Amazing well kept grounds. The autumn colours were gorgeous! The different sections made wandering around interesting. Although a bit pricey for entry to a garden, I can understand how expensive it would be to maintain such a place. I would love to see the garden again in springtime.

Absolutely stunning gardens with breathtaking views all year round. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with so much to explore – from the formal gardens and hidden pathways to the water features and the lake. It’s a peaceful and relaxing place, perfect for a day out with family or friends. A place where heaven meets.

It is a spectacular 65 hectare private garden that is open to the public. It is considered to be one of the the largest and most spectacular cool climate gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. It has sprawling gardens, maze, chapel, stumpery, aviary, garden rooms and every other feature across the garden. Popular place, need to go early to avoid the heat as well. Fair bit of walking around, some under shade. Uneven terrain, lot of walking on paved pathways mostly. Popular with tourists and locals. You can spend several hours here depending on your interests. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Toilets available. Restaurant available at main entry/exit point. Beautiful place. Lots to see. Parking is easy at off peak times. Great place for photography. You can book ready installed tents for overnight stays.

A very wonderful place to visit. We went there Autumn season. The weather was perfect and the plants are vibrant. I suggest coming early to secure parking. We were not able to do the maze simply because we have a pram and a 2 year old with us. Nonetheless, the experience was worthwhile.

There was a lovely woman and a kind man at the café—maybe the owners or staff—and both were super friendly and welcoming. I asked for my coffee to be really hot, and they nailed it! (Not everyone gets that right.) The atmosphere was so cozy and peaceful. We spent around two hours walking in the garden, and had a great time with the kids. Thank you so much for your genuine kindness and warm smiles. ☺️ I absolutely recommend this place!

Lovely cool climate garden. Will be spectacular a little later in the spring, and stunning during autumn. Cafe on site, staff friendly and helpful. We had a shared cheese/ meat platter for lunch, very filling. We visited during the week, and it was quite busy, would be extra busy on weekends and during holidays. Will be back to check it out during different seasons 💐🪻🍁🍂

A beautifully created garden complimented by perfect surrounds and amenities. Supported by generous vehicle access and parking. A truly delightful day out for the whole family seeking an inspirational outing.

A true icon and amazing destination for not only car racing fans. The views are beautiful, especially on a clear winter morning with the low cloud across parts of the town. Everyone you speak to on the mountain has a smile on their face. The walk is awesome and a great heart starter before jumping back in the car for a 3 hour drive. Thoroughly recommend the visit.

One of the all time greatest experiences of a life time. All fans of motorsport need to go to Mt Panorama, Bathurst at least once in your life. Awesome!

Finally made it to Mount Panorama, and wow, what an experience! Even when there’s no race on, just driving the circuit at normal speed gives you chills. The elevation changes, the sharp turns, the views over Bathurst… it’s unreal to imagine the pros flying through it at full speed. I stopped a few times to take in the scenery and honestly, every corner has history written all over it. The National Motor Racing Museum nearby is also worth the visit. So much passion and heritage packed into one place. Whether you’re into motorsport or just love a scenic drive with serious Aussie character, Mount Panorama is a must-visit. I left with a full heart, a phone full of photos, and a huge smile. Can’t wait to go back! 🏁🇦🇺

It was interesting to have a look at the track and get an idea of what it's like to drive around. Speed limit is 60 can't imagine the speed the drivers do and in terrible weather conditions like this year. They are crazy or very brave

Nice track to drive for a taste of the car race even at 60km/h. The view at top of the mountain is wonderful

The vintage motor car museum collection was really nice to see. The beautifully preserved cars and classic designs made it an enjoyable and nostalgic experience.

Ita the best place ever. Bathurst 1000 is the greatest event.

Good to those who enjoys nature and wants to do swimming as well❤️❤️ must to visit. Felt fresh amd refreshing. Child friendly environment as well.

A lovely place to relax, get your feet wet and meet friendly locals, both human and bird variety. Not too far out of Orange. Accessible and plenty of parking

Orange doesn’t have many destinations, so I end up coming here almost every week. This is the best spot! I love the view—it’s amazing and it’s free. No wonder people keep coming; it’s the perfect place to relax when you’re feeling tired.

Relaxing place to have a get together. It’s a great place to walk, run or rest. You can cross to the other side of the lake by walking on the Dam. Lovely spot. Toilets, BBQ, Kids playground available. Parking plenty

A great spot in the summer. Fast to get to and plenty of parking. Not crowed out. Swimming was great. Water was refreshing but not cold. Swim platforms are anchored a short distance off the beaches. There is clean sand and grass perfect for picnics. A kiosk is available for coffee, cold drinks, snacks and ice creams. The dam is perfect for swimming with the ducks.

Was so nice to find this lake. A little beach area on both sides of the lake. Everyone was there swimming, paddle boarding. Great walking area over the bridge and to the other side of the lake. Also a tea house was there. Had a good variety of choices of food and snacks.

Beautiful lake. When we visited it started raining so could not finish the walk. I saw people enjoyong BBQ and swim in the lake. Great play area for kids too.

In your travels North and South up and down the Newell Hwy if your never stopped and taken the time to divert off the hwy to visit the Parks Observatory you are doing yourself a disservice. If your got kids it is especially worth while. Only a hand full of Km north of Parks and about 6km down the side road will get you there. Free entry with most of activities designed and aimed at the kids around 9-14yrs. Lots of photos and interesting information panels for the adults and hands on activities for the kids. The gift shop is A1 with good prices for a wide variety of interesting items to buy. The actual 'dish' is huge and most impressive and you will be amazed. It is still in operational use presently. There is a guided tour available but we didn't do that. This side divert will easily chew up a couple of hours and both you and the kids will appreciate getting out of the car far a very interesting tourist attraction. Got a Cafe there as well. Free and ample close by parking including long vehicles and free entry. Make sure you visit the outside two opposing dishes 70mts apart where if you face into one dish and whisper your partner can hear what you say facing into the other dish. All in all a great little place to visit that will consume no more than two hours of your time and break up your drive. Highly recommend.

Great 3D movie to inform the public about our planet & solar system. Great displays and of course a view of the dish. Plenty of gifts & merchandise with space in mind. A cafe available. Movie was a cost, but everything else was free to view.

Great place to look around to explore and learn some history. If you haven't seen the movie The Dish, I suggest you watch it and learn more about what it does. It's free to go in and check everything out. The whisper dishes out the front are great. You start whispering in them, and the other person over at the other didh can hear you as though you were standing beside them. Awesome place to visit

This is my 3rd time here and it just blows my mind. Lots to see, but unfortunately the cafe/ food is now closed, very disappointed as i would have liked a coffee while enjoy the structure rotate today. Must must must do everybody!!

Great stopover on the way to Dubbo! We saw the 3S experience which was only $16pp and we didnt even know Australia had a Observatory like this! Such a great experience

Nice little stop on the way through NSW. Interesting information center and GOOD doughnuts! Worth the stop if you are passing through or if you are in to space exploration and the moon landings!

The museum is cool, they have the universes baby picture. My brother is jealous and wants to also visit.

What a beautiful place. So serene, well thought out. Everything was in full bloom. Ducks were in there splendour. We even saw some ducklings Finished our afternoon off with a drink and snack from the Cafe.

A beautiful, tranquil experience! It is a must do attraction if you are visiting Cowra. I'm a local, and love taking my visitors and kids to the gardens. There's ducks and fish to feed, and lots of lizards to spot along the way. Highly recommended!

I love this place so much that I've bought a yearly ticket. I'm looking forward to seeing each season. It's a lovely drive from Canberra through Boorowa and great for my dogs. The staff are wonderful; so friendly and helpful. It's a pleasant overnight trip on a weekend.

This was a wonderful experience to walk around these beautiful manicured gardens. They took you to another world. Great service in the cafe with great food options and then a lovely gift shop and our dogs were welcomed to join us.

This is a lovely and serene garden that is well worth visiting. It is bigger than I expected, but not too big to be explored in 1-2 hours. You can also set up your picnic rug and spend the afternoon here. There is a cafe as well, up front.

Lovely and tranquil garden and not too busy. Good gift shop and cafe both of which are not over priced. Highly recommended.

If you love flowers this is the place for you. There is plenty of parking for cars & caravans, clean facilities, gift shop and cafe. The gardens are easy to walk around with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view.

It's the small tourist stop you do either on the way to Victoria or New South Wales It's sad to see the shoo all closed up and the statue looking a little worse for wear. Still a good stop to stretch our legs, however. You can buy farm-fresh apples from a shed about 200 meters away from the Dog in the Sydney direction. If you drive towards the Olivers you can also have a photo with the big koala

Had a little stroll in the dog walking area. My pup loved it, & he even wanted to get on the original tucker box for a photo op! But, he's a bit of an escape artist & there were other dogs around, a freeway nearby, & way too many people and vehicles! So that didn't happen! We got close though, & a quick snap or 3! Good to see some works in progress with the new site for the old dog 🐕 mapped out on a billboard.

