ACCOMMODATION BELGRAVE SOUTH VIC

Folly Farm Rural Retreat - one perfectly private cottage retreat on ten acres for your country escape. The open plan cottage boasts an beautiful wrought iron chandelier, handmade by a local blacksmith, spotted gum floors, modern gas log fire and mix of timeless antique furniture with chic modern pieces sets the mood for the perfect getaway. Hearty breakfast provisions are provided each day for a relaxing breakfast in the English shepherds hut or on the veranda of your cottage. A separate en suite with corner spa and a small kitchen for preparing light meals. A second bathroom is available, this is an access bathroom built to Australian standards. Ramp access to cottage. Beautiful views, perfectly private. Historic gardens designed by Edna Walling. Say hello to our alpaca pets. The English shepherds Hut was designed and built at Folly Farm and boasting a beautiful daybed upholstered in a William Morris designed fabric, the hut also features a period style heater, drop sided table and chairs. Folly Farm is also pet friendly, your dog is welcome to sleep inside by the fire. Please contact operator for more information....

The perfect Dandenong Ranges getaway, Woolrich Retreat offers privacy, an open fire, a spa to soak in or a deck to relax on with a barbecue whilst overlooking the gardens - plus free entry to Cloudehill Gardens next door. Built in the 1920s, Woolrich Cottage's art deco features have been retained and restored to create this elegant accommodation. The cottage includes two bedrooms with large ensuites, as well as an indoor, four person jacuzzi hot tub under a glass skylight. The lounge room has an open fire, and a bay window with dining table. The kitchen has granite bench tops and a farmhouse sink. French doors open up onto a deck with a barbecue and outdoor furniture for alfresco dining with garden and mountain views. In French Provence style, the Garden Retreat is perfect for one couple with its king-size bed and double spa (separate shower). Miele appliances in the kitchen, leadlight windows in the bathroom and bedroom, television with Foxtel and DVD and a lovely open wood fire in the loungeroom, making this an experience to remember. Outside, the balcony is complete with barbecue and art deco table and chairs sits at the edge of a canopy of trees....

Lochiel Luxury Accommodation is situated on two hectares of natural rainforest and fern gullies in the heart of Olinda, Lochiel's stylish contemporary stone and timber cottages are masterpieces of modern design. Equipped with wood fires and central heating, the lounge rooms have polished timber floors with rugs in bold designs. The generous bathrooms boast two person oval spas in front of large picture windows, with all the fittings one would expect in five star accommodation, including separate showers. Each of the three Tri-Level Cottages have a king-size bedroom on the top level, with windows and balconies that open to the rainforest canopy. Lochiel's unique location allows guests to dine at Ranges or Credo, two popular local restaurants just two minutes walk away. Lochiel's original cottage looks the very image of traditional Dandenong's charm. There's no doubt that it comes from the same school of design as the new cottages, from the open airy layout and modern minimalist decor, to the stainless steel bench tops in the kitchen. The bedrooms have French doors that open onto a private fern filled courtyard with four-person spa pool. The weekend tariff at Lochiel Luxury Accommodation includes a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine on arrival and a Dandenong Ranges Tourism Award winning breakfast at Ranges Cafe Bar restaurant. If you are looking for time out with a small group of friends or a romantic weekend away, Lochiel Luxury Accommodation is an ideal choice.

Arcadia Cottages offers accommodation for couples in four separate cottages, all hidden away in three acres of forested gardens. The award winning cottages (Channel 9 getaway Top 10 in Australia) are situated at Olinda just east of Melbourne on top of Mount Dandenong (altitude 600 metres). Arcadia Cottages are off the busy Tourist Road but only 400 metres to the villages of Olinda and Mount Dandenong with approximately 12 restaurants to choose from. Each cottage has a log fire and conservatory. Two have spa baths and two have a cedar hot tub spa. Full breakfast provisions are included in the cottage for you to enjoy when you are ready. Arcadia Cottages also have its own dedicated day spa centre with two stunning treatment rooms and a guest lounge. Please view the website for a full description and tours of the cottages as well as several packages for you too enjoy. This property is not suitable for children....

