Summary

A picturesque lake and public garden walk of beautiful exotic and native foliage with flowering across all seasons. With many secret places, it is perfect for families. This walk is a must do!

Description

Originally the garden of the historic Burnham Beeches estate, this 13 hectare is site is now managed by Parks Victoria. Gorgeously nestled into a steep wet gully under a canopy of majestic Mountain Ash is a garden of great beauty that surrounds a singularly lovely ornamental lake.

A delight in any season, autumn is a favourite visiting time for many. In particular, the golden yellows of the grand Gingkoes beside the lake are something special. Winter boasts the flowering of many varieties of Camellia and Rhododendron that carries over into Spring. Spring sees a burst of colour from the likes of Azaleas, Kalmias and flowering Cherries. In summer the Hydrangeas, Fuchsias and terrestrial Orchids come into their own. It really is something of a wonderland.

The parking area opposite the gates is sizeable. However, it does fill in peak periods.

There are several variations you can choose for this walk. All tracks are clearly defined and link into each other. There are many smaller feature tracks as well as some native forest tracks. The principal tracks are mapped here for the broadest experience of the site, but you could probably add another 1km+ of walking if you wish.

Surfaces vary across sealed, gravel and dirt. Inside the entrance area, the flat top of the site has some bitumen paths from which the less able can enjoy the surroundings. Note: other areas can be quite steep.

There are public toilets at the top and bottom of the site.

Other walks in this area
Quarry Park, Upper Ferntree Gully
Bungalook Nature Reserve

Amenities
Car parking
Seating
Parkland
Waterway
Picnic tables
Public toilets
Trail head sign
Walking tracks
Historic features
Directional signs
Information signs
Alternative routes
Flora and fauna habitat

Cautions
Open water
Steep grades
Rocks may fall
Limbs may fall
Embankments
Uneven ground
Surfaces vary
Snakes may be active
Mobile reception may be unreliable
Be mindful to keep within the Reserve
Carry water, be SunSmart

Restrictions
Dogs must be leashed & under control at all times
No firearms
No hunting
No camping
Take rubbish with you
Native flora and fauna are protected
Closed on days of total fire ban
No vehicle, 4WD or motor bike access

7706 Views

Points of Interest

1. Car parking

Tends towards full in peak visiting periods.

2. Entrance gates

The solid stone gated entrance is a good indication of what is to come, extensive stone work is a feature of the gardens.

3. Top ponds

Small side tracks take you to hidden sites of understory, fernery and pondage.

4. Floral displays are stunning

Azelias.

5. Stunning tracks

The tracks flow along the contours of the site to intersect and criss cross for a choose your own adventure experience.

6. Adopted stonework

The garden dates back to 1933. Tree ferns have had many decades to adapt to the man made intrusion into their natural environment.

7. Mountain ash trunks

The mix of massive Mountain ash native forest with diverse and colourful exotics makes for a sensory delight.

8. Gazebo and public art

There are paths off the main tracks on both sides of an open space containing a gazebo and a stone sculpture by artist Mark Stoner.

9. Boathouse

This must be one one of the most photographed structures in Victoria.

10. Ornamental lake with foot bridges.

This really is a special place of water, secret paths and bridges, hidden falls and sunken walkways. Kids absolutely love it.

11. Autumn Gingkoes

The golden autumn display of the beautiful Gingko trees around the lake is something to behold.

Features

Picnic spot

Seating available

Public toilets

Historical interest

Art and culture

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river

Park / Garden