🐶 The Dog on the Tuckerbox, Gundagai ​This is the famous Dog on the Tuckerbox Pioneer Monument, an iconic piece of Australian folklore and a major tourist attraction located near Gundagai, New South Wales. ​Key Features ​The Statue: A bronze statue of a loyal dog sitting atop a wooden box, which is a "tuckerbox" (an Australian term for a food container). The dog is looking upwards, away from the box. ​The Base: The statue sits on a stone pedestal with plaques dedicating the monument "To our Pioneers" and commemorating its unveiling by Prime Minister Joseph Lyons in 1932. ​Location: The monument is situated in a paved area, which includes a small water feature (visible in your photo), and is adjacent to a cafe and farm shop, creating a popular rest stop for travellers on the Hume Highway. ​The Story ​The statue is inspired by an old Australian folk poem, dating back to the 1850s, about a bullock driver's misfortunes. The final straw for the unlucky bullocky was finding his dog sitting on (or, in the original, fouling) his food box, or "tuckerbox," which was an essential item for pioneers and drovers. The well-known folk song, "Where the Dog Sits on the Tuckerbox (Five Miles from Gundagai)", further immortalised the story. ​It has become a symbol of the resilience, hardship, and unwavering spirit of Australia's early pioneers and bullock drivers, and the loyalty of their working dogs. ​It's one of those classic Aussie roadside stops—a bit of history, a bit of humour, and a great excuse to stretch your legs. Just don't let your own dog sit on your lunch! ​Would you like to know more about the poem or the bullockies it commemorates?

Have always wanted to go, I would say it’s 3.5 stars, I don’t know what we were expecting but my husband thought it would be bigger like this Koala that was also at the same spot? Westopped in Gundagai and then found dog on the tucker bog as we were leaving. Luckily there is two exits as we missed the 1st one. Lots of food places, not a lot of merchandise but it is currently about to be renovated. Friendly staff, it was good to see. There was also another good lookout on the other side of Gundagai that looked out over the whole town, worth the look if you are going through.

A nice spot to stop for a break from driving, the statue & fountain is as you’d expect.. good for a photo! I just think they should have water fountains for dogs. I saw a lot of dogs here so I’m surprised they didn’t.

Always a great stop, had to show my animal lover Canadian friends. Cafe attached currently closed for rebuild. Went to the healthy cafe next to fuel depot and bought a delightful healthy lunch.

Couple of the stores have changed here but the Oliver’s has good food + coffee along with a range of other local produce. There are charging stations behind - though I think they’re mainly tesla.

Great venue for an excursion with the family. Lots of parking on the street if the main carpark is full. It was very busy here so unfortunately we couldn’t try the cafe as it was fully booked and there were no tables. Take a gold coin with you as there’s a motor museum next door that requires a gold coin for entry.

I’m so sad I didn’t discover this beautiful place earlier! The dining atmosphere is amazing, the staff are super sweet, and the food is absolutely delicious. The best part is that you can actually watch the chocolate and licorice being made, and then buy the beautifully packaged products right in the shop. Simply perfect! I love this place so much—every souvenir was so tempting to take home. Both the products and meals are very reasonably priced. Such a fantastic tourist spot! 👍

The Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory is located in the old flour mill of Junee, New South Wales. Explore an Immersive World of Chocolate & Licorice Have a sneak peek of your beloved treats coming to life through the porthole windows, or take part in a guided tour of the factory floor, and learn how our products are made.witness the creation of organic licorice and chocolate products under the brand Green Grove Organics. For the more creativity souls, why not make your own giant chocolate freckle. Indulge in the Millroom Restaurant for breakfast or lunch, and you can’t go past trying their hot chocolates made with real melted Belgium styled chocolate! It’s the perfect day trip escape.

Fantastic information if you can do your. So worth it. More than just a factory, gift shop, whiskey distillery and a restaurant. Fantastic place to visit, meet up and have a great day. Then next door visit the museum of Cars,Mowers, Motor Bikes, plus more.

A fun experience for the kids (and us adults too) to watch the licorice being made. A nice looking on site cafe as well as a shop with lots of licorice and chocolate choices. A walk around the gorgeous outdoor gardens with plenty of seating and photo opportunities.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We had a lovely visit to the Junee Chocolate and Licorice Factory! The place has such a charming and welcoming ambience — perfect for enjoying their delicious treats. We tried the strawberry and chocolate milkshakes, and both were rich, creamy, and absolutely delightful. The gift shop downstairs is fantastic, offering a wide variety of chocolates and licorice to take home — perfect for souvenirs or gifts. I also loved that you can watch the factory in action through the viewing windows, which makes the visit even more interesting. Don’t miss the second-floor shop either — it’s full of kitchenware and Crocs shoes, a fun little bonus find! Overall, a great stop for families, chocolate lovers, and anyone passing through Junee.

I found the property and building very beautiful but I waited 45mins for an underwhelming hot chocolate.. being a place where chocolate was made, I expected a better hot chocolate. The place was busy so that could have been the reason….. I am in Wagga for a few weeks, so I look forward to revisiting before I leave to try the wood fired pizza and maybe give the hot chocolate another go. Hopefully it’ll come in the nice tall hot chocolate glass next time.

This place was awesome! I was able to see so many interesting things while visiting. Loved it!!

Very well set out gardens.with lots of picnic spots and BBQ, plus a small take away shop at the front. We worth the walk around with all the different areas set out like a native area, desert area, rain forest etc. Set out at least a 1/2 day to see it all. Jenny Divers

Well maintained gardens that's free entry and parking. There's different areas, eg kids playground, rainforest, zoo, cafe etc. There's a model railway but check times as it wasn't operating when i went during the weekday.

A gorgeous free zoo! You can pet the animals and hold the birds and feed the cows. Such a sweet and wonderful day out!

A lovely well-maintained garden. Very peaceful. Plenty of parking is available on-site.

In OK condition. It was disappointing that most plants were not labelled with their names and some gardens were full of weeds. However, there are many wonderful plants there, a zoo,, playgrounds and picnic facilities and a wonderful mini train to ride on on 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. A great place for families.

Beautiful gardens to sit and enjoy the sun . We didn't see any animals . I think it's too cold for them. At 8 degrees at 1130 am. My whinge for these gardens are. The toilet lights didn't work. If I had a child go in there, it would scare them it was pitch black ⚫️ in the toilets. Luckily, I had my phone for lighting. Big slip up wagga council. It's a safety issue. Great area for kids to play. A nice walk to stretch ypur legs.

Awesome place to visit this time. Colourful and vibrant. Walking two sides of the river with so many colours and the water sound is heart melting and great experience

My husband and I did this walk today with our baby in a carrier, it's a pretty easy walk, reasonably flat with some steps. It's a really great scenic walk, I'd highly recommend it for anyone visiting bright. Their is a rocky part to cross but it looks worse than it is, it was pretty easy to get across.

The Canyon Walk in Bright is a delightful riverside trail that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Following the Ovens River, this 3–5 km loop features lush forests, two suspension bridges, and remnants of 19th-century gold mining activity. It's an easy walk suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with options to shorten or lengthen the route as desired. Whether you're visiting in spring to see wildflowers or in autumn for vibrant foliage, the Canyon Walk is a must-do for anyone in Bright.​

Excellent loop walk close to town. Out one side of the canyon and back the other.

It was a bit difficult to understand where the start point was, so had to wander around a bit. But other than that, it's a really nice and easy walk to do, Stunning Canyon views and reminders of the Gold Rush.

It was such a beautiful walk , we visited at the end of April and the trees were changing colour , the air was crisp in the morning, There's two walks , one shorter than the other . Highly recommend this walk , very peaceful.

Quite a peacefull walk with a Gr8 Camping Ground on one side and the Ovens River . If u r heading up2 Myrtleford, Porepunkah or Bright l highly recommend this walk . On the Bright Shopping Centre side there is a Terrific Walking Track that l also recommend. Enjoy Folks

Easy walk from the car park. Only 700 meters. There are harder longer options available that are very scenic. It's good to see the progress of recovery after the 2009 fires, but will take many years for the trees to grow back to the same grandeur. A visit at night is highly recommended, where the falls and the paths are lit from the small 13kw hydro electric plant on site.

Magic short walk for the family up the Falls. Steep in sections, but a well kept track. Toilet facilities too. Nice and close to town for a lunch stop after the walk. Loads of options there. Also a great park for the kids too.

Always an amazing experience. I have been to the falls 4-5 times and it never fails to bring a smile on my face. If you can do a bit of hike you should go to the top of the fall as the experience there is really amazing and the views to love for. However if you are kids or don’t have much time then just a short walk to the viewing platform and you would love the fall.

