Pirianda Garden — Attraction in Melbourne

To get to this garden - Do Not use google maps! It will take you up very steep & unsealed Perrins Rd. Use next door Gentiana Nursery add: 138 Olinda-Monbulk Rd & enter into unsealed Hacketts Rd to get into parking area for this garden. The signage for Pirianda Garden is pretty insignificant- do not miss it...

Returning to this little known garden in the Ranges after an interval of almost 2 decades - to find nothing much has changed is disappointing. Why is Pirianda always the poorer cousin to the Dandy Ranges Botanic Gardens 5 kms away? The only difference I have noticed now - is a proper entrance into the garden & upgraded paths. Paths are a steep descent - assess your fitness to get back up again. The curving wide vehicle access road (near toilets) is a better one to take if you are not up to it. The Fern Gully path further down under canopy of trees & ferns is pretty damp & slippery.

A couple - who had brought their elderly parent with them were disappointed - there is no vehicle access or even an easy vantage lookout at the top to take in the expansive downhill views. The pretty gazebo is quite a steep way down. As such - the elderly & parents with very young children in prams/strollers miss out unless very fit to be able to navigate the steep descent & ascent.

There are so many exotic trees planted by the Ansell family & yet all you see sometimes is a plaque but no tree. The late gasp of autumn colours were still stunning 2 weeks ago but just not enough mass plantings to add year round colour. One lone purple salvia added picturesque foreground colour to autumnal tones but this was it!!

So much potential but Parks Victoria just overlooks this gem. There must have been damage during last year's catastrophic storm event..but I really could not see any replanting. It looks pretty much the same as it did 2 decades ago...😟😟

This is such a tranquil & serene garden partly thanks to its obscure status I guess...Really deserves better treatment.. I would rather the Parks maintenance levy I contribute on my Water bill be put to beneficial use to preserve & enhance this Oasis in the Ranges. Btw - my pics attached are mostly the good bits in this garden - Sat...

A Peaceful Paradise in the Dandenongs: Pirianda Gardens.

Pirianda Gardens is a hidden gem nestled in the Dandenongs. It's the perfect spot for a tranquil escape with family and friends. Here's what truly impressed me:

Tranquil Escape: This garden offers a serene atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle. Stunning Beauty: The gardens are meticulously maintained, boasting a vibrant display of flowers and lush greenery. Family-Friendly: With ample parking and clean restrooms, Pirianda Gardens caters comfortably to families with children. A Word of Caution: While exploring the gardens, be mindful of the steep terrain, especially when venturing downhill. Take your time and wear appropriate footwear for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The reward? Breathtaking views at the bottom! The culmination of the walk down is a truly spectacular vista, making the trek absolutely worthwhile.

Overall, Pirianda Gardens is a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful and scenic escape in the Dandenongs. Just remember to be cautious on the slopes and...

Pirianda Gardens is a hidden gem in the Dandenongs, offering peaceful surroundings with stunning views over Cardinia Reservoir. The 11-hectare woodland garden contains many botanically significant exotic specimen trees and shrubs that are rare in Australia., including maples and birch varieties.Collections of magnolias, azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, dogwoods and many conifers can be seen. Some areas are unaccessble due to Falken trees. The zigzagging paths lead through exotic tree plantings and down to tranquil fern gullies, making it ideal for a relaxing stroll. While it’s not off-leash, it’s a great spot for a walk with your dog, though you’ll need to bring your own water as there’s no water station or swimming areas. The garden is rarely crowded, so you can enjoy the beautiful blooms and clean facilities in peace. With its terraced landscapes and rare plant species, it’s a unique experience for...