Set among the majestic gum trees of Emerald in the Dandenong Ranges, Glenview Retreat Luxury Accommodation is the perfect escape, ideal for couples getting away for the weekend or visitors travelling with their pet. Whether you slip away for a few days mid-week or escape for a romantic weekend you will appreciate the quiet surrounds and fresh smell of the eucalypts as soon as you step from the car. While away your days on the lounge, soak amongst the bubbles in your spa or stroll the walking tracks of the Emerald Lake Park or Wright Forest. Wake in the morning to the bird chorus, while enjoying your Breakfast from the Gourmet Hamper of Egg's, Bacon, Juice, Milk, Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Bread and a selection of spreads provided in the privacy of your cottage. Visit the many cafes, restaurants and wineries of the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley. This spectacular country setting is home to many native birds including King Parrots, Rosellas and Galahs that are fed daily in your courtyard garden. Glenview Retreat aims to make your stay a comfortable, relaxing and indulgent.

Welcome to Wattle Tree Creek Cottages. Located in Emerald in the heart of the Dandenong ranges, Yarra Valley. Wattle Tree Creek Cottage offers the perfect base to explore this beautiful region with several renowned wineries that are close by as well as Puffing Billy. Whether celebrating that special occasion, a holiday or just a weekend away Wattle Tree Creek Cottages provides a personalised service and welcoming accommodation as well as a generous complimentary two course breakfast each day. Each individually themed cottages is set in a private forest with its very own creek for you to enjoy after a day exploring the many local attractions. All cottages have lounge, fully self-contained kitchen and laundry and television and DVD player in each room, private veranda and barbecue.

Camelot Tower and Penthouse is in a class of its own. Winner of Victoria's most prestigious award in building excellence from the Australian Institute of Building. The most romantic setting with a million dollar view of Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne city lights on an enchanted mountain, with attractions minutes away in any direction. The heart of the beautiful Dandenong Ranges can be your secret getaway, your base for exploring the many sights, attractions and bush tracks leading into the Doongalla Forest from the Penthouse Gardens. Be prepared to see kangaroos, wallabies and even deer passing through the property early in the mornings and evenings. A Camelot Tower and Penthouse is craftsman built offering luxurious accommodation in a unique and private setting. Attention to detail is obvious throughout and yours to enjoy. Quality fittings and furnishings are apparent within all of these superb establishments. Guests will enjoy breakfast delivered if required, and a well stocked fridge and pantry, and relax in their own king size full length oval spa bath for two. Among the many unique features of the property is an 18th century Geisha hut assembled over the spa bath in the Camelot Tower and a magnificent French Bed, one of the finest hand-sculptured beds in Australia, making it a unique feature in the Sandstone Cottage. The Penthouse features a wide custom-built spiral staircase built around a tree. Within a 45 minute drive from Melbourne city centre and easily accessed via public transport. The many restaurants including SkyHigh and craft shops of Olinda are only an eight minute walk away and only a further ten minutes to the National Rhododendron Gardens, the challenging Olinda Golf Course and the RJ Hamer Arboretum, take a picnic basket and enjoy the view.

Stay on a working farm in a large modern home with horses, alpacas and goats. Only 50 minutes from Melbourne, in a peaceful and quiet location with great views, the miniature goats are very friendly and enjoy human contact. Visitors to Emerald are spoiled with many local attractions; Puffing Billy, wineries, antique shops, Healesville Sanctuary, cherry picking farms, trout fishing farms and the 1000 Steps Kokoda bush walk. The modern home has four large bedrooms with comfy queen beds. Open living area and kitchen with full facilities and large flat screen television and DVD. The property can accommodate up to 13 guests . Excellent phone reception as well as free WiFi and Netflix. All bedding and towels supplied. Secure undercover fencing for your dog. Plenty to see and do nearby in Emerald; wineries, bushwalking, antique shops, golf, Sky High Observatory, trout farm, cherry picking farm, 1000 Steps Kokoda Walk, Puffing Billy Steam Train, Healesville Wildlife Zoo and bird watching. Shops and restaurants only a five minute drive to Emerald township, Flexible check in and check out times. Please call Brent for all inquiries and bookings on the number provided....

