The Enchanting William Ricketts Sanctuary
Discover the captivating William Ricketts Sanctuary, where art and nature intertwine in the breathtaking Dandenong Ranges.
Nestled in the scenic Dandenong Ranges, the William Ricketts Sanctuary is a mesmerizing blend of nature and artistry. This unique park features stunning sculptures carved by artist William Ricketts, surrounded by lush greenery and serene walking paths, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking beauty and tranquility.
A brief summary to William Ricketts Sanctuary
- 1402 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Mount Dandenong, Victoria, 3767, AU
- +61131963
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven paths.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning sculptures and natural scenery.
- Check local weather conditions to ensure a pleasant visit.
- Take your time to appreciate each sculpture; they have rich stories behind them.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from Melbourne, take the M3 Eastern Freeway and follow signs toward Ringwood. Merge onto the EastLink freeway (M3) toward Frankston. Take the exit toward Dandenong and follow the signs to Mount Dandenong via the Burwood Highway (B60). Continue straight onto Mt Dandenong Tourist Road. After approximately 30 km, you will arrive at 1402 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767, where William Ricketts Sanctuary is located. There is free parking available on-site.
-
Public Transport
To reach William Ricketts Sanctuary via public transport, take a train from Melbourne's Flinders Street Station to Upper Ferntree Gully Station on the Belgrave Line. From Upper Ferntree Gully, you can catch the 688 bus (toward The Basin) to the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road. The bus stop is a short walk from the sanctuary, approximately a 15-minute walk uphill. Ensure to check the schedule in advance as bus frequencies may vary throughout the day. Note that the train fare will depend on your departure station, and bus fare is typically around AUD 4.20 for a one-way trip.
-
Taxi/Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route without public transport schedules, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Request a ride to 1402 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767. The cost will vary depending on your starting location, but expect to pay around AUD 60-90 from central Melbourne. This option is convenient and can drop you directly at the sanctuary entrance.
Discover more about William Ricketts Sanctuary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sherbrooke Falls
6.0 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Sherbrooke Falls, a scenic oasis in Dandenong Ranges National Park, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Yarra Valley Smokery
8.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of smoked delicacies at Yarra Valley Smokery, a must-visit café and barbecue restaurant in Lilydale, Victoria.
Yarra Valley Winery Tours
8.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Yarra Valley with winery tours that offer exquisite tastings, scenic views, and local culinary delights.
Yarra Ranges Estate
9.5 km
Experience the beauty of Yarra Ranges Estate, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking vineyard views in the heart of Victoria.
Wild Cattle Creek Estate pm
9.9 km
Discover the beauty of Wild Cattle Creek Estate in Yarra Valley, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking winery views in a tranquil setting.
Vines of the Yarra Valley - Wedding Reception & Function Venue
10.9 km
Discover the enchanting Vines of the Yarra Valley, where breathtaking landscapes meet exquisite event spaces for unforgettable weddings and gatherings.
Seville Estate
11.5 km
Discover the charm of Seville Estate, a premier winery in the Yarra Valley, known for exquisite wines, delightful dining, and breathtaking views.
Bianchet Yarra Valley Restaurant & Events
12.8 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of France paired with the finest wines in the heart of Yarra Valley at Bianchet Yarra Valley Restaurant & Events.
Yarra Valley Lodge
13.6 km
Discover the charm of Yarra Valley Lodge, where luxury meets nature in Victoria's stunning wine country, perfect for relaxation and culinary adventures.
Kellybrook Winery
13.8 km
Explore Kellybrook Winery in Yarra Valley, where exceptional wines and ciders meet stunning landscapes and an inviting atmosphere.
Bramleigh Estate
14.0 km
Discover the elegance of Bramleigh Estate, a premier wedding and event venue in Warrandyte, surrounded by stunning gardens and a serene atmosphere.
Yering Farm Wines
15.5 km
Explore Yering Farm Wines, a stunning winery in Victoria's Yarra Valley, known for its award-winning wines and breathtaking vineyard views.
Hubert Estate
16.0 km
Experience the exquisite blend of fine dining, art, and culture at Hubert Estate in the beautiful Yarra Valley.
Stones of the Yarra Valley
16.4 km
Experience the elegance of Stones of the Yarra Valley, a premier venue surrounded by breathtaking vineyards, exquisite dining, and nature's beauty.
Meletos
16.5 km
Experience the best of Yarra Valley cuisine at Meletos, a charming restaurant and event venue with a focus on local produce and exceptional service.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Dandenong
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Dandenong, a premier destination for stunning views, nature walks, and peaceful escapes in Victoria, Australia.
