The Dandenong Ranges Scenic Route

Dandenong Ranges: A Journey Through Nature, Nostalgia & Panoramic Wonders

🕒 Duration 7 -8 hours

Escape into the enchanting landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges, where lush forests, charming villages, and breathtaking lookouts create a day of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

Our journey begins at the Ferntree Gully Quarry Recreation Reserve, a hidden oasis where towering cliffs surround a tranquil lake. This peaceful retreat offers a perfect start to the day, with fresh mountain air and scenic walking trails.

Next, we step back in time aboard Puffing Billy, Australia’s most iconic steam train. As the whistle blows and steam billows into the sky, we journey through emerald-green fern gullies, over historic trestle bridges, and past towering mountain ash forests. Lean out the open carriages, feel the crisp breeze on your face, and relive the golden age of travel in this unforgettable experience.

After a magical ride, we pause for a delicious local lunch, indulging in the region’s best seasonal produce and warm country hospitality. From hearty comfort food to gourmet delights, every bite is a taste of the Dandenong’s rich culinary scene.

The adventure continues at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, where vibrant floral displays burst into color against a backdrop of cool rainforest. Wander through rhododendrons, cherry blossoms, and rare plant species, each turn revealing a new wonder in this horticultural paradise.

A quick but meaningful stop at St Michael’s Church follows—a charming historic chapel nestled among the trees. Whether for a quiet moment of reflection or to admire its picturesque architecture, this hidden gem adds a touch of tranquility to our journey.

From there, we make our way to Silvan Dam Lookout, a breathtaking vantage point where the vast reservoir stretches beneath us, framed by rolling hills and dense forests. The panoramic views are a reminder of nature’s grandeur, offering a moment to pause and take it all in.

As the grand finale, we ascend to the Mount Dandenong Observatory, where sweeping views of Melbourne and beyond unfold before us. On a clear day, the city skyline shimmers in the distance, a striking contrast to the lush wilderness that surrounds us. Whether enjoying a sunset spectacle or the twinkling lights of the city at dusk, this moment is the perfect way to conclude our journey through the Dandenong Ranges.

Join us for a day where nostalgia, nature, and breathtaking scenery come together—an adventure that lingers in the heart long after the journey ends.

Tour inclusions: 

• Pick up & Drop off

• Expert local guide in multiple languages with in-depth knowledge and engaging stories

• Private top class vehicle

• Free souvenir gift bag

• Free local snacks

• Unlimited bottled water

• Entrance and ticket fees covered

• Lunch provided (up to $30)

• One of the best experiences you will ever have!