Victoria’s marquee cities — Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo — often steal the spotlight when it comes to local travel. These hotspots offer rich cultural experiences, fantastic dining, music festivals, and much more. But there’s just as much charm to be found in the state’s less-visited spots once you veer off the well-trodden path. One such quaint spot is Olinda, a small town just a stone’s throw from Melbourne. While it’s a great year-round destination, a spring visit is especially rewarding. Nestled within the lush landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges and on the doorstep of the Yarra Valley, Olinda boasts some of the state’s finest gardens, bursting with vibrant colour and lush greenery this time of year. Add in quality eateries and an abundance of charm, and it’s clear the town is tailor-made for a warm-weather getaway. Here’s how to spend a perfect spring day in Olinda.
Things to do in Olinda this spring
Summertime can mean hot temperatures, while winter can be frigid, spring offers the perfect sweet spot just before the peak travel season kicks into full gear. Should you venture to this cute village, you’ll find postcard-perfect scenery, stellar art galleries, local boutiques, a charming main street, and even waterfalls nearby.
A visit to the town’s flourishing gardens in spring is a no-brainer. Start your day at likely the most famous of Olinda’s offerings — the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, a veritable spring hotspot with thousands of vivid displays of rhododendrons, camellias, daffodils, and magnolias, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll in the crisp air. By late September, cherry blossoms and azaleas make their appearance, for an extra boost of serotonin.
Escape the crowds at the stunning Cloudehill Gardens for a more intimate experience, complete with wildflower meadows and bulb fields spread over 5 acres, or make a beeline for Pirianda Garden, a hidden gem with fewer crowds and equally beautiful spring displays.
Other seasonal adventures in Olinda include a visit to the scenic Olinda Falls. This short walk begins at the Olinda Falls Picnic Ground car park and follows a well-marked track. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot an elusive lyrebird wandering through the park. Along with Olinda Falls, you can also explore nearby Sherbrooke Falls, which cascades through lush forest, and Horseshoe Falls, nestled in Quinns Reserve. A spring trip to Olinda wouldn’t be complete without hopping aboard Victoria’s most iconic railway — the Puffing Billy Steam Train. Located just a 10-minute drive from Olinda, this historic steam train weaves its way through the expansive Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave, offering a nostalgic and charming ride perfect for all ages.
Other ways to enjoy the town
When you’re ready to venture back to town, this little village has plenty to offer. Explore the local art scene at galleries and studios like Touchstone Craft Gallery, where you can admire the works of over 250 Australian master craftspeople. Then browse handcrafted jewellery and fashion at Olinda Collective, or head to Dr Quirky’s Vintage Emporium for quirky knick-knacks and retro treasures, and for a touch of whimsy, don’t forget to swing by Geppetto’s Workshop, a local shop with a charming collection of puppets and toys.
After a day of exploration and adventure, it’s time to indulge in Olinda’s finest food and drink offerings. Delicious coffee and hearty meals await at the town’s local cafes. Head to Ranges at Olinda for a menu featuring local produce and classic breakfast and gourmet cafe dishes, or visit Olinda Cafe for fluffy scones with generous lashings of jam and cream, alongside a variety of breakfast and lunch options. Mount Dandenong Hotel is a local favourite, offering a pool, live music, and a welcoming tavern serving tasty, comforting meals, as is Olinda Tea House for high tea in a serene setting. Read more about Olinda and find accomodation options here.
How to get there
Olinda is easily accessible from Melbourne, making it the perfect day trip. Drive 50 minutes east from the city centre via the Eastern Freeway and the Maroondah Highway. The gorgeous route will take you through the scenic Dandenong Ranges, with plenty of opportunities to stop and snap photos along the way. If you prefer public transport, you can catch the 688 bus to Upper Ferntree Gully or Croydon, and then hop on a train to reach Olinda. Plan your travels on Public Transport Victoria.
