Kurth Kiln Regional Park (and Ship Rock Falls)
Kurth Kiln Regional Park, covering 3,500 ha, contains a range of forest types and other interesting features awaiting exploration.
Located a 65 km east of Melbourne and just 8 km north of Gembrook, the park is mostly known for it’s kiln used during the Second World War to make charcoal for gas producer units fitted to motor cars. The ‘producer gas’ was a substitute fuel for petrol which was rationed at the time.
For More Info – Heritage Festival (10 April 2011) Flyer
The Dandenong Ranges
The William Ricketts Sanctuary – This is a place of beauty and tranquillity, due both to the natural setting and the mystical sculptures half hidden among ferns along the pathways. It is a place for quiet reflection and for contemplation of the essence of the vision of William Ricketts..
Dandenong Ranges National Park – Over 3,275 ha in area, with numerous walking tracks and scenic drives
Visit Sherbrooke Forest, Dongalla Homestead or the Thousand Steps
The National Rhododendron Garden
The National Rhododendron Gardens, at Olinda, is a unique setting for cool climate plants with breathtaking views over the Yarra Valley.
Seasonal changes ensure these Gardens are an all-year-round delight.
The National Rhododendron Garden is located 500 metres from the Olinda township (Melways Ref 66 K6). Closed on Christmas Day and days of Total Fire Ban. Entry charges apply.
Puffing Billy Railway
Take a magical ride on Puffing Billy. Ride this magnificent steam train from Belgrave-Emerald-Gembrook and back or disembark at Emerald Lake Park for a day by the lake.
Puffing Billy is a genuine relic of our more leisurely days. An historic steam train still running regularly in the mountain district it was built to serve at the turn of the century. The Railway is the major survivor of four experimental lines used to develop rural areas in the early 1900s.
Healesville Sanctuary
Experience close-up encounters with some of Australia’s most unique and captivating wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, wombats, emus, dingoes, birds of prey and platypuses.
Healesville Sanctuary is open every day including Christmas Day and Public Holidays, from 9.00am to 5.00pm. The total Sanctuary journey is approximately 3km and while an average visit takes three hours, you can easily spend the day.
Immerse yourself in Australian flora and fauna at its very best. For more info
Yarra Valley Winerie’s
Less than 45mins down the road is the Yarra Valley. Home to over 55 wineries, most of which offer cellar door tastings and sales. Spend a day visiting wineries that not only make fine wine, but also provide meals using local produce for a magnificent dining experience. For more info
Lake Mountain
Within an hours drive you will find Australia’s premier cross-country skiing resort. In the winter months enjoy a day skiing – in spring, summer and autumn use the well marked ski trails as walking tracks to enjoy all the majestic flora this area has to offer. For more info
Melbourne City
Concerned you will miss the city’s bright lights – DON’T BE! Melbourne is only one hours drive away and once there you can enjoy a vast assortment of things only the city can provide.
Enjoy some of Australia’s best eating and drinking, explore historic arcades and laneways lined with cafés and boutiques. See sporting spectaculars, art exhibitions and some of the worlds best stage shows.
From chic fashion stores to buzzing laneway cafes and trendy bars, botanic gardens to sports stadiums, elegant Victorian-era streetscapes to Manhattan-style skyscrapers, film and food festivals to galleries and opulent theatres, Melbourne has an activity and attraction that will interest you. For more info