Both Melbourne and Victoria are glorious under the blue summer skies, but when the leaves change their colours in autumn, something simply spectacular happens. Breathe in the crisp autumn air, and travel around the state to admire the dazzling hues. Here are some amazing spots around Melbourne and Victoria to see some vibrant autumn leaves.
1. Start with a stroll through Carlton Gardens
The wide pathways, the dramatic backdrop of the Royal Exhibition Building, and towering, shady trees of Carlton Gardens are beautiful at any time of year. But in autumn, this corner of Melbourne is particularly spectacular.
2. Of course, you can’t go wrong with the Royal Botanic Gardens
Head to one of Australia’s best tourist attractions, and wander around the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. Stretching out over 38 hectares, there’s plenty of spots for you to take in the striking autumn hues.
3. Find a moment of peace at Fitzroy Gardens
Fitzroy Gardens has plenty of attractions, including the floral displays in the Conservatory and the historic Cooks’ Cottage. But, the picturesque avenues and brilliant elm trees are an attraction of their own during the autumn months.
4. Drive out of the city and into Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is breath-taking all year round. It features a mixture of native and exotic trees, that transform into gorgeous hues in autumn. On top of that, there’s plenty of bright rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and more interesting plants to admire.
5. Then check out Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
Famous for its ornamental lake and quaint boathouse, the autumn foliage at Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is truly stunning. See the maples and beeches transform into bright hues of red and gold.
6. Head to the top of the Dandenongs for Cloudehill Gardens
With an altitude of 580 metres, deep volcanic loam soil and 1.25 metres of rainfall throughout the year, the gardens at Cloudehill flourish. During autumn, the weeping maples and beech trees transform into crimson and gold.
7. Wander among the trees at RJ Hamer Arboretum
Also located in the Dandenong Ranges, you’ll find stunning autumn views at RJ Hamer Arboretum. This arboretum has over 150 species of both native and exotic trees, including plantings from the northern hemisphere, such as China and the USA. This large variety creates a spectacular display of colour during the autumn months. When you’re not looking at the trees, gaze out at views of the Yarra Valley and the Great Dividing Range.
8. Head down the Peninsula to Seawinds Gardens
Drive up to the summit of Arthurs Seat, and wander through 34 hectares at Seawinds Gardens. With plenty of walking tracks and deciduous trees, this is a great spot outside of Melbourne to admire autumn leaves, without having to stray too far from the ocean.
9. Go further out to see pretty much all of Bright
It’s all in the name. Every year, the picturesque town of Bright and the surrounding areas become ablaze with colour. For a full celebration of the season, check out the Bright Autumn Festival, which cherishes the splendour of the autumn leaves over ten wonderful days.
10. Feel perfectly jolly in Jamieson
Walk around the picturesque town of Jamieson in the High Country, and admire the vast range of trees in autumn. You’ll see beautiful and historic trees, such as maples, elms and poplars. While you’re there, don’t miss the Jamieson Autumn Festival for market stalls and more on Saturday April 13.
11. Head west to Viewfield Garden on Mount Macedon
The private Viewfield Garden will open to the public for the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival. Pack a picnic, explore the 10-acre space, and admire the vibrant foliage of the trees. You’ll also find other features, like a glasshouse, a fruit forest, a fairy garden and more. This space will open on Easter weekend, and will remain open on weekends during the month of April. Find out more here.
12. Then find your way through Forest Glade Gardens
This historic private garden covers almost six hectares on Mount Macedon. There are many magnificent maples, birches, beeches and other exotic trees that transform the gardens with rich hues of red and gold. Forest Glade Gardens is open every day, but if you’re visiting on any weekend or public holiday in April, you must book in advance due to limited numbers. See more here.
13. Don’t forget about Daylesford!
Perched on a volcanic hill, Daylesford’s Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens are simply beautiful in autumn. Filled with bright colours and stunning views of Daylesford, these gardens are a lovely spot to visit during the autumn months. For more nature, take a leisurely stroll around Lake Daylesford.
14. And wander through Kyneton Botanic Gardens
The historic Kyneton Botanic Gardens have 17 trees listed by the National Trust of Australia. In autumn, crunchy autumn leaves fall lovingly onto the winding pathways, making for some great seasonal photos.
15. Explore Ballarat this autumn
Check out the Avenue of Honour, which stretches out 22 kilometres and is lined with 3771 trees. These deciduous trees, including ash, maple, poplar and elm, transform into bright hues during the autumn months.
While you’re in Ballarat, take a stroll past Lake Wendouree, and see the colours of the heritage oak trees and gorgeous elms reflected in the tranquil waters. Then swing by the Ballarat Botanical Gardens for even more autumn views.
16. Marvel at The Valley of Liquid Ambers in Heathcote
Settle down for a peaceful picnic surrounded by lush views at The Valley of Liquid Ambers. Close to the centre of Heathcote, this area is full of picturesque views and autumn leaves.
17. Explore Marysville in the Yarra Valley
Perfect for nature lovers, Marysville is surrounded by lush trees, cheerful waterfalls and native wildlife. In autumn, take a drive along the Buxton to Marysville Road, and see a golden line of towering poplar trees on both sides of the avenue.
18. Feel delighted at TarraWarra Estate
During April, the leaves fall from the poplar trees, creating a vibrant golden carpet. Take some pictures, then head to the TarraWarra Museum of Art for an extra bit of culture.
18. Wander through the Garden at Broughton Hall
These dreamy gardens in Jindivick are glorious in autumn. The space is divided up into 14 key parts that unite into a seamless flow. See it for yourself when they open to the public for the autumn season from Thursdays to Sundays, 10am to 4pm. Learn more here.
20. Travel up to Walhalla in Gippsland
Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by trees is the goldrush town of Walhalla. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, as you take in the heritage buildings surrounded by autumn splendour.
21. Be amazed by the brightness of Buchan
Buchan in Gippsland might be known for its caves, but it’s got plenty of stuff happening above the ground in autumn. Wander around the heritage town, and admire the autumn splendour of the deciduous trees. Head to Buchan Caves Reserve and have a picnic under a bright canopy of maple and golden ash trees.