3 Famous Gardens, 1 Long Weekend: The Perfect Itinerary

Day 1: Alowyn Gardens – A Floral Wonderland in the Yarra Valley

Yarra Glen

Your journey begins at Alowyn Gardens, a stunning seven-acre property designed with the same precision and artistry as a grand European estate. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a towering wisteria archway, which, if you’re lucky enough to visit in spring, is draped in cascades of purple blooms.

What to See & Do

1. Stroll through the seven themed gardens, including the structured parterre garden, the peaceful forest garden, and the ever-changing perennial border.
2. If you love gardening yourself, the edible garden will give you plenty of inspiration for growing your own fresh produce.
3. Find a quiet bench to sit and simply soak in the beauty of the landscape.
4. Visit the nursery. That offers hard-to-find varieties of quality plants.

Lunch & Wine Tasting

After your garden wander, enjoy lunch at Alowyn’s Café, sit outside in the Mapel Courtyard or the Farmshed Courtyard. Then, because no trip to the Yarra Valley is complete without wine, visit a nearby vineyard like Yering Station or TarraWarra Estate for an afternoon tasting.

Evening: A Cozy Stay in the Dandenong Ranges

As the sun sets, head to the Dandenong Ranges and check into one of our charming bed and breakfast or luxury cottage. If you’re in the mood for a special dinner, Citrine Restaurant in Olinda offers an open fireplace with a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Image supplied by Valley Ranges Getaways

https://alowyngardens.com.au/

Day 2: Cloudhill Garden – A Masterpiece of Design

Olinda

If Alowyn is a structured masterpiece, then Cloudhill Garden is its poetic counterpart. Tucked into the misty hills of Olinda, this garden is a layered, textural wonderland that changes dramatically with the seasons. I remember visiting in autumn and being absolutely mesmerized by the glowing reds and oranges of the Japanese maples.

What to See & Do

1. Wander through the carefully designed garden rooms, where every turn offers a new scene of perfectly placed plants.
2. Admire the impressive beech walk, a living sculpture of towering hedges.
3. If you’re visiting in spring, look out for rare bulbs and vibrant rhododendrons in full bloom.

Lunch & Shopping in Sassafras & Olinda

Enjoy lunch at Seasons Restaurant, located within Cloudhill, where you can dine while overlooking the garden. Afterward, take some time to explore the nearby villages of Sassafras and Olinda, known for their quaint boutiques, antique stores, and cozy tea rooms.

Evening: Wine by the Fire

As the day winds down, return to your accommodation for a glass of local wine by the fireplace or head to Pig & Whistle Tavern for a relaxed pub meal.

Image supplied courtesy of @simonegimagery

https://cloudehill.com.au/

Day 3: The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden – A Grand Finale

Olinda

Your final garden destination is The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, formerly known as the National Rhododendron Garden. This place is an explosion of colour, especially in spring when over 15,000 rhododendrons burst into bloom. But don’t think this garden is only for springtime visitors—autumn transforms it into a golden paradise, and even in winter, the fern gullies and lake walks are spectacular.

What to See & Do

1. Start with a leisurely stroll around the lake, taking in the reflections of towering trees.
2. Wander through the themed garden sections, where exotic plants and native species blend seamlessly.
3. Find a lookout point and take in the sweeping views of the Yarra Valley and beyond.
4. Chelsea Australian Garden. Featuring an enormous Waratah sculpture, waterfall, native plants and a billabong.

High Tea & Farewell to the Hills

Before heading home, treat yourself to a high tea at Mary Eats Cake in Montrose. The combination of warm scones, fresh cream, and a perfectly brewed cup of tea is the ideal way to wrap up your garden adventure.

Images by Valley Ranges Getaways

https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/dandenong-ranges-botanic-garden

Final Thoughts: A Weekend of Beauty & Serenity

Spending a long weekend in the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley’s famous gardens is more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a rejuvenating escape. Whether you’re a lifelong gardener, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, this itinerary will fill your heart with beauty and your soul with nature.

So, why not plan your own garden getaway? Take the time to slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let nature work its magic.

Would love to hear—what’s your Favorite Garden experience?

Have you visited any of these magical places? Share your getaway with us! @valley.ranges.getaways #vrg #valleyrangesgetaways

Image supplied by Valley Ranges Getaways