The Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne, Australia

The Dandenong Ranges in Australia are located around 35 kilometers from the city of Melbourne. These rolling mountain ranges run through a lush rainforest, giving visitors an amazing view of the landscape. The forest itself contains many of the tall Mountain Ash trees that are native to the Dandenong area in Australia. When the Europeans arrived in the region, the Dandenong Ranges were originally used as a timber supply for nearby Melbourne. In 1987, the region was officially designated as the Dandenong Ranges National Park, protected the area from further destruction.

Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne, Australia: European fun in Olinda

The town of Olinda in the Australian Dandenong Ranges prides itself on its resemblance to the cities of Western Europe. The village's Cuckoo restaurant is designed with a European theme and offers a variety of delicious European foods. The nightly Bavarian show should not be missed. Complete with yodeling, cowbell ringing, and various forms of slap dancing, these shows can make tourists forget they are in the Dandenong Ranges in Australia instead of Europe.

Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne, Australia: Where to stay

If you are looking for a romantic getaway in the Dandenong Ranges, consider making reservations at the Loft in the Mill bed and breakfast. Conveniently located near Olinda, this Dandenong hotel sits in an old mill house that has been converted to house guests. Luxury amenities include four-poster beds in each guest room, along with a real log fireplace and spa. Linden Gardens is another beautiful place to stay in the Australian Dandenong Ranges. This luxury hotel is set between the mammoth mountain ash trees of the area's lush forest, giving every room a breathtaking view. The Sanctuary Tower provides an especially amazing view, with windows running from the ceiling all the way down to the floor. This luxury suite covers three entire floors and has a two person hot tub inside the room.

Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne, Australia: Puffing Billy

For a unique trip around the trees of the Dandenong Ranges, take a ride on the Puffing Billy train. This train has been in operation for over one hundred years, making it one of the oldest running steam engines in all of Australia. The train still carries passengers on its original route, traveling from Belgrave to Gembrook and back every day of the year except for Christmas. The train's cars are open and the tracks are raised up so passengers get a great view of the tall trees surrounding them and the lush environment of the Dandenong Ranges in Australia.