With school holidays on the way and the warmer weather to look forward to, we thought we would put together some low cost activities to do throughout the hills. We hope you enjoy!
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
36-hectare garden with extensive paths past diverse plants, trees & water features, plus a cafe.
R.J. Hamer Arboretum
Arboretum featuring scenic, hilly walking trails amid 150+ types of native & exotic trees. Perfect spot for a picnic while enjoying the breathtaking views.
1,000 steps – Kokoda Trail
Challenge yourself on the ever popular 1,000 step Kokoda Memorial walk at Ferntree Gully. Also enjoy the picnic grounds and the onsite coffee shop and playground. Facilities include large BBQ shelters with picnic tables as well as BBQ's and picnic tables in the open, exercise stations, significant information boards regarding Kokoda, a playground, large car park, 2 toilet blocks and more.
George Tindale Memorial Gardens
Extensive collections of magnolias, rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas and hydrangeas will delight garden enthusiasts. Bring a picnic rug, or simply walk around and view the beautiful gardens.
Silvan Reservoir
Silvan reservoir is popular with day trippers having BBQ's and picnics on the sweeping lawns within the landscaped gardens.
Emerald Lake Park
Paddleboats - bbq - picnic tables - cafe - walking tracks - outdoor pool
Belgrave Lake Park
bbq - picnic shelter - water pump -off lead dog area - fitness equipment - basketball half court -lake and walking tracks
Emerald Lake Model Railway
Come and see one of the largest model railways in Australia & miniature world.
Lysterfield Lake
Canoeing, kayaking, sailing, picnic areas, biking trails, walking trails.
Alfred Nicholas Gardens
Walking trails wind through this scenic, wooded garden park with a boathouse, waterfalls & islands.
Local Swimming Pools
Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Belgrave Outdoor Pool, Olinda outdoor pool.
Birdsland Reserve
Walking, riding and mountain biking trails. Picnic areas. The Dargon Trail connects trail users to Lysterfield Lake Park.
Cardinia Reservoir Park
Walking, riding and mountain biking trails. Picnic areas, large playground, kangaroo viewing, walk the dam wall.
Burkes Lookout
Walking, riding and mountain biking trails. Perfect spot to look at the views towards the city.