Fernglade on Menzies ofers private suites within a large Federation style homestead set on three acres beside the Menzies Creek. The accommodation for guests consists of four large and spacious open plan private suites within the homestead. Providing in total guest accommodation for twelve adults, plus infants. This consists of two spa suites for couples (two persons) and two family suites (sleeps four plus infants). The homestead is an ideal venue for elopement and small weddings. Wedding bookings have photo access to the period sitting and dining rooms, make up room, the properties sweeping gardens. The gardens retain the historic original 1900?s house made from gum tree logs and olive oil cans. A photographic classic of rustic charm with original wall papered interior, dirt floor, 1903 Dover wood burning stove and the smithy?s anvil and forge. The grounds feature teddy bear sheep, resident possums and the occasional wallaby or kangaroo hops by. Native bird life abounds both day and night, with king parrots, crimson Rosella, Honey eaters, Kookaburras and by night Mopoke and Powerful owls. Fernglade offers by arrangement astronomy stays hosted by space experts....

Gracehill Accommodation is a perfect memorable getaway for couples,friends or families in a relaxed enviroment to share in one of our one,two or three bedroom unique accommoation settings. All stylishly decorated offering a safe enviroment with spacious surroundings with the valley views over the ranges on the verandas with BBQ facilities, children's playground. Luscious quality linen and dressing gowns supplied Tariff includes a full selection of breakfast ingredients provisions for you to enjoy. Gracehill is only 1 hour from Mebourne CBD and close by are the local villages of Olinda, Mt Dandenong and Sassafras.

Como Cottages is set on two properties in the Olinda Village and is the perfect getaway for romantic weekends, overnight stays, families or groups. The romantic one bedroom cottages are on one property, whilst the two and three bedroom family cottages are 500 metres up the road. Lush gardens surround each cottage in their own private sanctuary. Each cottage is fully self-contained with creature comforts, with Wi-Fi internet and full breakfast provisions included in the price. Soak in a large two person corner spa or large bathtub with candles and incense burning (provided), while listening to your favourite music. Digital flat screen televisions and DVD's are also in each cottage. Put your feet up and relax in your cottage or walk to the villages (Olinda, Sassafras and Mount Dandenong) for some shopping at the craft shops or a bite to eat at the many fantastic restaurants in the area - just 500 metres in either direction. Try the massage spa, Elle Naturale Olinda, for massage and pampering packages. Please contact operator for details. Sightseeing options include The Sky High Observatory, The National Rhododendron Gardens, William Ricketts Sanctuary, Puffing Billy, Cloude Hill gardens, Burnham Beaches Estate, Healesville Sanctuary, Yarra Valley wineries & Chocolaterie (about 30 minute drive) or bush walking through the famous Sherbrooke forest. The retro Cameo Cinema is close by too. The Victorian style, cottages have polished boards, rugs, period furniture, coloured glass windows, open fires, gas 'Kooka' stoves and wrought iron beds (farmhouse and four poster). All breakfast ingredients for a good old-fashioned hot or cold breakfast are included in the price, as well as Twinnings teas and plunger coffee, loose tea and Moccona coffee. Choose from six cottages to stay for a weekend, overnight, a week or more. Weekend packages available. Extended check out available.

Alkira Cottages
Alkira Cottages offer family, romantic and friendly getaways.  The two self-contained cottages have fireplaces and each has their own private outdoor garden spa. 5968 1484 host@alkira.com.au www.alkira.com.au

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Carinya Park
Carinya Park is an Equestrian Property located in the lush green hills of the Dandenongs. The Orchard Cottage is situated in idyllic and very quiet surroundings ensuring privacy for guests. There are views over the newly established orchard, the forest and paddocks. The cottage has all the rustic charm of timber panelling and a mixture of Jarrah and recycled Hardwood flooring.  5967 7147 relax@carinyapark.com  www.carinyapark.com

Aura b and b

Aura of the Dandenongs Bed & Breakfast
Aura of the Dandenongs offer two bed & breakfast suites and located in Menzies Creek. The ‘Paris Room’ with a King single can be split into twin singles and the ‘Instabul Room’ boasts a lovely art deco double bed. An extra trundle can be provided to accommodate a family of five. Both rooms share the separate bathroom facilities. A sunny conservatory makes the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty that surrounds you. 1 Railway Parade, Menzies Creek 0410 020 610   anne@aurabnb.com.au http://www.aurabnb.com.au

Kookaburra - web (2 of 3)

Kookaburra Accommodation
Located in the heart of Gembrook Kookaburra Accommodation is ideal for couples, singles and families offering unique charm and contemporary style. An open plan design, accommodates up to five people and walking distance to cafes, shops and puffing billy. 0437 657 761  lizhug@7mail.com  www.kookaburraaccommodation.com.au

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Warley Cottages
Warley Cottages are situated on the edge of Bunyip State Forest. There are 3 self contained cottages to choose from, one 2 bedroom with spa and 2 single bedroom. English style breakfast ingredients are supplied. 5968 1635 info@warleycottages.com.au  www.warleycottages.com.au
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Belgrave Big Dreams Market is on the second Sunday of each month (except January). A makers and growers market where you will find fresh local produce, artisan breads, great coffee, bespoke craft and design pieces alongside hot street food, live music and activities for the kids. Entry is free. A short walk from Belgrave Station....

