With lush forests and charming villages, the Dandenong Ranges offer a peaceful escape all year round. And autumn is a particularly popular time of year, thanks to its vibrant gardens, and gentle weather for forest hikes. If you’d like to escape to the Dandenong Ranges this autumn, and you’re not sure where to start, why don’t you pay a visit to the tranquil little town of Olinda? Located an hour away from Melbourne by car, or under two hours away by public transport, this place acts as a great base for your adventures, with cosy cafes and close proximity to gardens.
Olinda in autumn
This scenic spot is the highest village in the Dandenong Ranges. Breathe in the crisp mountain air, and wander down the main road in search of boutique shops and darling knick-knacks. Find the perfect hat for you at Truffaux, browse for cute tea pots at Tea Leaves and treat yourself with jewellery from Tall Trees Studio & Gallery. Explore Olinda’s art scene, and pop into a studio like Emma Jennings Gallery. While you’re in town, amble along the Olinda Heritage Walk, a self-guided experience that provides a snapshot of village life in the 1900s.
If the weather is a little dreary, pop into one of the cosy eateries for a relaxing cup of hot chocolate. Treat yourself to house-made scones with cream at Ranges at Olinda, go for a classic pie at Pie in the Sky and indulge in a waffle dessert bowl at the Only Mine/Jala Jala cafe. For something a little more filling, enjoy a hearty meal at Citrine Bistro & Bar or try the Italian food at Dudley’s. For a bit of high tea, drive down the road and nibble on sweet and savoury delights at the stunning Olinda Tea House.
Gardens near Olinda
Olinda is close to a vast range of picturesque public and private gardens, which are all absolutely beautiful in autumn.
If you took public transport, you’ll be happy to know that the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is just a ten minute walk away. And since this spot is quite popular in autumn, especially on weekends, so you won’t have to worry about finding a car park! This cool-climate garden stretches across 50 hectares, and is home to thousands of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. In autumn, this destination explodes with colour, as the deciduous trees light up in shades of red, orange and gold. The best time to see the seasonal foliage is from mid-April to early May, also some trees start to shift hues in late March. The garden is also home to the Chelsea Australia Garden, which features a tranquil little waterfall and billabong.
If you are driving, you have a few more options to choose from. Don’t miss RJ Hamer Arboretum, a 101-hectare site that is home to over 150 species of native and exotic trees. Or, visit Pirianda Garden, an 11-hectare woodland with 28 species of striking maple trees, as well as birches, fern gullies and flowers. Both of these public gardens put on a fiery display in autumn.
For even more seasonal splendour, try out Cloudehill Gardens, a privately owned space that features 25 gardens across five hectares. See colours like crimson, russet and gold as the weeping maples, beeches and other trees transform. The ornamental grasses are at their finest during this season, and you’ll see the perennial borders soften and the last of the salvias in the gardens. While you’re there, pop into the restaurant and shop.
More adventures nearby
Go on a walk through the forest to see the lovely Olinda Falls, or check out this awesome art trail in Doongalla Forest. Go for a quick drive or take a scenic walk to the nearby town of Sassafrass, where you’ll find more cute shops and cafes, like Geppetto’s Workshop or Miss Marple’s Tearoom. If you love watching the sunset, head on up to Burke’s Lookout for unforgettable views.
How to get there
Drive about an hour away from Melbourne along the Eastern Freeway or the Monash Freeway, and steadily wind your way up to the town through the Dandenong Ranges.
If you’re taking public transport, hop on either the Belgrave or Lilydale train from Southern Cross, and get off at Upper Ferntree Gully or Croydon. From there, catch the 688 bus up to Olinda. Plan your journey here.
