There’s so many lovely things to see and do in the Macedon Ranges, particularly during autumn. If you’re heading to this area for the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival, there’s a high chance that you’re searching for some spectacularly vibrant leaves. And there’s one garden that’s particularly dreamy. Make your way over to the stunning Forest Glade Gardens, and gaze at the fiery hues of the maples, birches, beeches and other gorgeous trees. The gardens are open daily from 10am to 5pm, and it costs $20 for adults to enter. Children aged 16 and under are free!
Forest Glade Gardens
These private gardens are almost 100 years old, and sprawls across 14 acres. Located on the southern slope of Mount Macedon, this pretty destination has four themed areas. Explore the large English section, and take in the beauty of its exotic trees and ornamental plants. Cross the stepping stones and explore the Japanese section, which comes with a bonsai house. Marvel at the plants in the wonderful woodland area, and find plenty of shade in the cool fern gully.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the sprawling lawns around Forest Glade, and look out for fountains, pergolas, statues and ponds. Stroll down the aptly named Maple Walk, and marvel at the fiery displays of crimson, gold and amber.
Dogs are welcome to come along too! They’ll have a marvellous time sniffing around the garden. Just keep them on a lead at all times, and remember to pick up after them.
These gardens are also stunning all year round. In winter, you’ll find moody mist among the deciduous trees, and if you’re lucky, there might even be snow! In spring, the flowers begin to blossom, and the bluebell patch and daffodil lawn will come to life. Finally, summer has plenty of gorgeous perennials and shady trees.
Getting there
As part of the autumn festival, there is a complimentary shuttle bus. This bus runs each each weekend and public holiday in April. The shuttle bus will take visitors to Forest Glade Gardens, Duneira Estate or Viewfield Garden. You will need to pre-purchase a ticket, and show your receipt to hop on the bus.
The bus leaves from Centennial Park, on the corner of Honour Avenue and Mt Macedon Road. Parking is available at the rear of the Macedon Church of Resurrection. Please note that during April, there is no parking near Forest Glade Gardens on weekends and public holidays. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the shuttle bus.
The drive from Melbourne to Macedon is about one hour. You can also take the V/Line to Macedon, and walk for about 30 minutes.
Key info:
🕒10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4:30pm
🎫In April, entry is $20 on weekends and public holidays, or $15 on weekdays. Free entry for those under 16.
📍816 Mount Macedon Rd, Mount Macedon VIC 3441
Learn more about the gardens here.