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and delightful dining at SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, a premier destination in Victoria's Dandenong Ranges.
Burkes Lookout
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Burkes Lookout in Mount Dandenong, Victoria, with panoramic views of Melbourne and stunning natural scenery.
Mount Dandenong Arboretum
0.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and diverse flora of Mount Dandenong Arboretum, a tranquil retreat in Victoria's Dandenong Ranges.
Silvan Dam Lookout
2.0 km
Explore Silvan Dam Lookout: A breathtaking destination in Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
2.4 km
Explore the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, a stunning botanical haven in Victoria, showcasing diverse flora and breathtaking landscapes for all nature lovers.
Olinda
2.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Olinda, a charming village in Victoria's Dandenong Ranges known for its stunning gardens, artistic community, and breathtaking views.
Olinda Village
2.6 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Olinda Village, a charming destination in Victoria offering stunning landscapes, vibrant arts, and delightful local cuisine.
R.J. Hamer Arboretum
3.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and diverse plant life at R.J. Hamer Arboretum, a stunning nature retreat in the Dandenong Ranges.
Woolrich Lookout
3.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty at Woolrich Lookout, a must-visit scenic spot in the Dandenong Ranges of Victoria.
Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
4.8 km
Explore the stunning Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden, a serene escape in the Dandenong Ranges, perfect for nature lovers and leisurely strolls.
Quinn Reserve
4.8 km
Explore Quinn Reserve, a serene nature preserve in Mount Evelyn, Victoria, where native bushland meets scenic walking trails and rich wildlife.
George Tindale Memorial Gardens
5.4 km
Explore the lush beauty of George Tindale Memorial Gardens in Victoria's Dandenong Ranges, where vibrant blooms and tranquility await.
Olinda Creek Trail
5.5 km
Discover the Olinda Creek Trail: A scenic hiking area in Victoria's Yarra Valley, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
GRANTS ON SHERBROOKE, Grants Picnic Ground
6.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Grants Picnic Ground in Kallista, Victoria – a perfect picnic spot surrounded by lush nature and wildlife.
Essential places to dine
Outback Family Bistro
15.0 km
Experience authentic Australian cuisine at Outback Family Bistro in Rowville – where family-friendly dining meets delicious flavors.
Archie's Farm Restaurant & Bar
15.2 km
Discover the best of Australian cuisine at Archie's Farm Restaurant & Bar in Scoresby - where farm-fresh meets fine dining.
Eleonore's Restaurant @ Chateau Yering
18.2 km
Experience gourmet dining amidst stunning vineyard views at Eleonore's Restaurant in Yarra Valley - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
The Roe Australia Restaurant
18.2 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of seafood and Asian flavors at The Roe Australia Restaurant in Glen Waverley.
Tokar Estate
18.3 km
Experience exquisite dining and fine wines at Tokar Estate in Yarra Valley - where nature meets culinary excellence.
Fondata 1872
19.3 km
Experience culinary artistry at Fondata 1872 - where exquisite Italian flavors meet breathtaking views in Kangaroo Ground.
il Vigneto Pizzeria Yarra Valley
19.4 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at il Vigneto Pizzeria Yarra Valley with stunning vineyard views and delicious wood-fired pizzas.
Many Hands Winery
20.0 km
Experience exquisite wines and culinary delights at Many Hands Winery in Victoria's stunning Yarra Valley.
Great Eastern Hakka Restaurant
20.6 km
Experience an exceptional blend of Chinese and Hakka flavors at Great Eastern Hakka Restaurant in Mount Waverley.
Sanctuary House Restaurant and Bar
23.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at Sanctuary House Restaurant and Bar in Yarra Valley – where local flavors meet unforgettable experiences.
No.7 Healesville
23.8 km
Discover No.7 Healesville: A premier dining destination in Yarra Valley with exquisite food and exceptional local wines.
O.MY Restaurant
23.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at O.MY Restaurant in Beaconsfield – where innovative dishes meet local flavors in a charming setting.
Herd
24.3 km
Experience the best of Yarra Valley dining at Herd, where local produce meets exceptional flavors in a cozy setting.
Chachi Yarra Valley
24.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Chachi Yarra Valley, where culinary artistry meets stunning natural beauty in Healesville.
The Bodhi Tree Restaurant
25.1 km
Discover The Bodhi Tree Restaurant in Healesville - A delightful dining experience with fresh local ingredients and serene ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Where The Wilde Things Are
1.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique handmade gifts and accessories at Where The Wilde Things Are in the heart of Olinda.
Touchstone Craft Gallery
2.6 km
Explore Touchstone Craft Gallery in Olinda for authentic Australian crafts, art, and jewelry - a true representation of local creativity.