Best waterfall we have been too! There is about 20 car spaces in the car park, my advice is go early otherwise you will be parking further down the road and walking more. Toilet on site and only about 2 minute walk on flat ground from car park to viewing platforms to see the waterfall. There are several other trails for those who want the extra adventure, we took one to the top of the waterfall, about 15min up and 15min down, take care on the muddy track and wear appropriate footwear. The sound, the views, the smell all just incredible, our 9yr old handled it very easy and we saw some elderly people also doing the hike to the top. If you have read this than you need to be in your car already and going :)

It's so beautiful here , the creek with its clear water running from the waterfall, the nature sounds it's a very peaceful place to visit . It is about a 45 min hike if you're going all the way to the top of the waterfall.

Beautiful waterfall, best scene from below but definitely worth the 800m-hike to the top of the falls for good views and fresh water. Get there before 11am to avoid crowds.

This place is absolutely stunning! With its majestic waterfalls and top-notch security, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy quality time with family and friends. @viajandoconmibandera

Absolutely love Healesville sanctuary! My kids and I always have the best time when we visit. The staff are lovely, animals are gorgeous, plenty of play areas and beautiful bush land. I love the peaceful feeling I get when I hear the river water run. The flight arena bird show is always fun but warning it can get quite toasty in the warmer weather as there’s little to no shade in this part. I absolutely adore the bird enclosure with the gorgeous black cockatoos ❤️ my favourite birds. The kids love all the play areas but their favourite is the sandpit with the dinosaur skeleton.

Fantastic experience. Bigger than I expected. Good to have talks at different locations. So happy I got to see a platypus, Tasmanian Devil family at feeding time and echidna. The koalas were active moving and eating so it was a perfect time to walk past. Spirits of the Sky show was awesome. The birds were so well trained out in the wild (no enclosure) and they performed for us. Loved the swoop to catch a fish in the water, crack open an emu egg and reveal of thanks signage. It was different seeing a wombat and kangaroos in an upturned position (playing dead). Wow, a tree kangaroo. A wonderful visit and beautiful sunshine to make it the amazing time I had. The map was really handy and the signages were great.

I love coming here, every time we return it’s always as enjoyable as the last. The habitats created for all the animals are beautiful replications of their homes in the wild. The wellbeing and happiness seems to be well taken care of in this zoo, the animals always seem very at ease no pacing or signs of distress. There’s something really serene and peaceful about this place, love having a chat with the staff too. Today was the first time we went near the end of the day, and it worked out quite well as we got to see the kangaroos having their evening feed, looked at the reptiles with not a single person in the the whole building too. Always a lovely experience.

A wonderful zoo will undoubtedly delight visitors. The extensive grounds offer the opportunity to get acquainted with a variety of wild animals, from platypuses to rare species of kangaroos. You can also see active snakes and turtles here, as well as visit the laboratory and observe many wild and rare birds. Additionally, visitors will be able to see dingoes, koalas, and much more. Visiting this remarkable zoo promises to be interesting for both children and adults.

We only had about 3 hours to spend and wish we had more. The exhibits were excellent. The animals had a lot of space and were also visible most of the time. The Tasmanian Devils were very active when we were there. We also got to see the platypus and attend the talk about them. I wish we had more time to hear more of the talks. The presenter was very knowledgeable and patient. The bird enclosures were also very nice with volunteers available to answer questions.

Me and my friends are all Zoo Victoria members, and we absolutely love animals! 🐾 Healesville Sanctuary is one of our favourite places to visit. We often come here whenever we have free time — it’s such a lovely and joyful place to walk around and spend time with friends and family. All the staff are always so nice and friendly. I especially love listening to the animal talks and watching the Spirits of the Sky bird show — it’s amazing every time! 🦅 We always leave feeling relaxed and happy after visiting. Highly recommend it to all animal lovers! 🌿💚

We walked around for about 3 hours seeing the animals and watching a cool birds of prey experience. There were lots of different kinds of parrots and water birds. I was so stoked to see some pelicans up close as id only ever seen them on tv. We didn’t get to hug a koala or hold a snake but I fell in love with the echidnas and the baby duckbilled platypus. Most of the animals were either hiding in the shade in the cool and i didnt blame them as we were melting ourselves. It got up to 25 or 26c at one stage. 40 years ago I visited this sanctuary when I was on a big international group camping trip kind of like a scout jamboree but it was called Rally Arura ( and was church based). It’s certainly changed a lot in the past 40 years. I’ll have to hunt out my old photos when I get home. Was it worth $119 AU for the two of us? Definitely.

Great for short one day trip. Nice for short trekking trips. Scenic view is all worth.

The Dandenong Ranges, located just outside of Melbourne, Australia, is a stunning destination known for its lush forests, charming villages, and vibrant gardens. Visitors often rave about the breathtaking scenery, with towering eucalyptus trees and scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. One of the highlights is the range of walking trails, which cater to all fitness levels, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. Popular spots like the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk and the tranquil Sherbrooke Forest are frequently mentioned in reviews. The quaint villages of Olinda and Sassafras are also beloved for their boutique shops, cozy cafes, and the famous chocolate shops, making them perfect for a leisurely day out. The vibrant local flora and fauna, especially during spring when the gardens are in full bloom, adds to the allure. Overall, the Dandenong Ranges is highly recommended for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation amid nature. Whether you're hiking, exploring gardens, or simply soaking in the tranquility, it's a place that leaves a lasting impression.

Beautiful scenery. Roads left in disrepair with large pot holes. Better to do road travel in NSW.

It’s a place full of magic!! Go early morning and returns before 5:30pm.. amazing place to be.. loved it

I really love the trails experience. So calm and nature loving experience

Possibly the best place in Melbourne. If you don’t visit the Dandenong‘s when you’re in Melbourne, you’re missing out on a spiritual experience. Going for a walk amongst those beautiful trees in that fresh air, with the incredible scenery cannot be beaten.

Very beautiful place

Had an amazing time yesterday at the puffing Billy steam train ride from Belgrave to Gembrook return It was a beautiful sunny day and the landscape and scenery was spectacular ..Almost like our train ride in Switzerland . The steam train was beautiful and it takes you back in time to the year 1900. I was a proud Victorian and was glad the puffing Billy stood the test of time The staff were all so pleasant and. Happy to be serving you . You could see that they love their job , especially our carriage attendant Vicky . We did this train ride when our daughter was 2. She is now 31. So it was a beautiful walk down memory lane .

Puffing Billy Railway – A Journey Through Time and Nature I recently had the opportunity to experience the Puffing Billy Railway, and it was truly a unique and memorable adventure. Travelling through the lush landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges on this historic steam train felt like stepping back in time, an experience that blends nostalgia, beauty, and a sense of connection with Victoria’s heritage. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the staff’s enthusiasm made the journey even more enjoyable. From the gentle rhythm of the train to the breathtaking scenery along the way, every moment was thoughtfully preserved and authentically Australian. It reminded me that sometimes, the best experiences are those that slow us down and let us appreciate history, nature, and the simple joy of the journey itself.

I had a wonderful time on the Puffing Billy steam train — such a unique and memorable experience! The ride was incredibly scenic, with beautiful views all along the way. The atmosphere is charming and nostalgic and you really feel like you're stepping back in time. The staff were friendly and made the journey even more enjoyable.

Took a ride on a chilly, rainy spring day, the first leg to Emerald was freezing, but the return trip was perfect, so we got to sit on the railing and really feel the wind in our faces. It’s fun for kids and adults who want to unleash their inner child, though don’t expect jaw-dropping scenery, mostly forest, some backyards, a tall wooden bridge, and locals waving as you pass. The real magic? The steam, the hissing, the smell of the old train. It’s pure nostalgia, an old-school steam train experience that’s more about the journey than the views. 🚂

Puffing Billy Railway is a unique Victorian tourist experience. (To get to Belgrave, we travelled by train from Southern Cross, transferred at Flinders Street Station and arrived fifty minutes prior to the departure of our booked train.) Booking on line is recommended, and it is an easy process. Upon arrival, one must line up at the ticket office to collect the paper ticket. This is needed to be clipped on the platform by the conductors prior to boarding the train. The Station Master, Guard, and conductors were rather perfunctory prior to departure from Belgrave. Due to late passengers, the train departed ten minutes late. We were not fussed by this, but were somewhat disappointed by the attitude of the latecomers. The PBR staff treated the offenders with patience. Good on them. The locomotive, carriages and infrastructure are all beautifully restored and obviously well maintained. The journey to Lakeside was spectacular. The views were wonderful. Listening to the loco work up the grades was a real treat. Terminating at the lovely Lakeside Station allowed one to take a look at the Garratt locomotive and its train. (This train was the earlier service and was about to return to Belgrave.) The steam crew were more than happy to chat about their roles on the footplate and the mechanical features of the loco. This was much appreciated. One then had time to wander through the Visitors Centre. The historical display is informative and well presented. Reading about the history of the rail line and the district was quite interesting. The cafeteria was incredibly busy, but after ordering our food, it arrived promptly. The food was tasty (a chicken focaccia and soup of the day), and obviously freshly made. The catering staff were great. Very efficient. A walk around the lake was a real treat. The Dandenongs are a beautiful part of Victoria. Many passengers took advantage of the long break prior to the train departing to return to Belgrave. Returning to the Lakeside platform, and taking the opportunity to checkout the NA loco, I was able to chat to the young fireman. He is a great PR rep for PBR. We were able to talk about the loco and firing techniques. The return journey to Belgrave again a wonderful experience. A highly recommended experience well worth the effort to visit.

