Best Places To Visit Around Melbourne For Nature Enthusiasts

OT Staff

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Spanning 94 acres, these gardens are home to over 8,500 plant species worldwide. Highlights include the tranquil Ornamental Lake, the lush Fern Gully, and the serene Guilfoyle’s Volcano. Perfect for walks, picnics, and birdwatching.

The serene landscape of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria | Shutterstock

Dandenong Ranges National Park

This park features towering mountain ash trees, lush fern gullies, and scenic lookouts like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. Popular activities include hiking the 1,000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk and enjoying the cool mountain air.

A Crimson Rosella in the Dandenong Ranges | Shutterstock

Phillip Island Nature Parks

Known for its nightly Penguin Parade, where little penguins return to shore at sunset. The island also features the Koala Conservation Centre, Nobbies Centre with stunning coastal views, and the Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Penguins at the Phillip Island Nature Parks | Shutterstock

Grampians National Park

Famous for its rugged sandstone mountain ranges, including the iconic Pinnacle and Boroka Lookouts. The park is rich in Aboriginal heritage, with ancient rock art sites like Bunjil’s Shelter. Ideal for hiking and rock climbing.

Hiker standing on cliff edge at sunset in the Grampians National Park | Shutterstock

Yarra Valley

Renowned for its world-class wineries, the region offers picturesque vineyards, gourmet food experiences, and scenic drives. Highlights include hot air ballooning over the valley and visiting the Healesville Sanctuary and Yarra Valley Farmers Market.

The charming Australian Laughing Kookaburra at the Yarra Valley | Shutterstock

Mornington Peninsula

Features stunning beaches like Sorrento and Portsea, natural hot springs at Peninsula Hot Springs, and scenic coastal walks along the Two Bays Walking Track. The region is also known for its charming seaside towns and wineries.

A sunny day at Mornington Peninsula | Shutterstock

Great Otway National Park

Encompassing lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls like Erskine Falls, and rugged coastlines along the Great Ocean Road, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including koalas. It offers excellent opportunities for camping and hiking.

Path in the rainforest at Triplet Falls in the The Great Otway National Park | Shutterstock

Wilson’s Promontory National Park

Known as “The Prom,” this park features pristine beaches like Squeaky Beach, granite mountains such as Mount Oberon, and diverse wildlife including wombats and emus. It is Ideal for camping, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty.

A view of the Wilson’s Promontory National Park | Shutterstock

Healesville Sanctuary

Visitors can see koalas, kangaroos, platypuses, and more here. The sanctuary also offers interactive experiences like the Spirits of the Sky bird show and the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts.

Black-Necked Stork t Healesville Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Organ Pipes National Park

Named for its unique basalt columns that resemble organ pipes, formed by ancient volcanic activity. The park also features the Tessellated Pavement and Rosette Rock. It is an Ideal place for geology enthusiasts.

Desert landscape with cacti at Organ Pipes National Park | Shutterstock

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