What a place. Cranbourne showcases the Australian landscape from Tasmania to the top of the Northern Territory . Wander along Possum Gully wildflower walk. Breathe in the scent of cinnamon wattle blooms in spring. Take in the sheer splendour of the stark austere landscape of Australia’s red centre, the desert is a masterful stroke at the entrance. Australia’s outdoor vistas assail you as as wander through Cranbourne. You almost expect to see Uluru around the corner.
HOW MANY PLANTS ARE THERE IN CRANBOURNE GARDENS?
Cranbourne Gardens have over 100,000 plants from 1,900 plant varieties. Signage explains traditional Aboriginal use and practices for individual plants as well as the impact of colonisation on the plant’s survival status.
There are plenty of grassy mounds and seating arrangements for families and friends to rest and take in the sight before them.
The garden rooms deftly cover the diverse Australian landscape from the cool climate of Tasmania to the lush forests of Queensland. Every garden room has ample signage as well as descriptions of the expected climate conditions. Visitors do not feel lectured, rather they are invited to appreciate the climate zones of Australia and what it means for the flora and fauna of the region.
It is recommended visitors allow up to 3 hours to explore the gardens. Hop aboard the garden shuttle service for an overview then leisurely explore the gardens at your own pace.
Enjoy the challenge put before local visitors to plant natives and forget the rose bed. Plant natives that do not need a drop of precious water during summer droughts. The suburban garden is reimagined, completed with a timber cut out of a house.
The original bush surrounding Cranbourne is a protected reserve with over 450 native plants. There are over 10 km of walking and cycling trails to explore. A lookout tower, shelters and designed BBQ and playgrounds makes the area popular with families.
Due to the predator proof fencing in Cranbourne and surrounding area you have a reasonable chance of spotting wildlife from kangaroos, wallabies to native birds.
HOW TO GET TO CRANBOURNE?
Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is 50 km from Melbourne’s CBD and approximately a 50 minute drive. Allow for peak hour traffic when planning a visit. The Monash Freeway is a known hot spot for severely congested traffic. Cranbourne Gardens is open every day of the year except Christmas Day.
Entry is free, except for special ticketed events. The opening hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm. Check beforehand for up to date conditions and opening hours to avoid disappointment.
The car park is free, admission fees apply.
GETTING AROUND CRANBOURNE
There is a regular people mover, shuttle bus. Tickets can be purchased on entry to the gardens.
There is a popular cafe on site frequented by locals. You do not need to enter the gardens to enjoy a cafe with its superb views of Cranbourne.
The excellent gift shop stocks exclusively made in Australia goods. There is a wide variety of goods from homeware, scents, jewellery, souvenirs and clothing available.
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS CRANBOURNE LOCATION
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