Spring is here, and there are so many stunning parks and gardens filled with flowers for us to see around Melbourne, such as Wattle Park, the Cherry Grove in Banksia Park, and Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden. And if you’re looking for wildflowers, with a mix of awe-inspiring mountains and valleys, why don’t you head west of Melbourne to the Grampians? This incredible national park, traditionally known as Gariwerd, is packed with over 1,000 species of wildflowers, including 130 types of orchids, and over 40 species found nowhere else in the world. The region is home to about one third of Victoria’s flora species. And with stats like that, it’s no wonder that this region has been described as the ‘garden of Victoria’. With the wildflowers in bloom and the mild spring weather, now is the perfect time to visit Grampians National Park. Here are some blooming good ideas to get you started.
Wildflowers in Grampians National Park
This majestic part of Victoria is filled with a wide variety of rocks and soil, supporting the vast range of native plants. And with thousands of different species, flowering times are staggered throughout the season, starting in late August, and running until November
Northern Grampians
The first flowers of the season typically appear in the north, with orchids and flowering shrubs in the woodlands. If you’re keen to see wild orchids, take a relatively short loop around Heatherlie Quarry. On this historic site, you’ll see old machinery, stone cottages and a colourful variety of orchids.
For more flowers, along with impressive natural views, go for a hike around Mount Zero and Mount Stapylton. One popular walk in this area is Hollow Mountain, a strenuous, 2.2km return climb that will take you past a cavern and up to a rocky summit. In spring, you can see pops of colour along the track.
For flowers and waterfalls, head to Beehive Falls. This gentle track will lead you through native grasses to a rock amphitheatre, were a small, seasonal waterfall tumbles over a cliff into a fern-lined rock pool. In spring, you’ll also see wildflower displays.
Central Grampians
There’s lots to see and do around Central Grampians. Time your visit to align with the Pomonal Native Flower Show, an annual event at the start of October that showcases some fabulous native plants. Stretch your legs along the Pomonal Tunnel Walking Track, where you’ll see native blooms around open woodland.
Around Halls Gap, you’ll find flowers paired with spectacular sights and trails, such as Boroka Lookout, Mackenzie Falls, Sundial Peak and Silverband Falls. On your way to the Pinnacle, look out for blooms like the Gorse Bitter-pea.
Southern Grampians
Marvel at a carpet of flowering heaths, grevillea, bluebells, orchids and pink, purple and orange peas in the southern end of the Grampians. Make the trek up to the summit of Mount William and see the landscape unfold below. For a more leisurely walk, journey up to the Piccaninny instead, and take in views of Mt Abrupt and Dunkeld.
Speaking of Dunkeld, the town has an aboretum, so you can wander amongst an impressive collection of trees. In spring, you’ll find wildflowers like chocolate lilies, milkmaids and sun orchids.
Planning your visit
The wildflower season starts in late August, and can continue on in the Grampians until November. Early September to October is typically the best time to see these pretty blooms. As you are planning your adventure in the great outdoors, keep an eye on Parks Victoria for any changes to conditions, such as closures. As you are exploring a national park, remember to leave no trace. Take as many photos as you please, but don’t pick the flowers.
