Best Places To Visit Around Melbourne For Nature Enthusiasts

Royal Botanic Gardens VictoriaSpanning 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.Dandenong Ranges National ParkThis 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.Phillip Island Nature ParksKnown 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.Grampians National ParkFamous 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.Yarra ValleyRenowned 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.Mornington PeninsulaFeatures 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.Great Otway National ParkEncompassing 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.Wilson’s Promontory National ParkKnown 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.Healesville SanctuaryVisitors 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.Organ Pipes National ParkNamed 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.10 Native Animals To Spot On Your Australia TourRead More