We just can’t get enough of seeing the flowers this season, from wistful wisteria, to delicate cherry blossoms, cheerful tulips and more. And if you’re heading to the Dandenong Ranges for the blooms, chances are, you’ll swing by Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden. And, since you’re in the area, why don’t you pop into Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens? With its abundance of maple, beech and birch trees, this 13-hectare garden is perhaps more well-known as a radiant autumn destination. But, it’s just as beautiful in spring! It’s free to visit, and open daily.
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens in spring
This tranquil space was established in the late 1920s and early 1930s by the late Alfred Nicholas, and was transferred to the State in 1973. Nestled beside the historic Burnham Beeches estate, this garden is known for its exotic trees and theatrical water features.
Wind your way along the sloping paths, beneath a canopy of towering mountain ash trees, and let them guide you to the picturesque ornamental lake, which has a charming boathouse as well as little bridges and islands.
In spring, you’ll find plenty of blooming rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, kalmias and flowering cherries near the lake. As the season unfurls, falling petals blanket the pathways with little drops of colour. Breathe in the fragrance of the blossoms, and listen to the soothing trickle of the waterfalls nearby.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn, or pause in the gazebo and admire a sculpture by Mark Stoner. Listen out for the songs of native birds while you’re there, like rosellas, cockatoos, parrots, robins and honeyeaters.
The timing of the blooms varies each year, and depends on factors like temperature, rainfall and wind. If you’re worried about missing the flowers this spring, don’t worry. Summer will have plenty of flowers to admire too, such as hydrangeas, fuchsias and orchids.
Planning your visit
With so many splendid colours, this garden does get popular on weekends. Try to arrive on a weekday for a more serene experience. Or, aim to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Parking is available across the road from the main entrance.
Dogs are welcome to come along, as long as they’re on a leash. Please take all of your rubbish with you, as there are no bins on site.
Please note that while the top of the garden has sealed paths for accessibility, the rest of the garden may be challenging. It’s set on a hilly terrain, and the steep paths down to the lake are unsealed, and not recommended for those with limited mobility.
For more information, click here.
