Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne: A Celebration of the Australian Landscape

Discover Australia's native flora and landscapes at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, a unique and beautiful garden just outside Melbourne.

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Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne

The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, located 45 km south-east of Melbourne's city center, is dedicated to Australian native plants. It features the award-winning Australian Garden and 363 hectares of heathlands, wetlands, and woodlands, providing a sanctuary for native wildlife and a stunning display of Australian flora.

A brief summary to Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne

Ballarto Road and, Botanic Drive, Cranbourne, VIC, 3977, AU
+61359902200
Visit website

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the walking tracks in the bushland and Australian Garden.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as much of the gardens are exposed to the sun.
Check the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria website for upcoming events and guided tours.
Take advantage of the free shuttle bus from Cranbourne Station for easy access to the gardens.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Cranbourne Station, take advantage of the free Cranbourne Gardens Shuttle Bus, which offers transport to the gardens for community members and tourists. The shuttle is wheelchair accessible and has a baby seat. Bookings are essential; contact the Cranbourne Gardens Visitor Centre to make a request. The shuttle operates daily with limited sessions. Alternatively, you can cycle from Cranbourne Station. Turn left out of the station car park, then turn right at South Gippsland Highway (High Street) and continue for 1.6km. Turn right onto the bicycle track on the right side of the South Gippsland Highway, which leads to Ballarto Road along the edge of the Cranbourne Racecourse. Turn right at Ballarto Road, and the gardens are approximately 4.5km ahead. Cost: Free (shuttle bus).
Driving

The most direct way to travel to Cranbourne Gardens is by car. From Melbourne, drive down the Monash Freeway (M1) and turn off at the South Gippsland Freeway (M420). Follow the signs for Cranbourne and Phillip Island. The next turn-off with signs to Cranbourne and Phillip Island takes you onto the South Gippsland Highway (still the M420). Take this exit and follow the South Gippsland Highway through the town of Cranbourne. On the southern side of Cranbourne, tourism signs point to the turn-off for the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne and the Australian Garden. The gardens are approximately a 50-minute drive from Melbourne's CBD. There is a free car park at the entrance to both the Australian Garden and the Bushland areas. Cost: Free (parking).

Discover more about Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne

The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is a division of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, offering a unique experience centered around Australian native plants and landscapes. Established in 1970 and opened to the public in 1989, the gardens occupy 363 hectares that were previously used for sand mining and military purposes. Today, it stands as a testament to rehabilitation and conservation, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Australian environment. The centerpiece of the gardens is the Australian Garden, opened in 2006, which features a range of exhibition gardens, sculptures, and displays designed to highlight the beauty of the Australian landscape. With over 170,000 plants from 1,700 plant varieties, the Australian Garden offers visitors inspiration for using native plants in their own gardens. Key features include the Red Sand Garden, the Arid Garden, and the Eucalypt Walk, each providing a unique perspective on Australian flora. Beyond the Australian Garden, visitors can explore the natural bushland, which includes 10 km of walking tracks, cycling tracks, and picnic sites. The Trig Point Lookout tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The bushland is home to over 450 indigenous plant species and provides a habitat for native birds, mammals, and reptiles. The gardens also play a crucial role in plant conservation through biodiversity research and programs to protect rare and threatened species. The site is recognized as a site of State significance for flora and fauna conservation, with over 25 species listed as endangered, threatened or at risk of extinction. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including guided walks, tours, and events throughout the year. The gardens are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Christmas Day, and entry is free.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne: A Celebration of the Australian Landscape

A brief summary to Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Driving

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