Great night had. Enjoyable experience and definitely a must for anyone that loves trains and a bit of nostalgia. Toilet access at Belgrave was good, great communication and a really fun night for all ages

We recently held our wedding with the Puffing Billy Railway, chartering a train for our guests from Belgrave to Nobelius Siding (which was surprisingly affordable!) and hiring out the Nobelius Packing Sheds as our reception venue. On our wedding day, the staff went absolutely above and beyond in their service to us, with meal and drink service on board the train, and full catering with table service at the reception venue. The locomotive crew were even willing to move the train for better photos after its arrival at the station, and were willing to delay the return trip to Belgrave by 15-30 minutes when the reception ran late. It felt like the entire railway was there for us, and every one of our guests had nothing but positive things to say about the experience. During the planning process, the railway and staff were also very accommodating. They provided us with multiple inspections of both the venue and the dining carriages so that we could plan ahead, set up a taste testing date for the reception menu, worked with us to schedule a train that worked around their existing timetable, and allowed us access to the venue on the day before and after the wedding for bump in/out. Although there were sometimes some issues in communication which led to a headache or two, they allowed us to develop a thorough plan well in advance of the day. All in all, I'd highly recommend Puffing Billy as a venue for anyone looking for a way to make their wedding day a bit more unique. (Photos by "Had To Be You Weddings".)

We arrived at Maru around 2:00. There were lots of kangaroos. They must have been very full. We fed them but they didn't want to eat much. We saw a few koalas sleeping. Alpaca looked quite hungry. We also watched the sheep shearing show. Overall experience quite pleasant.

You can pay extra for animal experiences. We didnt opt for these so I can't speak much on what they are like. The animals were very active in their enclosures. However we couldnt see anything in the nocturnal enclosure. The kangaroos weren't all too interested in the feed and they mainly chilled in their refuge areas. There is a cafe and a gift shop. The mini golf was fun and pirate themed.

2025/10 Maru Koala and Animal Park The Maru Koala and Animal Park is a popular wildlife park located in Grantville, Victoria, on the way to Phillip Island. It offers visitors the chance to get close to some of Australia’s most iconic animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and emus. Visitors can hand-feed kangaroos, take photos with koalas, and learn about Australian wildlife through keeper talks and shows. The park also features a mini golf course and a café, making it a great stop for families and tourists exploring the region. Maru Koala and Animal Park focuses on wildlife conservation and education, helping visitors understand the importance of protecting Australia’s native animals and their habitats.

This place is incredible. Going in with the kids we didn’t have much expectations but just to see some koalas and may be feed them. But the place just surprised us. There’s loads of Koalas and kangaroos and you can feed any of them freely while touching them. Somme more reptiles and birds are available as well. Good facilities and the kids enjoyed the tour immensely.

Went after lunch on a weekday. The place was pleasant and animals looking good. No kookaburra but plenty of koalas! The two albino kangaroos were a sight to behold and the rest of the gang were very placid and don't mind people around. Excited to spot joeys. Managed to wait for the winged squirrel to come out of hiding. Last but not least, even though it was a bit run down, the mini golf was actually quite fun when playing competition!

Discover Maru Koala and Animal Park, a family-run wildlife haven in Grantville, just 90 minutes from Melbourne and en route to Phillip Island. Get hands-on with Australia’s icons—pat koalas, hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies (including rare albinos), and encounter dingoes, Tasmanian devils, wombats, and more. Join keeper talks, sheep shearing demos, and immersive experiences like dingo encounters, plus Pirate Pete’s mini-golf for family fun—perfect for wildlife lovers and budding adventurers!

Maru koala and animal park is a best place to see kolas and some wild animals. Especially albino kangaroos. Went on a long weekend, bit crowded but ticket counters were not busy. Staff was very helpful and explained everything.

What an amazing hidden gem! Moonlit Sanctuary is truly special, tucked away in the outback area yet offering so much to enjoy. From the warm and welcoming staff to the beautiful nature, pond and animals specially Koala and Kangaroos. It’s the perfect spot for quality family time, peaceful, clean, and full of charm. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing escape with loved ones! Specially Kids, they’ll love feeding Koala and Kangaroo.

A nice place to see many Australian native animals up close. They all seem very well cared for, and the park feels peaceful and pleasant to walk around. We caught a few of the keeper talks, which were interesting and educational. We spent about three hours here, including time for our elderly companion’s frequent toilet visits, lunch, and never felt rushed. The café food was delicious and reasonably priced. We bought our tickets a day before on Klook, which was slightly cheaper. We chose this park because it is not too big, just right for seniors.

We did the Behind the Scenes tour today and it was absolutely incredible! Callum was ah-maz-ing — kind, knowledgeable, and so passionate about the animals. They made the whole experience engaging and memorable from start to finish. The sanctuary itself is beautiful and clearly well cared for. My dad remembers bringing us here when we were kids, and now getting to visit again with my own son was such a special full-circle moment. It felt both nostalgic and completely fresh. Thank you, Moonlit Sanctuary and Callum, for a truly unforgettable experience!

An Unforgettable Experience at Moonlit Sanctuary, Melbourne During my visit to Moonlit Sanctuary, I had the opportunity to see Australia’s most iconic animals, koalas and kangaroos, up close, and it was truly a remarkable experience. The sanctuary offers a rare chance to connect with nature in a calm, respectful environment that highlights the importance of wildlife care and conservation. What stood out most was the genuine love and dedication the staff have for the animals. Their passion was evident in every interaction, from sharing insightful information to ensuring each animal’s well-being. The surroundings were beautifully maintained, creating a serene atmosphere that allowed visitors to appreciate the animals in their natural setting. It was more than just a visit; it was an experience that deepened my appreciation for Australia’s wildlife and the people committed to protecting it. True conservation begins with connection, and Moonlit Sanctuary embodies that beautifully.

My second visit to this incredible sanctuary was on a late Sunday morning. It was moderately crowded, but the short ticket counter queue cleared quickly. However, I highly recommend visiting during weekdays early morning to avoid the crowds. During peak times, the kangaroos and wallabies are less likely to approach you for food, as everyone is trying to feed them and they are probably full. It’s quite amusing to see people begging the kangaroos and wallabies to come and eat their food. 😂 Despite the crowds, this sanctuary still lives up to its name and is definitely one of the must-visit places in Melbourne. The koala experience is worth the extra money, and the staff are all incredibly friendly. ❤️ Visited on August 24, 2025, a Sunday.

Visited on a sunny Saturday afternoon. Sanctuary was very busy however had a lovely experience. Got to learn about the Australian wildlife and interact with the kangaroos/wallabies. Overall a terrific idea for someone to visit with kids and also those without. Spent about 3 hours overall.

This is a very nice sanctuary where you can get a koala experience (pic and petting no holding), a great one to one with Wallabies and Kangaroos and a chance to see dingos, birds and many other great once in a lifetime experiences! Definitely recommend!

Experiencing the history and grandeur of the renowned sporting arena was truly remarkable. The comprehensive tour provided an intimate look at the stadium's iconic features, including the hallowed grounds and player facilities. Engaging with the rich heritage and significant moments that have transpired within its walls was captivating. The informative insights into the venue's evolution and its place in sports history were enlightening. Overall, the visit left a lasting impression of admiration for the venue's significance.

Visiting the Melbourne Cricket Ground was truly a memorable experience. The stadium’s sheer size and historic significance immediately stood out—it’s not just a sporting venue, but a landmark filled with tradition and pride. Walking through the gates, I could feel the energy and legacy of countless legendary matches that have taken place here. The guided tour was well-organized and gave fascinating insights into the stadium’s history, the players, and the cultural importance of cricket in Australia. Standing in the stands and imagining the roar of over 100,000 fans was simply breathtaking. The MCG shop was also a highlight, offering a wide range of memorabilia and merchandise, perfect for any cricket lover. Overall, the visit was both exciting and inspiring. Whether you’re a cricket enthusiast, a sports fan, or just someone who appreciates history and culture, the MCG is an absolute must-visit in Melbourne

Visited the MCG for the AC/DC concert, and it was an unforgettable experience! The energy, the sound quality, and the atmosphere were absolutely electric. The stadium was well-organised, easy to navigate, and the vibe was just incredible. A perfect venue for a legendary show! ⚡🎸

My daughter and I, visiting from England, had a great time on the tour of the MCG. Expertly guided by club member Anne, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience on the eve of the AFL Grand Final. As we anticipated, the changing rooms and Long Room were out of bounds so close to the big event, but these minor disappointments were soon forgotten as the rest of the tour was so informative and inspiring. Should you have the opportunity to also visit the adjoining museum you must do so, as this is a phenomenal experience. Many thanks to Bill, the very helpful volunteer who entertained me here. A real highlight of our trip to the city.

