One of the jewels of the Dandenong Ranges must be the iconic National Rhododendron Gardens in Olinda.

Although the name-sake touts the robust Rhododendron as its headline act, the 15,000 rhododendrons also share the stage with over 12,000 azaleas, 3,000 Camellias and 250,000 daffodils. Located only a short distance (500 metres) from the main township of Olinda, the 104 acre gardens offer a fantastic opportunity to see one of the region’s premier garden sites.

Within the grounds itself you will find a large ornamental lake, sensory gardens, deep fern gullies dotted with the mighty Mountain Ash, small rock gardens and paved access throughout the whole property.  Take a picnic lunch, observe the native birdlife and take a tour of the grounds.

As you walk the length of the grounds, you will head past the Cherry Tree Grove that is in full bloom throughout the springtime and celebrated at the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.  As you head past the grove, it is here that some of the most stunning scenery in the Dandenongs comes into view, stretching out across over the Yarra Valley.

For those less likely to be able to walk the distance of the varying landscape, there is the Garden Explorer Shuttle bus that provides a guided tour of the park from a 20 seater bus. (Runs Sept- Nov)

Internationally renowned, the gardens receive an average of 50,000 to 60,000 visitors annually; and with this Parks Victoria

site now open FREE to the public, these numbers are sure to grow.

• Park Open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
• Gift-shop
• A plant nursery
• picnic tables
• ‘Café Vireya’ will open 10am – 4pm at certain times of the year. Contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 for more information.

For further information, important announcements and opening times, please visit Parks Victoria

For a copy of the Parks Victoria Park Notes click here