Gresswell Forest — Attraction in Melbourne

Gresswell Nature Conservation Reserves are part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri Peoples. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country. The Gresswell Nature Conservation Reserves, made up of Gresswell Forest, Gresswell Hill and Gresswell Habitat Link, protect 70 hectares of important flora and fauna habitat. Experience the area's diverse vegetation and abundant wildlife on the reserves' many walking trails, and explore this precious pocket of wilderness in Melbourne's north-east.

Gresswell Forest Nature Conservation Reserve is the largest of the three Nature Conservation Reserves. Here you'll find remnant River Red Gum woodland that's home to many different bird and animal species. It is significant as one of the most intact examples of remnant Grassy Woodland in the Melbourne region Gresswell Forest Nature Conservation Reserve was first created as a buffer zone around a quarantine wing of the Mont Park Hospital in the early 20th century. The land was then excised from the hospital in 1976 and managed by La Trobe University from 1978 until 2011.

Gresswell Hill Nature Conservation is part of the endangered Box Woodland environment and is dominated by Yellow Box and River Red Gums. Gresswell Hill is also considered to be regionally significant animal habitat. The nine hectare reserve was once part of the Mont Park Psychiatric Hospital grounds and formed a Nature Conservation Reserve in 1978. La Trobe University commenced management of the reserve in the mid 1990’s at the time the land around it was developed for housing. Gresswell Hill once contained a former army signal tower and still contains a decommissioned water tower. 10 car park inside promises Street parking available Picnic and...

Gresswell Grassland is a hidden treasure, boasting exceptional accessibility and a diverse array of Melbourne's iconic flora and fauna, including epic blue tongue lizard, or the resilient River Red Gum trees. As you explore the park, you'll encounter plants like this Asperula, and rare species like the Matted flax Lilly, enriching your experience with the wonders of Victoria's volcanic plains. The gentle rustle of the Windmill Grass and the vibrant blooms of the Kangaroo Grass add to the park's ecological charm. Plus, with its excellent accessibility and a public barbecue area perfect for relishing a classic Melbourne tofu plant-based sausage sandwich, Gresswell Grassland earns its five-star...

A nice place for a walk with wide pathways and a bench or two hidden in there somewhere. You're likely to see roos if the weather/time of day is right.

The tracks around the borders are backed on to by houses, but if you "cut in" when you see a track heading into the forest, you'll forget you're in the suburbs and feel like Eltham 15 years ago (minus the horses!)

Note: there are no pets allowed as it's run as a reserve, and the entrances are the "1 at a time" type that keep unwanted bikes and pets out. These may also be uncomfortable or may not work for very obese people, and are impassable for a wheelchair or...