For the fourth year, the Ridge Top CFA Brigades Of Olinda, Sassafras Ferny Creek and Kalorama Mt Dandenong will host this amazing day full of fun and fire safety information. There will be loads to see and do. Heaps of free fun kids activities including face painting, craft activities, balloon animals and jumping castles. So many attendees to help you with your planning and preparations, such as the three local 100% volunteer CFA fire brigades, Emerald SES, Monbulk CFA Road Rescue, Parks Victoria, DELWP, Red Cross, St John, Yarra Ranges Council as well as the CFA Mobile Education Unit. Loads of information to take home and so many CFA volunteers to talk to about how you and your family can be planned and prepared for this fire season. Demonstrations throughout the day and so many activities for the kids. Food available. A great community day, so come and support your local 100% volunteer fire brigade. Please search 'Are You Ready Ridge Top? - Fire Safety Information Event' on Facebook to find out further information about this event....

Burrinja is a vibrant community cultural centre in the Dandenong Ranges with a clear, creative and community-based vision for the region: Building Community through Arts. Burrinja?s function and purpose are built on a multi-element vision and program across diverse art forms and cultural activities. The centre is a cultural hub for the Dandenong Ranges that supports existing and enables the development of new, experiential and distinctive arts practice, providing outcomes that contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the region. The centre encompasses multiple gallery spaces and artists? studios, a world-class collection of Indigenous and oceanic art, 400 seat theatre, black box space, kids ?stay and play? art activities, rehearsal, making and meeting spaces, community cultural development projects, museum collection management, live music, Indigenous cultural garden and Burrinja Caf? and Bar. Open Tuesday to Sunday Burrinja is fabulous place to experience great art; from theatre to exhibitions and studios....

Join family, friends or work colleagues for the unique Dine and Dance on Puffing Billy. Share this unique dinner and dance experience on board this heritage steam train. Relax in first class dining carriages and savour your entr?e whilst travelling to the historic Nobelius Packing Shed. The enclosed dining carriages are heated in winter to ensure your journey is both comfortable and enjoyable. In the rustic informality of the Nobelius Packing Shed, you'll be sure to enjoy the blazing log fire during the cooler months. Enjoy a hearty meal at the shed, before a musical entertainer invites everyone to join the dance floor. A musical entertainer will have you up on the dance floor until the driver blows the whistle signalling your return to the train. On the return journey, tea, coffee and dinner chocolates will be served. A range of beverages including local wines are available for purchase aboard the train and at 'The Shed'. Dine and Dance on Puffing Billy departs from Puffing Billy's Belgrave Station at 7.30pm on selected Fridays and 7pm on selected Saturdays. Arrival back into Belgrave Station is approximately 11.30pm....

Lysterfield Park is a beautiful spot, not far from Melbourne, offering a range of recreational activities. This is a great place for mountain biking. The Lysterfield Park Mountain Bike Trails and the State Mountain Bike course offers 20 kilometres of trails catering for riders of all ages and ability. Choose from easy family trails for all to enjoy around the lake and parkland, a range of flowing single trails through established plantations or steep and technical sections of trail through rocky landscapes Lysterfield Lake is very popular for canoeing, sailing, paddle boating and surf skiing. There are also a number of walking tracks including three trails that are linked for a brisk two-hour walk around the lake. The park is open from 8am to 8pm during daylight saving time. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe. ...

A survey exhibition of one of the Central Desert art movement?s most important artists Emily Kame Kngwarreye. Credited with taking Australian indigenous art to the world ?Emily? is one of Australia's most iconic and collectable painters. An Anmatyerre elder, keeper of the Alhalkere Women's Dreaming stories, she was in in her 70?s before she began capturing this deeply significant cultural heritage on canvas. This exhibition is part of Burrinja's Masters of Aboriginal Contemporary Art series which presents an intriguing portrait of Australia?s most revered Aboriginal and contemporary artists....