This is the second largest cricket ground. We were welcome to visit the cricket ground. Each and everything of the auditorium was clearly presented to us. We saw the cricketers landing area , their changing rooms , Physio therapy rooms , resting rooms . The ground was being maintained. We also saw the place where the speakers sit , the management sitting area cafeteria and so on . The best part is the museum. Very informative. Must visit whole you are at Australia don’t miss it.

Fantastic venue for AC DC's return to Melbourne in many years. Staff onsite were great to help and answer questions. Sure it's a blast for a match there as well!

Purchased a Tour and Australian Sports Museum Ticket. Best buy! Tour was fantastic and the museum has been well set out. Highly recommend both but if you're not a museum fan at least do the MCG Tour.

A bit like sealife we were underwhelmed. Im not sure Melbourne Zoo lives up to its expectations of a world class Zoo. It had so much potential. Now we are spoilt!! San Diego Zoo for example, and even Singapore. Personally I preferred Perth Zoo. I think the big thing for us was what appeared to be the lack of animals. Yes I know they could be sleeping but it felt like there was mostly only one of everything and you had buckleys chance seeing it. Funny enough you actually go to a zoo to see animals. Some of the enclosures felt small and not really good enough. There were also no shows like most other zoos, normally a daily programme. Also a lot of sections were closed either for a private function (not acceptable) or i don't know what. As with every entertainment event Food and Beverages are always a rip off but the quality, variety and costs here were terrible, again compared to other zoos. To be totally honest for the cost it's not really worth it. Fantastic for tiny kids otherwise forget it.

Had a really great time at Melbourne Zoo, the weather was a little crazy so not all the animals were out but it was still okay. the meerkats are so adorable, they are definitely used to people. Few food places within the zoo out didn’t get the opportunity to eat at them. Found a couple of gift shops with a huge range of memorabilia. You get to walk inside a cage with lemurs in it which was really cool. zoo is open from 9am onwards. I suggest bringing an umbrella because the ones in the gift shop are $40. There is also a beautiful Japanese garden and a koi fish pond. Great function rooms.

we spent 3 hours here (skipped a handful of exhibits). great zoo to visit. super easy to navigate, great variety of animals. animals look well taken care of, with a lot of thought and effort put into their habitats and enrichment. lots of education for visitors. appreciate all the conservation efforts and information as well. loved this zoo and highly recommend it.

Melbourne Zoo is an amazing place to spend a day. The grounds are beautifully kept, and the habitats feel natural and spacious, giving you the sense that the animals are truly cared for. Don't expect to see all the animals. Some of them are sleeping or just hiding from the public. Not all of us like cameras and lots of attention. Hahaha 😁 There’s a fantastic variety of wildlife — from lions and gorillas to playful lemurs and the always-fascinating butterfly house. It’s also very family-friendly, with plenty of activities and areas for kids to learn and explore.

We had a fantastic day out! The zoo was huge and had so many animals to see. The food was yummy and prices were super affordable. Only bummer was the butterfly garden was closed when we visited. Would definitely come back, there's just so much to see and enjoy!

Had a wonderful visit to the zoo to see the new baby giraffe. We are members and love visiting the zoo as a family. The staff are always friendly and knowledgeable. Loved the butterfly house but was disappointed at the Asian tourists trying to touch the butterflies. There really needs to be an attendant in the butterfly house the whole time because even after pointing to signs not to touch these people were touching. Made my heart sad for the little butterflies.

visited the Melbourne Zoo on a Friday and was genuinely impressed. It’s hands down one of the best zoos I’ve ever been to. The variety of animals is excellent, and what really stood out to me was the thoughtful, intelligent design of the enclosures. They allow you to get remarkably close to the animals — much closer than in many other zoos — without ever compromising the animals’ comfort or safety. While the ticket price is on the higher side, I found it absolutely worth it once I was inside. You can really tell that a lot of care and effort goes into making this place special — both for visitors and for the animals. Highly recommended!

It has been years since I was last at the Shrine and I cannot remember it looking so well kept and iconic. This area is such a wonderful part of Melbourne to walk around and to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Australia. The trees around the Shrine are dedicated to various Battalions and units throughout the ADF history. Thank you so much to everyone involved in the maintenance of one of Australia's most sacred areas.

A Profoundly Moving and Beautiful Experience The Shrine of Remembrance is one of the most peaceful and powerful places in Melbourne. The architecture is stunning, the views of the city from the balcony are breathtaking, and the exhibitions inside are informative and emotionally touching. It’s not just a monument, it’s a tribute to history, sacrifice, and remembrance. The eternal flame, the sanctuary, and the hourly Ray of Light ceremony were deeply moving. Highly recommend visiting, whether you’re a local or a tourist. It’s a perfect place to reflect, learn, and pay respects. Free entry and beautifully maintained grounds make it even more worthwhile.

The Shrine of Remembrance is far more than just a monument, it is a moving experience and one of Melbourne's most important landmarks. Visitors should be sure to explore the Galleries of Remembrance beneath the structure. These galleries house exhibitions featuring artifacts, personal stories, and interactive displays. The experience is both educational and emotional. A climb to the Balcony is highly recommended, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline.

A beautiful and peaceful place that I often visit. The architecture is impressive, and the view from the top gives a great look over the Melbourne skyline. The lush gardens around it add to the serene atmosphere. It’s a war memorial built to honour all Australians who have served and continue to serve in wars and peacekeeping missions. There’s also a museum inside with interesting displays and personal stories. It’s a place where you could sit for hours, switch off, and reflect. Definitely worth a visit.

It is an amazing place to visit, to learn the history of war. You’d better allow 3 hours to visit the place. There are street parking available that peak hours $4/ hour and off-peak $2/ hour.

I were surprised there is no charge for visiting Shrine of Remembrance. Donations are accepted. Great place to visit and learn about Australian military involvement around the world 🌎 The architecture is impressive and the view of the city is breathtaking. Thank you all who sacrifice to keep us safe. Peace be on earth 🌎 🙏

The place is truly grand and beautiful, absolutely magnificent. If you visit Melbourne, this is definitely a must-see. Underneath the structure, there’s a museum that you can visit for free.

We really enjoyed our visit to Melbourne Skydeck! The 360° views of the city were absolutely stunning and gave us a whole new perspective of Melbourne. Definitely worth a visit if you want to see the city from above.

Our visit to Melbourne Skydeck was a truly memorable experience. It’s one of the best spots in the city to enjoy a panoramic view of Melbourne from high above. The observation deck gives a 360-degree view, allowing you to take in the skyline, river, and iconic landmarks all at once. Watching the sunset from the top was magical — the colors in the sky changed beautifully, making it perfect for photos. Many people also recommend the sunrise view for a peaceful start to the day. The place is very family-friendly, and our kids were excited to spot famous buildings and watch the trams below. The interactive displays made the experience more fun for them. We tried some food and drinks from the café; although the prices were a bit expensive, we really enjoyed the mocktails, which were refreshing and tasty. If you’re visiting Melbourne, this is a must-see attraction — especially for first-time visitors who want to see the city from above. A short visit can give you a great glimpse of the entire city. Overall, it’s a wonderful experience for both kids and adults.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Eureka Skydeck – Incredible Views of Melbourne! A fantastic experience and definitely one of the best viewpoints in Melbourne. The 360° views are stunning — you can see the entire city, the coastline, and all the way out to the mountains on a clear day. The space is well-organised, staff are friendly, and everything feels safe and smooth. The Edge Experience adds a fun little thrill if you like something extra! Great for families, couples, or anyone visiting Melbourne. Highly recommend going around sunset for those magic colours over the skyline. 🌇✨

Melbourne Skydeck was such an awesome experience! The views from the top were absolutely stunning — you can see the entire city skyline. The Edge experience was super cool and definitely worth trying — it’s a fun mix of thrill and amazing views. Everything was well-organized, and the staff made it even better. A must-do when visiting Melbourne!

My 1st stop in Melbourne was here! I mean there is no other place with these views. Definitely a must for sunset, or just night views. You can get drinks and snacks too.

Very good value if you buy the whole package online. The 3D simulator is very good and the views from the top excellent.. and there's the highest bar in Australia at the top.

