With it's rich volcanic soil, the Dandenong Ranges is home to so many of Victoria's most outstanding gardens. Many were planted up to 100 years ago meaning they house some of the best examples of their kind in Australia. When you stay with us you can pre order a delicious picnic hamper with a selection of gourmet locally sourced and prepared goodies all packaged up for you, ready to go exploring.

26 Observatory Rd | $6 Gate Fee | Open Daily
Head out on a romantic drive and enjoy the stunning views over Melbourne at sunset from SkyHigh and maybe stay for dinner. Get lost in the SkyHigh Maze, visit Percy The Possum’s House, the Australiana Tree and Giant’s Chair. Spread a rug and picnic on the viewing terrace and then take a walk through the gardens to the Secret Garden.

Belgrave | See website for dates
Puffing Billy travels through the magnificent forests and fern gullies from Belgrave to Gembrook. Share the grandeur and charm of a three hour steam train journey whilst enjoying lunch or dinner. There are also special events such as Dine & Dance, Jazz, Rhythm & Blues and Murder on the Puffing Billy Express.

The perfect addition to every romantic getaway, enjoy a relaxing Massage or Spa Treatment in the privacy and comfort of your Accommodation. There is something for everyone with relaxation massage, facials for men and women, aromatic hot towel treatments, aromatherapy massage, hot oil body wraps and even pregnancy massages. Just add it to your booking.

Is eating chocolate linked to romance? Well, whether you believe there is a connection between chocolate and love, or between love and sweets in general it never hurts to try! Only Mine in Olinda (pictured) has delicious homemade chocolates to try and buy as does the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice creamery. For hard to find sweets, drop into the Sassafras Sweet Co that has a shop in Olinda & Sassafras.

The oldest restaurant in the Dandenong Ranges, established in 1893. It has undergone many restorations, has excellent food and is set on a beautiful 7 acre garden. Enjoy your lunch or dinner then walk the gardens, returning for dessert and finishing with a coffee in front of the roaring fire. Wednesday is Bistro night with a 3 course chef's set menu for just $50! Open for Lunch Weds - Sun and Dinner Weds, Fri & Sat.

You'll discover great wine tasting and winery restaurants for lunch scattered throughout the region. Download the Winery Map and begin a tour of discovery or join an organised tour with our recommended tour operator to get the best cellar door experience. The winemakers love to talk about their wines and the winemaking process while you taste. See our Restaurants section for our recommended restaurants.

Belgrave | December - March
One of Melbourne's best outdoor cinema's is just down the road in Belgrave, showing new releases and retro classics. Once day has turned to night, grab a drink and something to eat from the Cameo bar, relax onto a deck chair or picnic blanket and watch as the screen flickers to life. At other times of the year, this gorgeous vintage cinema is still worth a visit.

You'll be surprised how many unique and impressive things there are to do in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges. Surprise your partner with seeing the area from above in a hot air balloon, a helicopter or even a vintage Tiger Moth. Maybe get a different perspective from the back of a Harley Davidson. For the brave there is even sky diving. The perfect way to spoil the one you love - you can do them all here!