Famous High Tea is on special until 30th November. Situated in the stunning Dandenong Ranges, just 50 minutes from Melbourne, the Cuckoo is close to popular tourist destinations like Puffing Billy Railway and Healesville Sanctuary. This buzzing 400 seat restaurant offers a delectable smorgasbord in a warm and welcoming family atmosphere. Decorated in the style of a Bavarian chalet and with staff dressed in traditional costume, The Cuckoo has been attracting locals and visitors from all over the world for nearly sixty years. With an abundance of food to satisfy all, the delicious international smorgasbord is prepared by first class chefs and the amazing range of cakes and pastries are made fresh daily. Most dietary needs can be catered for. Live entertainment at each session includes music and a floor show, cow bell ringing and yodelling equal to any in Bavaria...

Olinda Country Cottages and your hosts Kathy and Wally, offer two self contained standalone air conditioned spa cottages and also a two bedroom family suite (suitable for five guests) in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges - only 90 minutes drive from Melbourne Airport. The cottages have king beds, some cooking facilities and a garden balcony. Breakfast is self-served and generous organic produce. Located in the heart of Olinda with walking distance to local eateries, cafes and galleries. With bush walking tracks just outside the property, there is lots to enjoy. You could also just sit in the sunny old garden under the amazing 130 year old Sequoia tree and contemplate the world or read that favourite book. Enjoy Olinda's stately gardens and forests. Puffing Billy and William Ricketts are icons for the area. Drive 40 minutes to the Yarra Valley and its wineries, Healesville Sanctuary and other attractions. Even Phillip island and its Penguin sanctuary are an easy 90 minute drive away. Just a 15 minute drive to the local train station and less than one hour by train to the centre of Melbourne. 10 minutes from Monbulk, Belgrave and five minutes from Sassafras....

Located north of Cardinia Reservoir, Aura Vale Lake plays a very important role in Melbourne's water supply. The lake forms part of a drainage system designed to channel run-off water from neighbouring properties and roads, and stop it entering the main reservoir. This system prevents polluted water from affecting the quality of our drinking water. Over the past years Aura Vale Lake Park has become a popular venue for boating activities including sailboarding and canoeing and for other small non-powered boats up to 3.3 metres. Swimming is not permitted due to poor water quality and submerged objects. The park is open 10am to 6pm during daylight saving time. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe. ...

Have you been looking for a chance to step back, relax and reconnect with your loved one, family members or a group of friends? Steam and Cuisine After Dark is Puffing Billy's brand new evening dining experience, and provides a perfect opportunity to do just that. Allow them to set the scene. Upon arrival at Puffing Billy's Belgrave Station you will immediately be struck by the quiet atmosphere of the evening at this otherwise busy tourist attraction. Live music adds to the ambience as you take in the nostalgia of steam and watch the train crew prepare the historic locomotive for its departure. Before long, our friendly train hosts will welcome you on board the beautifully restored dining carriages. This really is Puffing Billy like you've never seen before. As you sit back and relax in the cozy carriage booths, the train host will take your beverage orders and suddenly you'll feel the train departing from the station. Underway, you can enjoy the lights of Melbourne after dark whilst our live musical entertainer further adds to the rustic atmosphere of the inviting carriages. Find out more on the website....

The Dandenong Ranges Visitor Information Centre provides quality information to visitors regarding the area including the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong Ranges and surrounds. The Visitor Information Centre holds a wide range of brochure material including maps and provides on the spot information for anything from accessing local attractions via public transport to identifying the level of difficulty associated with the abundance of walking tracks in the Dandenong Ranges. An accommodation booking service is also provided to visitors over the telephone or in person at the Visitor Information Centre premises....

Experience a night of fine wine, food and live musical entertainment aboard Rhythm and Blues on Puffing Billy. From the moment you arrive at Puffing Billy's Belgrave station platform, you will be entertained by local Melbourne Blues band, Black and Blue. Rhythm and Blues on Puffing Billy will journey through the Dandenong Ranges all the way up to the historic Nobelius Packing Shed. The enclosed dining carriages are heated in winter to ensure your journey is both comfortable and enjoyable. During the forward journey your entr?e will be served before disembarking at the historic Nobelius Packing Shed. On the return journey, tea, coffee and dinner chocolates will be served. In the rustic informality of the Nobelius Packing Shed, you will be sure to enjoy the blazing log fire during the cooler months. The carvery includes various roast meats, vegetables and salads, and is followed by various dessert options. A range of beverages including local wines are available for purchase. Black and Blue will keep you entertained at the Nobelius Packing Shed until the driver blows the whistle signalling your return to the train....

