Dandenong Ranges is a beautiful part of Australia’s Southeast region. Besides places to visit on the Central Coast of Australia, the Dandenong Ranges are known for their rolling green hills and lush forests. If you’re looking to explore this area, here are some of the best places to visit:
1. Rogan Josh Restaurant
One of the best Indian restaurants in Dandenong is Rogan Josh Restaurant. The restaurant is located at 1216 Burwood Hwy, Upper Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156. It’s known for its delicious Indian cuisine with vegetarian options on its menu and friendly staff. You can get there by driving or taking the train to East Malvern Station and walking approximately 700 meters east along Burwood Highway.
2. Puffing Billy Railway
Puffing Billy Railway is a 2 ft (610 mm) narrow gauge heritage railway in the Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne. The line opened in 1900 and was known as the “Dandenong Scenic Railway”. It was originally built as a tourist attraction, with special trains taking visitors on scenic journeys through the hills and forests of this area.
The beautiful setting combined with the sounds of steam locomotives made Puffing Billy popular among passengers for many years. In 1980, Puffing Billy became Australia’s first totally volunteer-run heritage railway museum when it was taken over by volunteers from a local rail preservation group known as ‘The Friends of Puffing Billy’.
3. Olinda Falls
Located within the Dandenong Ranges National Park, Olinda Falls is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The waterfall is part of the Upper Yarra River catchment area and can be reached by car via Mt Dandenong Tourist Road or by walking on the Olinda Creek Track from Healesville.
The waterfall itself has multiple tiers that cascade over 60 metres down to meet the creek below. You can choose to walk or drive through this section of forest along a narrow, winding road (which may require some care). There are toilets at each end of this road.
Olinda Falls are open every day but opening times vary depending on weather conditions; call ahead before visiting if you’re unsure about whether they are open or not. If you’re looking for somewhere quieter than this busy tourist attraction but still close enough to enjoy all its beauty then consider going during off-peak hours e.g., first thing in the morning before crowds arrive.
4. Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is located in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, just north of Melbourne. The gardens are open daily from 8 am to 5 pm during spring, summer and autumn.
The gardens are a great place to take children as they have many interesting things to see and do. There are also plenty of picnic areas so you can enjoy lunch on-site with your family.
5. Grant’s Picnic Ground
Grant’s Picnic Ground is a popular attraction in the Dandenong Ranges. It’s located near Olinda, Victoria and is a popular destination for families and groups of friends to visit. The picnic ground has plenty of facilities including barbecues and picnic tables, so you can have lunch or pack a snack if you prefer. There are also toilets on site for visitors to use.
6. Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is a small park located in Dandenong Ranges. The gardens are named after Alfred Nicholas, a local businessman who donated the land to the council for public use. This park is popular for family picnics as it has plenty of space and facilities.
7. SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is a mountain in the Dandenong Ranges that’s ideal for hiking and exploring. With a scenic lookout and network of walking tracks, this is an easy way to get up close to nature without having to drive too far away from Melbourne. If you’re looking for a place to take your children that isn’t just another zoo or museum, this could be it.
Conclusion
There you have it, the best places to visit in Dandenong Ranges with family. You can expect a lot of fun and adventure here so make sure you come prepared for anything.
About the Author
Monica is a passionate writer and content creator. Her interests include outdoor activities, fitness, technology, entrepreneurship and everything in between. Say hi to Monica on Twitter @monical_lee.