I wouldn't recommend to get the edge ticket as you can see the view just before it without paying anything. I definitely recommend theater experience! Worth every penny!

Very below average tram stop to catch trams

Nice station.

Nice

Koala Conservation Reserve provides a wealth of interesting information about koalas. The koalas live in very natural environments, mostly sleeping high up in the trees. Our group was very lucky to spot one resting on the timber, and we enjoyed a wonderful show featuring this super cute koala!

Visited yesterday and had a wonderful time! The staff were incredibly kind and even took the time to point out the koalas to us. It was heartwarming to see both the staff and volunteers so passionate about what they do. Unfortunately, we came a notice about a missing koala, which was really sad to hear but we were glad to see that many dedicated volunteers were out searching high and low for it…Hope that the lovely koala is found safe and sound! Highly recommend to visit!

Bushland Escape / Koala Conservation Reserve This reserve offers a fantastic glimpse into Australian wildlife. We saw koalas on the two elevated treetop boardwalks which wind through the eucalyptus forest. The koalas were generally still—moving a paw slightly, then going right back to sleep—but it was wonderful to see them in their natural habitat. Beyond the main koala viewing area, the rest of the trails are natural bushland, perfect for spotting more active animals like wallabies, echidnas, and various native birds. A fun fact for wildlife enthusiasts: if you're very lucky (or perhaps unlucky!), you might spot a Copperhead snake. They are endemic to Phillip Island and are venomous, but they are very shy and generally avoid people.

If you prefer a natural environment to see the wild animals, this is the place to go. No staff are there to control the Koala, so you need to pay 100% attention to spot them. Not too crowded compared to other zoo. Easy access with lots of free parking.

The Koala Conservation Reserve is an amazing place to get up close with Australia’s iconic koalas! The walking trails are peaceful and well-maintained, allowing you to observe these adorable creatures in a natural, safe environment. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, sharing interesting facts about koalas and their habitat. It’s both educational and heartwarming — a must-visit for wildlife lovers and families alike!

Saw lots of koalas in amore natural setting than many wildlife parks. We also saw wallabies and lots of birds. Lovely way to while away a couple of hours.

What a wonderful experience. The koalas were way cuter and fascinating than I had imagined. Saw an echidna too. It takes a while to get used to finding koalas up in the trees, so a ranger kept little boards pointing to where they were. Wish there were fewer humans too. Noisy.

A super cute experience I would highly recommend all of friends to come to a visit to see the little penguin. We got the chance to stay in the experience ticket which cost more however I will say that’s really deserved because you really can see the penguin came back to the home. Also was the experience ticket you have your own bridge which you can see the penguin get back home to avoid the general tickets stand crowded.

Incredible experience, over 1000 penguins returning home every evening. We paid extra for premium plus seating and the penguins were walking right up to us. We went in June and Penguins arrived at 5:50pm. The rain held off just long enough for us to wait about an hour and half. Tip bring gloves, scarfs, raincoat and thermos in winter. It still gets very cold and windy by the water. I might add there’s no photos allowed past sunset but we got lucky and got to see this guy come back just before sunset.

We heard so much about this experience. We could not wait to see the penguins. We decided to go on a tour and the last stop in the tour was the penguin parade. It far exceeded our expectations. However, we should’ve purchased the VIP tickets for a better view. Also, I suggest having a puffer hat and a scarf because it was cold! I really loved the gift shop because there were different types of gifts, depending upon people’s preferences and multiple communities were represented too. I got the cutest tea towel and A-to-Z animals book for my baby.

Strongly recommend getting the penguin premium or plus. The viewing points are so much better. It’s pricey but totally worth it! What a wonderful visit!

Great experience at the Penguin Parade. Recommend shelling out for the Penguin Plus if you can. Bring a jacket and be prepared for it to be busy. But very well organised and clear instructions from friendly staff. Enjoyed the talk before to learn more about these amazing animals.

Our Go West tour was specifically for my wife and I to see the Penguins in their habitat and to watch the Parade. We were able take video and pictures along the boardwalk by the ocean. The boardwalk was safe for my wife to walk and we definitely enjoyed seeing the penguins; I mention this because it shows how important safety is to this organization for folks who come to visit especially if they are physically disabled or families with buggies. And seeing homes made for the little penguins and the well kept natural homes for them was amazing. When it was time to go to the visitors center we enjoyed an early dinner. May I say that with the number of guests eating at the restaurant the quality and plating of each dish we ordered was delicious and well presented. I observed your restaurant manager, Heni, take the time to look for guests whose food had been made but not picked up because they were sitting where the buzzers didn’t reach them. In all my time I’ve never seen that level of customer service before. We so enjoyed our overall experience of the penguin parade even with the rain and earlier then expected closure due to safety concerns with thunder and lightning. In addition, I am writing to let you know what an amazing group of people you have working at the Phillip Island Nature Parks. Every person we came in contact with was kind, helpful, and wonderful. Stephanie and others assisted my wife who needed the buggy down to and from the viewing platform as walking is strenuous for her; your staff assisted and made sure she had a place to view the penguin's waddling to their homes. On my walk back to the visitor center as my wife was on the buggy one of your orange vested staff shared information about the bandicoots and the story of their reemergence on the island (I’m so sorry I didn’t get your name, you were knowledgeable and friendly). And Steven, thank you for taking the time to speak with me about some of what I wrote here. Thank you all for your efforts and love for Phillip Island Nature Parks flora and fauna.

First of all, large parking area! Arrived quite early so there was ample time to go through the merchandise and showcases without the crowd. We sat at the general viewing right by the inner corner to have better viewing. Most of the penguins will arrive near the penguins plus area- when I return with my family, I would pay extra to get penguin plus experience. The penguins are quite far away to see from the general stand but later you get to see them climb up the trek in the deck. You'll see the chick's waiting on their parents which was so cute. It gets very cold so wear closed shoes/warm clothes and bring a towel/hot drinks/ hotpacks. Unfortunately some of the tourists did not comply to the rules and kept taking photos which made the penguins startled. I hope there will be a stricter rule regarding this.

This is undoubtedly a place steeped in mystique, definitely worth a visit. It reveals a story that took place in 1900, when a group of children from a boarding school were visiting this mountain. Four girls decided to explore the rock on their own. One of them got scared and returned to the other children. Three girls continued on their way, soon joined by their maths teacher. Eventually, they went missing. One girl was found shortly after, but she couldn't explain what had happened. After the investigation begins, a series of tragic incidents and suicides occur! It’s chilling! Visiting the mountain can be challenging for people with disabilities. However, they can still feel the full power of this place, the power of this rock, from below! Before the climb to the rock, there is a museum dedicated to this story. This place truly evokes a certain sense of fear, especially if you learn about the history before starting the ascent.

Perfect spot for a relaxing full-day escape! Loved spending the whole day here — the flat-rate parking makes it super convenient, no need to worry about time. There are plenty of picnic areas with great shade and clean facilities. The walking and hiking trails are beautiful and peaceful, surrounded by nature and fresh air. Perfect place to unwind, have lunch with friends, or just enjoy a quiet solo day outdoors. Highly recommend bringing a picnic mat and snacks!

Hanging Rock is a striking geological formation located near Woodend, about an hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne, Victoria. Known for its mysterious rock formations and panoramic views, this ancient volcanic outcrop is a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and wildlife spotting. Made famous by the novel and film Picnic at Hanging Rock, the site holds cultural and historical significance and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local legend. A must-visit for nature lovers and day-trippers from Melbourne.

Magical! We were lucky to do it when it was a low traffic day. I got no other tourists in my photos. We didn't get held up by slow walkers it was a beautiful 20° day clear sky sun out. Magical. I suggest taking a small picnic lunch up and having it at the top. Beautiful! Oh and make sure you at least go on the stairs track. That's where the magic is!

Great place for a short family hike. Takes 20 min to reach the top. Good facilities for a picnic with BBQ. Cost 15$ for car access.

An absolute gorgeous place to go for a weekend hike, complete with a fantastic cafe for a bite afterwards. Worth avoiding hot days though, climbing the may be challenging for some people.

Nice place to visit with family if you would like to have a short walk with nice landscape view. However, car entry ticket price is $15 which seems to be bit overprice compared to what park has to offer. Its one time go place though...

Lovely scenery, but activities can be limited if you are not doing tree surfing. We had a great picnic, blessed with beautiful weather, played with tube slide, hedge maze and lovely walk in the area. Nonetheless, there could have been more activities provided for families who are not doing tree surfing, especially at entrance ticket prices like these for a family which is quite steep. Overall, it was a good experience mainly due to the weather.

