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. What’s not to love?
2. Of course, you can’t go wrong with the Royal Botanical 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
These gardens are breath-taking all year round. They feature 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 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. Head down the Peninsula to Seawinds Gardens
Drive up to the summit of Arthurs Seat, and wander through 34 hectares of garden. 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.
8. And see pretty much all of Bright
It’s all in the name. Every year, the picturesque town 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.
9. Discover the Gardens of Tieve Tara
A 50 minute drive away from Melbourne CBD, the Gardens of Tieve Tara on Mount Macedon feature vibrant autumn leaves. In this peaceful oasis, you’ll find deciduous trees and herbaceous borders, decked out in hues of purple, red, orange, ochre and yellow. This haven is usually open to the public during spring and autumn.
10. There’s also 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.
If you’re heading up to Mount Macedon for the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival, then visiting Forest Glade Gardens is a must. The festival runs from April 1 to 30.
11. Don’t forget about Daylesford, either
Perched on a volcanic hill, Daylesford’s Wombat Botanical 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.
12. And wander through Kyneton Botanic Gardens
These historic 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.
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. Explore Marysville in the Yarra Valley
Perfect for nature lovers, Marysville is surrounded by lush trees, cheerful waterfalls and native wildlife. In autumn, you’ll discover a long avenue, surrounded by brilliant golden trees.
17. 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 art.
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 from Thursdays to Sundays, 10am to 4pm, from April 20 to June 11. Entry is $20. Visiting the gardens outside of these times can be arranged via appointment.
19. And head to Healesville for Maroondah Reservoir Park
This park features a dam wall that stretches 41 metres into the air, as well as formal gardens, a reservoir lake, and plenty of deciduous trees. Enjoy a stroll through this idyllic landscape this autumn, and take in the unique views and gorgeous colours.