Located in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, approximately one hour drive from the CBD, is the Royal Botanical Gardens of Victoria Cranbourne Gardens. Also known as the Australian Garden, this is an inspiring and comprehensive display of Australian flora.
This award winning garden is a wonderful place to relax, walk around and enjoy being surrounded by nature. There are many seats where you can sit down, have a rest and take in the beauty around you. If you are more of the energetic type, there are walking tracks around the garden area that make for a pleasant walk.
There is a visitor centre, kiosk, cafe and gift shop, providing all that you need to be able to enjoy a full day at the gardens. There is also a picnic area with BBQ facilities. Disabled access is catered for and there is also a motorised people mover that circulates the garden every 20 minutes. You can plan your day at the Royal Botanical Gardens Victoria website.
For the photographer, the Cranbourne Gardens provides wonderful opportunities to capture great images. The fauna is brilliant for macro and close up photography, there is iconic Australian Bush for the landscape photographer, interesting buildings for the architectural buff and lots of birds for the wildlife photographer. It is no wonder these gardens are a popular location for photography excursions.
With free entry, the Australian Garden is well worth the journey to Cranbourne, to spend a day, taking in and discovering the unique native flora. Add the blissful chirps of the birds and the fresh air with the hint of slight botanical perfume and you have a relaxing day where you can enjoy nature and restore the soul.