Day 2.3: Ballarat Botanical Gardens – A Serene Escape 🌿🦢

On a lazy afternoon, I wandered into the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, a charming green oasis nestled beside Lake Wendouree. Though compact, this garden packs a punch with its manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and free-roaming black swans—a scene straight out of a postcard. 🌺 Garden Highlights Conservatory: A stunning glasshouse filled with tropical plants and seasonal blooms (spring tulips are a must-see!). Prime Minister’s Avenue: Busts of Australia’s leaders line this historic walkway. Black Swan Spotting: These elegant birds wander freely, often posing for photos like natural-born models. 📸 Photo Ops Golden Hour (4-5PM): Soft light filters through the trees, perfect for dreamy portraits. Swan Selfies: Get close (but not too close—they’re wild after all!). 🍽️ Nearby Eats The Boatshed Café: Sip coffee by the lake, watching swans glide past. ⏳ Time Needed 1-2 hours for a relaxed stroll. #BallaratBotanicalGardens #LakeWendouree #SlowTravel