In romantic shows like Bridgerton, you’ll often find love interests strolling side-by-side in immaculate gardens. With neatly trimmed hedges, winding paths, and flowers all around, the stunning backdrop is often as beautiful as the story itself. And in the regional town of Jindivick, not too far from Melbourne, you will find a heavenly garden that will make you feel like the star of the show. Set against the rolling hills of West Gippsland, overlooking the man-made Tarago Reservoir, The Garden at Broughton Hall offers a dreamy landscape that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll.
The Garden at Broughton Hall
This enchanting garden was transformed by Philip Hunter and his partner David Musker from a blank canvas into a stunning location. Hunter and Musker purchased the West Gippsland farm in 1996, and over the years, have transformed the four-acre grounds into their version of paradise. The original landscape contained rich volcanic soil, high rainfall and a good altitude. These excellent conditions, combined with Musker’s background as a renowned garden designer, meant that they could create something truly spectacular.
“Not every beautiful garden starts with a talented designer, but when a designer with great passion for gardens is set free to create his dream, then heaven and earth conspire to produce a truly transformative experience,” said Hunter.
Inside the garden, you will find 14 key parts that unite into a seamless flow. In the Rose Garden, you’ll find rare and highly scented roses, bursting with colour. Meanwhile, in the Pink Garden, sit and take in views of the lake underneath an enormous lipstick maple. Then, meditate in a haven of blue and yellow flowers in the tranquil Yellow Garden, and be amazed by the splendour of the Upper Terrace, which features real exotic peacocks.
The Garden at Broughton Hall is particularly heavenly in spring. In early September, the bulbs start to pop up, and then you begin to see cherry blossoms in October. The roses are in full bloom from Melbourne Cup weekend until December. Autumn is also a wonderful time to see the Garden, with autumn roses blooming and bright autumn leaves falling everywhere.
Once you’ve finished exploring the garden, visit Musker’s Nursery and take a little piece of paradise home with you. Within the nursery, you’ll find a selection of rare plants, as well as home-made honey made from one of the nine beehives on the property.
Plant enthusiasts will be particularly happy to know that Hunter and Musker have just released their own book, The Charmed Garden at Broughton Hall. This book details their journey of transformation over 25 years.
Key info:
Where: 125 Palmer Road, Jindivick, Victoria 3818
When: Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm
How much: $20 per person. If you’re under 18, entry is free.
Private tours are also available by appointment.