Exclusive Spring Tours

Spring is here and we will soon see our gardens in full bloom. With the warmer weather comes the beautiful colours throughout the Dandenong Ranges, just in time for Secret Gardens of the Dandenong Ranges to open the gates to some of Melbourne's finest privately owned gardens this October 17-20 and 24-27.

Operating for only four days per week for two weeks in spring, no two days in the same week have the same program. Book all four days in a single week to be delighted with different gardens daily and everything from fine dining to gourmet picnics, a village experience and first class two-course meal aboard Puffing Billy.

Nestled in the town of Olinda is a magnificent garden called Beechmont - a beautiful, 10-acre garden belonging to Cherrie Miriklis-Pavlou, Managing Director and Owner of iconic Melbourne florist Flowers Vasette. Join the Secret Gardens tour on Friday 26 October and be treated to an exclusive Floral workshop with Cherrie and her team demonstrating floral arrangement for the home, accompanied by a glass of Yarra Valley Sparkling Wine.

Saturday 27 October will see the gates of Melbourne's famous Kenloch Estate open once more to a stunning piece of 100-year-old history. Kenloch Estate closed its doors to the public in 2006 and has been a private home ever since. Come and enjoy a gourmet picnic amongst the Kenloch acreage, with its historic buildings and gardens now carefully and lovingly restored to their former glory.

Learn more about Phillip Johnson's sustainable landscape designs on Thursday 25 October as he shows you around his own magnificent Olinda hideaway, before walking you through his latest creation at the award-winning Seville Estate winery. Awarded Winery of the Year 2019 James Halliday Wine Companion, you'll be guided through the completely re-landscaped rich red volcanic soil gardens, as you approach the cellar door to finish with a tasting of their brilliant wines.

Each day you'll be chauffeured through the Dandenongs, while botanical tour guides and local historians from the Mt Dandenong & District Historical Society share with you their expertise and stories behind these exclusive gardens and surrounding areas.

If you're looking to spoil that someone special or an avid garden lover yourself, you won't want to miss out on the Secret Gardens of the Dandenong Ranges this October. Unwind in the glorious landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges and finish each day with a glass of wine and hors-d'oeuvres back at our starting point, Karwarra garden. With only 50 places available each day, be sure to book early to secure your place.

Find out more, here.