There is no better place for atmosphere, festive fare, value and fun during the Silly Season than the Cuckoo Restaurant. Bring friends and family to the Cuckoo for the very best celebration this Christmas. The four course smorgasbord is always amazing and at this time of the year it is bulging with seasonal delights including traditional Christmas fare. Santa will be there to add a little magic and the forest setting here in the Dandenongs make this the perfect venue to celebrate. Please note that the venue books out early for Christmas events....

Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club is hosting the Scoresby Steamfest. There will be displays of blacksmithing and old time crafts, vintage tools, model boats on the lake, model planes, books, videos, vintage radio and much more. The Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club operates a vintage engine museum set in six hectares of parkland in the south eastern suburb of Scoresby. In all, there are several hundred engines and related exhibits housed in a number of exhibition sheds around the grounds. From huge steam ploughing engines to tiny models. steam vehicles, a Sherman tank, industrial steam and diesel engines, old farm engines (including tractors) and machinery, earth moving machinery, early road making equipment, teams of draught horses, vintage cars and trucks . Steam exhibits include traction engines, among them a pair of massive Fowler Z7 steam ploughing engines, steam rollers, portable engines and a large and varied collection of industrial and marine stationary steam engines and pumps. There is a period workshop and a diesel engine section. You are unlikely to see a comparable display of large diesel generators elsewhere. The smaller internal combustion engines are also well represented. There are displays of tractors, agricultural equipment and early road working and earth moving machinery. An added attraction for the kids is the miniature railway which operates every Sunday. The museum is open for static display each weekend but most of the engines are in running order and on the last Sunday of the month a selection can be seen in operation. The grounds are attractively laid out with a lake, barbecues and shady picnic areas. The 1 kilometre miniature railway track circuits the grounds. So what are you waiting for? Come ride around the grounds on the miniature steam railway. ...

Established in 1893, Coonara Springs is one of the oldest restaurants in the Dandenong Ranges. Beautifully positioned amongst seven acres with views across the the Yarra Valley, Coonara Springs has recently undergone and extensive refurbishment program to restore its rich history. A traditional victorian weatherboard property, features include open fireplaces, chandeliers, original antique furniture and Edna Walling themed gardens. Old menus from the past hang on the walls and the kitchen features the original Aga stove which has been restored and on display. The restaurant floor is an intimate space with leather banquets and tables overlooking the gardens. Our food is a set two or three course menu featuring contemporary Australian Cusine with a country style flavour... Aga roasted lamb, Slow cook beef cheek, Southern Ocean Snapper, Roasted Beetroot with Black Savourine. Our menu is seasonal and is influenced by what is available in our own vegetable garden.. A unique dining destination, perfect for a celebration or a special occasion- stroll through our gardens, visit the natural spring, take in the views across the Yarra Valley and dine in the restaurant.........Retire to the lounge in comfort by the open fires and soak up the history of the iconic Coonara Springs.....

Churchill National Park in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs remains as an example of the original landscape before clearing and settlement. Although most of the park is open regrowth woodland, there are small areas of original forest. Tracks throughout the park are ideal for peaceful walks. Channel Track, running beside the old aqueduct, wanders through a thickly wooded landscape. Some of the tracks are also suitable for jogging and cycling, particularly on the eastern boundary track. The park is open from 10am to 6pm during daylight saving time. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe....

Your senses will be touched from the moment you enter through the gates. Rocky Creek Art Garden is located in the midst of the main tourist area of the Dandenong Ranges. Rocky Creek is only a moment away from the Sassafras and Olinda Villages, the national parks and other well known tourist attractions. Within the 3.25 acre land, the most tranquil and picturesque 90 year old garden shows its charming beauty, the large stone-built structure boasts a unique combination of original character and wonderful artistic flair. The old garden and forest with century old and large flowering trees can be explored via 250 metres of pathways. It contains 90 year old Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Camellias, Japanese Maples, Beech Trees, Hydrangeas and one of the biggest Magnolia trees in the region....

