Discover Mt Dandenong

Mt Dandenong offers several reasons to explore the area: sculptures in a natural setting, cool fern gullies and tall native forests, sweeping views across Melbourne, and a village with cafés and specialist shops. When planning your holiday accommodation, it helps to first consider which of these aspects interests you most. Art and nature, views, and a visit to the village each bring a different focus to your stay.

Sculptures among nature

William Ricketts Sanctuary reopened on 3 August 2026 as part of the first reopening phase. A severe storm had closed the site in June 2021. At the time of reopening, some areas remained closed off. Check current access conditions before visiting, as works and access may change.

A distinctive feature of the Sanctuary is its sculptures, some of which lie partially hidden in the natural surroundings. Art and landscape are seen together as a result: the works cannot simply be separated from their surroundings, but appear in places among the natural forms. Those interested in this connection will find a different focus here than on an excursion centred mainly on sweeping views or the atmosphere of a village.

Forest, views and special places

SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is on the highest section of the Dandenong Ranges, surrounded by cool fern gullies and tall, lush native forests. This description gives the place a distinct landscape character. From SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, the Mt Dandenong Circuit offers sweeping views across Melbourne. The forest setting and city panorama therefore provide different impressions side by side.

SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is also home to the Australiana Tree, Percy Possum's House and the Giant's Chair. These names offer specific points of interest for a visit and can be enjoyed alongside the landscape. Lyrebirds are often heard in the area around the Mt Dandenong Circuit; this refers to the area, not to every section of the route.

You can therefore tailor your excursions to different interests: the Sanctuary represents art in a natural setting, SkyHigh and the Circuit offer forest and views, and the named attractions at SkyHigh add to this part of your stay. This mix can help you decide which experiences should guide your choice of holiday accommodation.

Getting there and finding your way

There are two rail options described for travelling from Melbourne: the Belgrave Line runs to Upper Ferntree Gully Station, and the Lilydale Line to Croydon Station. From both stations, you can connect to bus route 688 towards Mount Dandenong. This information describes a connection within the wider region. Check current train and bus information before travelling so your plans are based on the services currently in operation.

In Mount Dandenong village, you’ll find a cosy café culture and specialist shops. These add another way to spend time in the area alongside its natural and artistic attractions. Individual businesses and offerings may change. When choosing holiday accommodation, you can therefore consider whether your trip will focus more on the landscapes and art described here, or whether a visit to the village is also a priority.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Preston, Oakleigh, Braybrook, Kew, Eden Park, Belgrave, Fairfield, Emerald.

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