dandenong Ranges National Park
The famous lyre bird, which has the ability to mimic any other bird, is the most important inhabitant of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, just 25 miles (40km) from Melbourne via Burwood Highway or Canterbury Road. The park, covering 3,215 hectares, plays an important role in protecting the famous birds. Visitors enjoy walking, cycling and picnicking in the park at venues with enchanting names like Ferntree Gully, One Tree Hill or Sherbrooke Forest. The park is rich in wildlife and spectacular mountain ash forests and fern gullies are to be seen. The historic Puffing Billy steam train runs from Belgrave to Lakeside close to the park, and there are numerous craft shops, antique shops, gardens and restaurants in the area.
Telephone: 131 963 (Parks Victoria Information Centre)
Website: www.parkweb.vic.gov.au
Transport:
Opening times:

National Rhododendron Gardens
These gardens are world-famous and attract 50,000 visitors a year who come to admire an unparalleled variety of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and daffodils. One can stroll through 43 hectares of scenic gardens or enjoy a picnic by the lake and enjoy a view of the Australian Alps. During the Spring Floral Festival, held each year from August to November, visitors can see the largest undercover display of daffodils in the Southern Hemisphere. The Gardens can be found in the quaint hill town of Olinda, an hour's drive from Melbourne.
Telephone: (0)3 9751 1980
Website: www.parkweb.vic.gov.au
Transport:
Opening times: Daily 10am to 5pm