Take time out to relax and indulge with your special someone. Mountain Element Retreats offers your very own contemporary, elegant and self contained apartment in a tranquil setting in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges State Forest, giving you the ideal couples escape. Featuring a full kitchen with stone bench-top, cook top, brushed stainless steel dishwasher, large size fridge, dining table and your own viewing window to the treetops. A cosy and spacious lounge with a built in gas log fire and recessed flat-screen television and forest views, an elegantly appointed king bedroom with superior mattress and pillows and divine fluffy robes, a double spa in your ensuite bathroom and a separate shower. A spacious outdoor covered balcony with barbecue, dining table and sun bed, a superior organic breakfast hamper with local and homemade ingredients for each day of stay. Mountain Element Retreats are eco friendly - they clean and launder strictly with non-toxic detergents....

Yarra Ranges Estate proudly host seasonal Sunday lunches throughout the calendar year with a variety of live entertainment. Their platter and menu options are made from the best, high-quality, local and seasonal produce, which is complimented by their own Estate wine. First established in 1996 as a winery, 20 years on Yarra Ranges Estate are living their vision as an award winning Estate with a rustic, country style function and dining centre, which is now the hub of their venue. Come along and explore what Yarra Ranges Estate have to offer amongst their picturesque vines, sprawling gardens and breath-taking views, that surrounds their 30 acre Estate. Spoil yourself with the Estate's Cellar Door tastings of their own wine too. Yarra Ranges Estate host a variety of occasions, events, weddings, and lunches throughout the year. The Estate is only an hour drive away from Melbourne city centre. Yarra Ranges Estate is a choice venue for any family-friendly, business or personal occasion. Yarra Ranges Estate caters to all dietary requirements....

Enjoy a full festive buffet lunch at Mist in Olinda The Christmas Day Lunch will take place in the fully renovated function and events centre situated in the heart of the National Rhododendron Gardens. Bookings are essential, please contact operator for more information....

Come to the Friends of GTMG spring plant sale. Plants propagated from our collection, and donated from the Friends' gardens, will include: Aquilegias, Cardiocrinums, Cyclamen, Epimediums, perennials and bulbs for shade and sun will be featured. Perennials include Hellebores. Hydrangeas, Lilium martagon and many more will be on sale. Photowalk - You are invited to bring your camera as the garden will be bright with spring freshness. You are most welcome to join the Friends' Group on FLICKR [George Tindale Memorial Garden]. It is free and you can upload your Tindale Garden images....

Situated in the National Rhododendron Gardens is the newly renovated function and events centre Mist at Olinda. Together with the Cafe Vireya, visitors can expect a fantastic experience. After taking in the stunning surrounds of the Rhododendron Gardens, you can relax at the cafe with a Devonshire Tea, light lunch with refreshments or a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate and enjoy. Mist at Olinda is the newly renovated function and events centre which is open for special events such as Christmas Day, Father's Day, Mother's Day and much, much more....

Wominjeka: A New Beginning celebrates 30 years of the Koorie Heritage Trust. This project highlights cultural continuities alongside new modes of creative practice in the work of five cross-generational early career artists; Georgia MacGuire, Aunty Marlene Gilson, Mitch Mahoney, Josh Muir and Raymond Young. Each of the participating artists has developed new work in dialogue with the Trust?s significant collections of objects, artworks, archives and oral histories ? each identifying objects and artifacts that share or spark a connection with their own artistic practice, personal or cultural enquiry. Over a three-month period the artists worked alongside senior mentors; Maree Clarke, Lee Darroch, Ray Thomas and Peter Waples-Crowe to explore the Trust?s Collections and to develop new works in dialogue with the past. The exhibition presents this new work alongside the objects of inspiration from the Trust?s collection. Exhibited works utilise a broad array of media, materials and techniques including; painting, animal skin cloaks and textiles, bark and feather flowers, clay shields and digital prints. Exhibition coordinator: Jan Duffy, Koorie Heritage Trust...

Come to Chesterfield Farm and experience a little bit of farm life in the city, on a real working farm. Milk a cow, feed and play with the baby farm animals in the nursery, have a tractor ride and watch the working dogs in action with the sheep. There is a large range of private functions and corporate function areas within the property, all with the real feeling of being in country on the 110 hectare spread....