Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Garden is a sanctuary for over 50,000 thousand plants, covering an area that’s over 90 acres. The property is made up of scenic lawns, a tranquil lake and diverse collections of plants; there are also several restaurants and walking paths throughout the park, along with a litany of interesting activities for visitors to do.
An Aboriginal Heritage Walk
Long before Europeans settled Australia, the land belonged to the ancient aborigines – at the Royal Botanical gardens, you can get a glimpse of what their lives were once like. Under the supervision of an indigenous guide, you can learn how to create smoke signals and uncover the traditional uses of various local plants.
Visit Guilfoyle’s Volcano
Don’t worry, this volcano is full of water, not lava! In fact, this reservoir acts as a crucial source of water for many of the park’s plants. Several low-water-dependent plants such as cacti and succulents surround the structure and add to the ambience. There are several boardwalks around here as well from which you can enjoy an unobstructed view of Melbourne’s skyline.
Garden Exploration
If you’re staying in one of the nearby hotels in Melbourne, Australia, such as the Pan Pacific Melbourne, consider booking a guided tour of the gardens – after all, it’s free! If you’re travelling with a large group, consider booking a bus tour; this informative 30-minute drive even includes a bit of birdwatching.
Take a Boat Cruise
You can take a traditional punting cruise on the Ornamental Lake that lies at the heart of the gardens. The boat ride is an excellent way to spot some elusive avifauna and unique aquatic plants. Once the ride is over, you can head over to the terrace overlooking the lake and relax with a refreshing cup of tea.