We had an absolute ball at Enchanted Adventure on the Mornington Peninsula! The mazes were creative and fun to explore, and the tube slides were a highlight – fast, exciting and perfect for all ages. The gardens are beautifully kept, offering plenty of fresh air and a wonderful chance to enjoy nature at its best. It’s a fantastic day out for families or groups looking for something different. Do note that tree surfing and zip lines are only available on weekends, so plan accordingly. With so much to do and see, it’s easy to spend hours here. A truly memorable experience and one we’d happily return to again. Highly recommended for a fun and active outdoor adventure!

Cute place to spend half a day. We went on a weekday in June and it was pretty deserted. We had the tube slides completely to ourselves for half an hour in the morning. The mazes and gardens were fun to walk through. We definitely took our sweet time, and it still only took an hour, so believe it when people say that this isn’t more than a half-day excursion. It was only with the Grand aerial obstacle course that we stretched it out to five hours at the park. The obstacle course was fun, though. Very well run, there are five paths to follow so no one path ever feels crowded or jammed. Each path ends with a zip line, with the fourth and fifth being the longest, and the fifth being the prettiest. You go at your own pace and as long as you finish before two hours, you can do the Tarzan swing and maybe the rock wall at the end. They’re pretty strict about the two hours even when the park is completely empty. We didn’t know about the two hour cut off, so they squeezed in the Tarzan swing for us anyway as we were right at the two hour mark.

Enchanted adventure is next to Arthur’s park nearby Rye. It was a good one. First i thought ticket fee(adult: $40, kid: $30) was expensive. Inside first part was simple playground.but i realized there were much more inside such as epic tube slide, the tree surfing and the Sky Scramble areas. Administration didnt say anything about these. It was a big fun anyway. You wont be upset. I am sure you will be happy to be there.

Lots to see and do. All the staff had a great attitude. The grounds are large and you will need lots of energy to do tree surfing and explore all the grounds. Hopefully the tube slides get a pulley system so we don't have to drag tubes up the hill. The new hedge maze needs to be a bit higher as I could see over the top.

What an amazing time we had. The gardens were beautiful with autumn leaves. My kid loved running around the mazes, climbing up the tree houses and the slides. So many activities to keep them occupied. We spent about 3 hours there and my son didn't want to leave. The park is taken care of very well. Would definitely come back and also recommend parents to bring their kids here. Pack a little picnic!

Fantastic park which is so well maintained The gardens are beautiful and manicured, the activities are great for a good range of ages. We didn't do the tree climbing activities but the general admission included so many other activities. The skytree climbing frame is an excellent way for kids to explore and practice their climbing. Please note that the skytree climbing is limited for children under 135cm and strictly no adults are allowed on the structures. Really great day out and would love to come back for another visit

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely the Best Zoo I’ve Ever Been To! Werribee Open Range Zoo is truly magical! From the friendly and welcoming staff to the spacious animal enclosures and spotless grounds, everything about this place is exceptional. The new state-of-the-art elephant enclosure is incredible — it’s even larger than all of Melbourne Zoo put together and that’s just one section of the park! We did the Giraffe Animal Experience, which turned out to be so much more than just a tour. We hopped on one of the safari buses and were taken right into the open plains, surrounded by incredible animals roaming freely — seeing the rhino family up close was an unforgettable highlight. The behind-the-scenes giraffe experience was amazing too. We got to feed the giraffes, explore their enclosure, and learn so much about them. Our guide, JESSE was absolutely fantastic! His passion for the animals, knowledge, and fun personality made the whole experience come alive. You can tell he truly loves what he does, and it made our visit extra special. My husband and I were lucky it was raining so it was just us 2 on the tour . The zoo’s wide-open spaces make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to Africa — it’s breathtaking how much room the animals have to roam. If you’re visiting the Melbourne area, Werribee Zoo is an absolute must-see. It was the highlight of our trip, and I can’t recommend it enough!

Had a wonderful time at Werribee Open Range Zoo! The safari-style setup makes it feel like a real African adventure. The animals looked healthy and relaxed, especially the hippos by the water. Great place to visit on a weekday—less crowded and easy to explore. Perfect for families and nature lovers. #genastar

So good to see how great this place has grown and improved over the years. The new elephant 🐘 enclosure is amazing 👏 the safari bus tour is a good way to see the animals in their natural habitat and be free to roam the open spaces. I would highly recommend this ad a great day outdoors for the whole family.

We love visiting Werribee Open Range Zoo! It has many animals, and it’s a fun, exciting day for the whole family. They’ve opened the new Elephant Trail, a 21-hectare, state-of-the-art space for the elephants to roam, with beautiful, well-designed environments. We enjoy going there, and the kids love it too! It’s a day full of adventure, learning, and fun. Highly recommend! 🐘🦒🦓

Paid $55 for the entrance ticket and an additional $60 for the Deluxe Safari, totally worth it! The deluxe safari gets you much closer to the animals, and the guide gives detailed explanations along the way. They stop for photos too, which is nice. We accidentally walked past the deluxe tour waiting point (it’s just next to the normal safari area along the elephant trail 😂), so just note, the normal safari cars are giraffe-painted, while the private/deluxe ones are zebra-painted. Easier to spot! Our guide, Daniel, was awesome, super knowledgeable and engaging. He even showed us animal items like fur, horns, and skeletons, which made it extra interesting. The small group size also meant he could spend more time explaining things to everyone. The only downside is the limited range of animals on the safari itself, mainly rhinos, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and camels roaming freely. You’ll also see bisons, Mongolian horses, and (I think) gazelles from a distance behind fences. Would’ve been nice to see elephants or hippos too, but it makes sense since the vehicles aren’t caged like in other safaris around the world. That said, you can still see elephants, lions, and more by walking around the zoo afterwards, so it’s not a dealbreaker. Another plus, the zoo has a baby feeding and diaper changing room, super clean and even has toys to keep toddlers occupied while you clean up. Overall, a great experience! Would definitely recommend the deluxe safari for a more personal and educational tour. 🦒🦏🦓

Loved it. Gorgeous surrounds. Fabulous sculptures and murals. Lots of activities for the kids. Beautiful native flowers. Fairywrens galore & of course the wild animals. Sad to hear Kalinda the Cheetah had passed, as had their wild dogs but the elephants are thriving in their new enclosure.

The open Zoo is awesome. I went on a school holiday so free for the kids. That was wonderful. No words to explain. We have two safari one is free with the entry ticket and the premium costs dollar fifty each. Our van went very near to the animals while the free safari was near too but goes only on road. Don’t wait to visit the zoo. I am delighted to post the naughty lions of the zoo.

Visited Peninsula Hot Springs and had an unforgettable experience. The setting is absolutely beautiful — surrounded by nature, birds, and gentle steam rising from the pools. Each hot spring has its own character, from quiet cave-style baths to hilltop pools with panoramic views of the peninsula. The temperature variety makes it easy to find your perfect spot to relax. The entire place is clean, peaceful, and thoughtfully designed to help you slow down and unwind. The staff were friendly and professional, explaining everything clearly at check-in. I especially loved the hilltop pool at sunrise, where you can soak while watching the sky change color — truly magical. There’s also a café serving healthy food and smoothies, which makes the experience feel complete. Whether you come solo, with friends, or as a couple, it’s the perfect escape from the city — pure relaxation in nature.

We were 3 friends celebrating a 50th birthday. The staff were kind, efficient and went above and beyond to make us feel special. The Eco-Lodge rooms we booked were amazing. I could not fault anything. Clean design, quality products and the calmness and relaxation that middle-aged busy and tired moms long for! The dinner was delicious, the wine was great, and a hot beverage to take away an unexpected treat. We did the Fire and Ice Wellness Activity, and the amazing Emily helped us feel safe, calm and grounded during the ice-bath. We were initially apprehensive taking part, but it turned out to be an amazing experience. We learned so much from this 45 minute experience and would actually do it again! Fiona at the check-in desk is a great, and it felt as if we have known her for years. I want to note that the security and management of this massive facility is really good. Staff members are visible, easy to communicate with, and well trained. They seem to all enjoy what they are doing. At night, security was visible and good, asking if we needed help or had any questions. Our spa treatment with Ms Add and her 2 colleagues was exceptional. The staff are clearly well trained and professional, kind, and good at what they do.

We visited Peninsula Hot Springs ♨️ in the late evening with family, and it was such a relaxing experience. Though a bit crowded, the atmosphere was calm and enjoyable. The place is very kids-friendly, with pools of different temperatures perfect for all ages. The hilltop pool was the highlight offering a stunning panoramic view, especially during sunset. The warm water and cool evening air made it unforgettable. Despite the crowd, it was worth it and a great family experience overall.

