Drive to the upper reaches of the Dandenong Ranges for a SkyHigh adventure, or just a relaxing forest walk followed by a picnic or barbecue lunch, or dinner with a view.
Let the kids find their way out of the hedge maze, collecting stamps in a special passport along the way to earn themselves a prize. The maze is full of sculptures and optical illusions, making it fun for adults too.
Stroll through the English Garden, a peaceful green haven set between the tall Australian blackwoods and eucalypts of the Dandenong Ranges.The garden’s flowers, banksia trees and azalea shrubs attract all sorts of colorful birds and insects.
Cross the bridge spanning the pebbly creek and follow the winding paths to the Australiana Tree, sculpted by the artist Leigh (Roy) Conkie. See if the kids can find Percy Possum's House, but be quiet because this adventurous possum of the famous children’s books may still be fast asleep. For a great photo opportunity, get the whole family to sit on the Giant’s Chair.
A short forest loop from the SkyHigh grounds takes you down into the Dandenong Ranges. Avid walkers can tackle the 4-hour return Burkes Lookout Trail to the Kyeema monument, the site of a 1938 plane crash.
Use the park’s barbecue area or order a meal in the bistro while the kids run around the Spinning World Fountain. The bistro’s open fire makes for a welcoming gathering place in winter. Use the binoculars out front to spot the landmarks of Melbourne and bobbing boats in Port Phillip Bay.
Dining in the SkyHigh restaurant with a view of the setting sun and the twinkling city lights is as good as it gets during a romantic night out. Otherwise, come on Sunday around noon for a roast meal or later in the day for “Afternoon Tea” with light sandwiches, sweet and savory treats.
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is open year-round. The restaurant and bistro have limited opening hours, so check the website before your visit. It takes about an hour to drive here from the heart of Melbourne. There is a gate fee to enter the car park on the top.
