[2025 Melbourne Attraction] Travel Guide for Dandenong Ranges (Updated May)

Puffing Billy is a historic steam train line located in #Melbourne, #Australia. This train route is about 24 kilometers long, starting in Belgrave and ending in Gembrook. It is one of the most famous steam trains in Australia. Historical background: Puffing Billy opened in 1900 and was once an important means of transportation in the area. Today it has become a popular tourist attraction. Spectacular scenery: The train passes through beautiful forests, valleys and streams along the way, and passengers can enjoy spectacular natural scenery, especially in the setting of the Dandenong Ranges. Interactive experience: Passengers can open the windows and stick their legs out of the car to feel the unique charm of the steam train, which is an experience that many tourists love. Family-Friendly: This is an ideal choice for a family trip, and children will especially love this nostalgic mode of transportation. Mt Dandenong Ranges A mountain region east of Melbourne known for its stunning natural scenery and abundant outdoor activities. SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is a popular viewing point offering spectacular 360-degree views of Melbourne and the surrounding countryside. Wineries and Restaurants: There are many wineries and restaurants around the Dandenong Ranges, offering local food and wine, suitable for tasting and resting. Wildlife: The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife and visitors can observe koalas, kangaroos and a variety of birds. #puffingbilly and #mtdandenong are two of Melbourne's most popular tourist destinations, offering something for everyone from history buffs to nature lovers. The combination of these two regions allows visitors to enjoy a nostalgic #steamtrain journey while appreciating the magnificent natural scenery, making it the perfect choice for exploring Melbourne.

Dandenong Ranges, located about 50 kilometers from Melbourne's city center, is an ideal natural getaway featuring stunning landscapes, charming villages, and dense forests. It is often regarded as Melbourne's most beautiful and well-designed outdoor garden. Visit the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden to explore its breathtaking gardens, admire a variety of ferns and towering trees, and discover the diversity of native and exotic plants. Don't forget to enjoy the spectacular views from the lookout points. The garden was established by the Australian Rhododendron Society, with many plants grafted and cultivated by society members from their own nurseries. Over the years, it has grown to house tens of thousands of various flowers. The National Rhododendron Garden is worth visiting at any time of the year, as it is filled with vibrant rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, cherry blossoms, and daffodils. With the changing seasons, surprises await year-round. Admission: Free Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 AM - 4:30 PM

Exploring the lush Dandenong Ranges on a mushroom foraging adventure — nature’s treasure hunt right on Melbourne’s doorstep. Autumn in the Dandenongs means crisp air, quiet trails, and wild mushrooms waiting to be found. Foraging season is here! It’s an interesting and free activity to do in Melbourne. What you need to bring is a tray to put your mushrooms, glove and shovel if you dont want to get dirty. #dandenongranges #melbourne #Mushroomforaging #Autumnmelbourne

#springitinerary There's something magical about Melbourne in spring! The air carries the sweet scent of jasmine as parks transform into floral wonderlands. I love sipping flat whites at sidewalk cafes while watching the city shake off winter's chill. The Melbourne International Flower Show dazzles, and even ordinary streets become Insta-worthy with cascading wisteria. Perfect 20°C days invite leisurely bike rides along the Capital City Trail. For nature lovers, the Dandenong Ranges burst with life - don't miss the tulip farms!

Currently, there are still spots available for the 28th and 29th! Hurry up and book now! Today, I’m sharing a super-packed one-day tour around Melbourne! 🌈 From the iconic Brighton Beach Boxes to adorable penguins, this itinerary covers all the must-visit spots. Save it now! ✨ Highlights of the Tour: ✅ Snap photos at the Instagram-famous Brighton Beach Boxes ✅ Ride the vintage Puffing Billy Steam Train ✅ Get up close with Australia’s cutest animals ✅ Watch the heartwarming Penguin Parade 🚌 One-Day Itinerary: 🕘 Depart from Melbourne City 🌈 Brighton Beach Boxes The first stop is the famous Brighton Beach Boxes! With 82 colorful wooden huts lined up along the beach, each with unique designs, it’s a photographer’s paradise. Wear light-colored outfits for the best photos! 🐨 Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park (Optional) Here, you can cuddle a koala! Plus, there are kangaroos, wombats, and other iconic Australian animals. A must-visit for animal lovers! Don’t forget to book your koala photo session in advance. 🚂 Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience the charm of this century-old steam train! The unique thrill of dangling your feet out of the carriage while traveling through the Dandenong Ranges feels like stepping back in time. 🌊 Nobbies Centre (Time Permitting) If time allows, make sure to visit this spot! With a stunning 270-degree view of the Bass Strait, the dramatic coastal scenery is breathtaking, especially on windy days. 🐧 Penguin Parade at Phillip Island The highlight of the day! At dusk, groups of little penguins waddle ashore to return to their nests. It’s absolutely adorable! Remember, no photography is allowed to protect the penguins’ eyes. 🕘 Return to Melbourne City This one-day itinerary is packed with activities! From morning till night, every stop is unique and memorable. Watching the penguins return home is especially heart-melting. If you’re visiting Melbourne, this is a must-try experience!

A trip to Puffing Billy, one of Australia’s most iconic heritage steam railways, offers a nostalgic and breathtaking journey through the lush forests and rolling hills of the Dandenong Ranges. Located about one hour from Melbourne, this century-old railway is a must-visit for history buffs, families, and nature lovers alike. 🚆 Starting the Journey: Boarding at Belgrave Station The adventure begins at Belgrave Station, the starting point of the Puffing Billy Railway. Visitors can explore the historic steam locomotives, take photos, and watch the train crew prepare for departure. As the whistle blows, the train slowly chugs forward, releasing plumes of steam into the crisp mountain air. 🌲 Riding Through the Dandenong Ranges The open-sided carriages allow passengers to dangle their legs over the edge, a beloved tradition on Puffing Billy. The train crosses the famous Monbulk Creek trestle bridge, offering spectacular views of the valley below. The journey winds through dense fern forests, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing a relaxing escape from city life. Scenic Stops & Activities Along the Route: 📍Menzies Creek Museum 🏛 A short stop where visitors can see vintage locomotives, rail artifacts, and railway memorabilia. 📍Emerald Lake Park 🌿 A beautiful picnic spot where travelers can take a break, walk around the lake, and enjoy nature. 📍Gembrook (Final Stop) 🏡 A charming town with cafés, local shops, and walking trails, perfect for a relaxing afternoon before the return trip. #australiatrip #melboune #nature #naturalwonders #thingstodo #familytravel #citydaytours #train