It was well worth the long drive coming here. The Peninsula Hot Springs is a great location for a family getaway and relaxation is guaranteed. There's plenty of parking and the facilities for changing and showering are very clean. There's lockers and towels available for a fee as well, should you need those. You're given a robe to use and I'm glad I brought thongs for my feet as it made moving around much easier. It's much larger than I had imagined. There were so many pools to choose from at various locations. I tried the 30° pool as well as the 40° pool and both were excellent. There's a sauna and even a hammam. It was a cold night so I wasn't brave enough to try the ice cave or the ice pool. There's also spa and wellness packages but I will try that next time. The location is gorgeous and with opening and closing times so accommodating, you can watch the sun set, as we did, while you're enjoying the view of the trees and listening to natural wildlife sounds. Tickets for us were $55 dollars each so it's not overly expensive but it's still something a family might want to plan for. It was definitely a fantastic experience and I do recommend this place for families looking for some rest and relaxation.

Sorely disappointed as my partner and I were expecting various heated metal coils fashioned in an artistic way upon the hill ("hot springs"). I'd been a fan of the spring ever since I was a wee bairn. So malleable and applicable to many situations. My very first invention in fact was shoes with springs on the bottom of them so you can jump anywhere you please, in style. So being a lifelong fan of the spring you can imagine my disappointment when we stumbled across about 50 hot baths! Lucky I always bring extra springs with me wherever I go. The baths were indeed pleasant to sit in. I chose to free ball (towel wise) and walk around with no towels or robes weighing me down. The benefits of this were that I could run from pool to pool in a speedy manner. Not good for prying eyes though. These double ds have a mind of their own without a sports bra. My Noel was a bit confused about the whole situation and I walked out from the change rooms to find him swimming in the duck pond. I think he enjoyed it though and the moss seemed to make his skin extra smooth. Lovely place

I had an incredible experience at the Hot Springs! We opted for the Dine & Bath package, and it was absolutely worth it. I’d visited before for general bathing, but this took it to a whole new level. The food was delicious, and the service was exceptional throughout our visit. One of the highlights was spending time in the Spa Dreaming Centre — it was incredibly calming and relaxing. We also enjoyed the general bathing area, which was just as lovely. The entire property is serene and beautifully maintained, with immaculate gardens that added to the peaceful atmosphere. Truly, it felt like a little slice of heaven. I look forward to returning again

My husband and I went here for a day visit. Firstly the lady's at reception are super welcoming and very friendly. There are plenty of pool options, you will have to get comfortable with the idea of bathing with strangers 😂 because it is super busy, but once you move past that it is really quite lovely. Even the walk around to the different pools is lovely. They offer lots of options to relax, hammocks, bean bag style chairs, benches and big domes you can go into to lay down. The hill top pool was definitely a highlight, offering a 360° view of the surrounding hills. But a personal favourite was the cave pool. I will definitely be coming back on my next Melbourne trip!

5/4/25 We had an absolutely fantastic night on the Blues Train! We had had to wait for 5 years for the experience as we had previously booked in 2020..... Anyway, finally we managed to get 7 of us together and it was fabulous! We started with the meal. I feel the directions could have been clearer, but there was enough food when I got there (larger men in our party would have preferred seconds/larger portions). The meal was tasty. We had beef, chicken, carrots, mashed potato, salad, a bread roll, and coleslaw. Dessert (lemon tart) was too sweet and the only option, which was disappointing. The music in each carriage was great. My order of favourites would be B, A, D, C but others in our group had different favourites. Something for everyone. Anna Scionti amazed us all with her cigar box guitar skills 👌 👏 🎸 It would have been nice to know about the drink package options beforehand, to have been able to choose ahead rather than work it out in the queue, but we managed! We're so glad the Blues Train survived after 2020! P.S. nice to have security in each carriage, especially when a few people got a bit tipsy! There wasn't any trouble, just merriment, but nice to have their presence for 'just in case'!

My friend and I flew from Newcastle to share the adventures of the Blues Train.. We had the most amazing time.. The staff were super friendly, the Blues artists were fun and entertaining and the added experience of the train was awesome. I havn't stopped smiling.. Highly recommend 🌞

We did the lunch show & we can’t wait to go again. The train ride was amazing, the musicians were very talented & played a variety of blues. The buffet food was very tasty and nearly all options were gluten free. The catering staff and the train staff were so friendly & helpful, even on a 35.deg day. Make sure you book accommodation early, took us a while to find something.

Had such a great time. I loved the cross section and varied music even though it was all blues. The carriages are not over crowded ( the perfect amount ) I would recommend this to anyone who has a love of music especially Blues

Had an absolute blast. The music was great , the atmosphere was amazing and we had a great time. I do think there need to be better food options though. The snack box was tasty but not really adequate for the length of time on the train , the free flowing drinks and as the event starts so early it makes it difficult to eat dinner beforehand. Incorporating some kind of hot food e.g sliders, pies etc at the halfway point (Drysdale) would make it an even better experience. Thanks Blues Train for responding. I do believe that you need to look at recent reviews and take the comments re the food "On Board". It is not easy to eat dinner that early and most of the recent reviews that I have read have mentioned the inadequacy of the food. I think you need to meet the expectations of your clients and provide better food options. If you did it would elevate the experience from 4 Star to 5 Star.

The experience of traveling the train and entertainment was fantastic. How ever … I am so glad I had a late lunch as the food provided was revolting and un eatable. Given a grazing box with warm cheese & dip. Deli meat was off, it went in the bin. Drinks limited only providing one per stop. Where as there website reflected only allowed three at a time . But would only give you one drink ! Very disappointed with food and drink provided.

Boy, did this give me the blues. I went on this ten years ago and it was amazing — but the change in structure has turned it into an absolute mess. At each stop, you’re only allowed to get a drink for yourself — no one else in your group — and there are only four people physically serving the entire train. Everyone in your group has to queue for their own drink, including any elderly parents you’ve brought along. This also means you have to choose between going to the toilet, queuing for a drink, or queuing to save a seat on the carriage. You can’t do all three, and either way, you’ll spend the entire 30-minute stop in a queue. There are a maximum of four toilets per stop serving the entire train. No one explained the drinks rules in advance or how we would move between carriages, so everyone was confused and frustrated right from the start. Calling it a shambles doesn’t do it justice. We missed out on drinks, people were peeing in the bushes, and we couldn’t sit with our group on the carriage because there’s no structure to the seating arrangements. The staff were rude — I actually had to have a word with one of them after they referred to me as “that woman” for being in the way. The whole process completely undermined what would otherwise be a great musical experience. What a shame — this used to be brilliant.

Visited Geelong Eastern Beach area on our way back from Botanical Garden. Beach has cafe, washroom, green area to sit, Giant Wheel and pool area for adults and children. Plenty of Parking was available when we visited. Its a nice place to relax and chill. Recommended.

🌳 Fantastic Family Park & Coastal Pool Opening Soon! Visited this lovely park in Geelong today during our holiday, and it was a great time despite the chill. The well‑equipped play area kept the kids entertained, with plenty of open grass, picnic and BBQ facilities, and clean amenities. The views of Corio Bay were simply stunning—perfect backdrop for family photos and sandy play. We were delighted to learn that the children’s sea pool at Eastern Beach—just by the park—is set to reopen from 1 November through to April. The shallow wading area, with its diving tower, springboards and fountains, is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season . That gives us another seaside treat later this year! Highlights: Great for kids: Playground zones + space for running games Amenities: BBQs, picnic tables, toilets, showers Scenic spot: Art-deco boardwalk, sea baths, diving platforms Seasonal bonus: Children’s pool opens 1 Nov–21 Apr, with lifeguards on duty Despite a crisp spring breeze, our crew had a blast. Can’t wait to visit again in November when the sea pool reopens—another fun swim to add to our Geelong holiday plans!

This is beautiful part of the world & Eastern Beach Reserve is an airy space to enjoy a full view across the bay. This is a great place to walk, run & play. Includes a children's playground and is ideal for all outside activities. I certainly found our visit here very relaxing & great place for quiet reflection.

Probably one of my favourite places in Geelong ,we were over from our house in Bali and I was able to show my 13 year old son where I Bude to train in the open water pool, It is right beside the yatch club so it makes it interesting

Good place to relax if the crowd is less. Beware of seagulls, do not feed them. Keep your eatables covered else the swoop down and snatch it away.

This is my FAVOURITE BEACH!! And it’s the BEST BEACH I’ve been to out of all the beaches in Melbourne!! The most Cleanest and beautiful beach I’ve been to!!! Absolutely stunning!! We don’t go to any other beach we always come to eastern beach!! Very relaxing!! Absolutely recommend this beach to all my family and friends!!! ♥️♥️♥️♥️

This is the BEST BEACH IN THE WHOLE MELBOURNE!!! Absolutely the BEST!!! Everytime I come down from Sydney this is the beach that me and my family come too all the time!!! We don’t go to any other beach! We only come to Eastern Beach!!! This beach is better than Sydney beaches where I live!! I love how they always keep it CLEAN!!! It is always clean!!! And friendly people!!! It is a very family friendly environment!! When I came downtown they had decorated and added so many beautiful things to the beach! Well done and keep up the good work!!! ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️