A short cruise in your hire car from Melbourne will bring you to the rolling hills of Mount Dandenong- known for its lush forests, scenic drives and small villages with friendly and relaxed locals. It’s the perfect escape from the daily grind of the city- and only a short drive to boot! You won’t believe the sights that await you a stone’s throw from bustling Melbourne.
The Dandenong Ranges National Park
There’s plenty to see and do in the Dandenong Ranges National Park, including getting your exercise in walking the countless tracks that wind through the exquisite bushland, taking in the views from various lookout points, eating at the Sky High restaurant at the peak and cooking up some lunch at the many picnic and BBQ spots. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway, a solo adventure or a day out with the family and has something for everyone.
While in the area make sure you take a ride on the heritage Puffing Billy steam engine that runs from Belgrave to Gembrook. It’s a classic favourite to take the kids on- or even just to act like big kids for a day!
Cruise to nearby towns
If you have a bit of extra time up your sleeve enjoy a breezy drive through beautiful landscape to the nearby towns of Olinda, Kalorama and the famous Yarra Valley. This is the oldest wine region in Victoria, with an incredible 80 vast vineyards and picturesque scenery. Have you heard of world-famous Domain Chandon or Rochford Wines? These vineyards all call this area home. Many of the wineries located within the Yarra Valley offer tasting sessions to please the palette, as well as restaurants to try delicious local foods whilst breathing in the fresh country air.
Are you looking for something a little more active? The Yarra Valley also has countless activities to fill your day. Take a leap of faith and try hot air ballooning above the stunning landscape of the Dandenongs, enjoy a visit to Healesville Sanctuary, home to native Australian animals like the wallaby and platypus in a natural habitat, or have a fun-filled day at the local Seville Water Park.
If you are keen on extending the trip and making a weekend or it, the area has a large range of hotels, motels and caravan parks to suit every budget or road trip.
Ready to hit the road and explore the Dandenong Ranges? Find the best hire car for your trip with SIXT car rental, we have locations through Melbourne and also in Dandenong as well.