Dr Quirky's Vintage Emporium
2.6 km
Explore the unique and charming Dr Quirky's Vintage Emporium, where vintage clothing, antiques, and musical treasures await in Olinda.
Smits & Bits
3.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Smits & Bits in Sassafras, a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the Dandenong Ranges.
Quirky and the Jakster
3.4 km
Explore the eclectic styles and unique fashion offerings at Quirky and the Jakster, a must-visit clothing store in the heart of Sassafras.
The Fair Trader Gifts
7.9 km
Explore unique, ethically-sourced gifts and homewares at The Fair Trader Gifts in Croydon South, a treasure trove for conscious shoppers.
Yarra Valley Hunting and Recreation
8.4 km
Visit Yarra Valley Hunting and Recreation for expert advice and a wide selection of firearms in the stunning Yarra Valley region.
Funky Stuff
8.4 km
Explore Funky Stuff in Belgrave for unique gifts, eclectic furniture, and stylish clothing, all in a welcoming atmosphere.
Yarra Valley Cycles
8.6 km
Discover the beauty of Yarra Valley with Yarra Valley Cycles - your premier bicycle rental and repair shop for scenic adventures.
EQ Saddlery Yarra Valley
8.9 km
Explore EQ Saddlery in Yarra Valley for top-notch equestrian supplies, animal feed, and a unique shopping experience in the heart of Victoria.
Yarra Valley Platter Co
9.4 km
Discover the flavors of Yarra Valley at Yarra Valley Platter Co, your go-to destination for gourmet gift baskets filled with local delicacies.
Outback Traders Australia
10.0 km
Discover authentic Western apparel and outdoor gear at Outback Traders Australia, the ultimate destination for adventurers and style seekers alike.
Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods
12.7 km
Discover the best of Yarra Valley's gourmet cuisine at Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods – a culinary treasure trove for food enthusiasts.
The General Food Store
13.2 km
Experience the delightful flavors and cozy ambiance of The General Food Store, a must-visit café in Emerald, Victoria for breakfast and coffee lovers.
Behind The Trees
13.4 km
Explore unique artisan gifts and enjoy a cozy café experience at Behind The Trees in Emerald, Victoria.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pig & Whistle Tavern
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Pig & Whistle Tavern in Olinda, a perfect blend of delicious cuisine, local brews, and a cozy atmosphere amidst stunning nature.
The Budgie Bar
10.8 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of art, cocktails, and culinary delights at The Budgie Bar in Ringwood, Victoria's premier event venue.
Lodge Bar
13.6 km
Discover the charm of Lodge Bar in Chirnside Park, where cozy ambiance meets delightful local flavors in the heart of Yarra Valley.
Napoleone Cider & Orchard Bar
16.5 km
Experience the refreshing taste of locally crafted ciders amidst the beautiful orchards of Yarra Valley at Napoleone Cider & Orchard Bar.
Lulu's Bar & Burgers
19.6 km
Experience the best of Yarra Glen at Lulu's Bar & Burgers, where gourmet burgers meet a lively bar atmosphere.
Naught Distilling
22.7 km
Experience the artistry of cocktails at Naught Distilling in Eltham, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Cunninghams Hotel
23.0 km
Experience the charm of Cunninghams Hotel in Yarra Junction, where vibrant dining meets live music in a picturesque setting.
Watts River Brewing
23.6 km
Discover the art of brewing at Watts River Brewing, where craft beer meets gourmet pizza in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Cavanagh’s Whisky & Alehouse
24.4 km
Discover Cavanagh’s Whisky & Alehouse, a top bar in Healesville offering an exquisite selection of whisky and ales in a cozy atmosphere.
Grand Hotel Healesville - The Local
24.5 km
Discover the local charm and exquisite wines at Grand Hotel Healesville – a delightful pub in the heart of Yarra Valley.
Bar None
26.2 km
Experience the best cocktails and vibrant atmosphere at Bar None in Camberwell - a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts!
The Bar Royal B-Side
28.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere at The Bar Royal B-Side in Glen Huntly, where great drinks and good company await.
Arcadia Whisky Lounge
28.8 km
Experience the charm of Arcadia Whisky Lounge in Ormond, where exceptional cocktails meet a cozy lounge atmosphere, perfect for every occasion.
Kimberley Gardens Function Centre
31.1 km
Experience exquisite dining and unforgettable events at Kimberley Gardens Function Centre, a hidden gem in St Kilda East.
Maeve Fox
31.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Maeve Fox, a top-notch bar in Cremorne offering innovative cocktails and a chic venue for all occasions.
