Winter is over and warmer weather is starting to brighten our days. Right now is a really wonderful time to get your walking shoes on and go for a stroll around the
Mt Lofty Botanical Gardens.
Rhododendron Gully Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens (paula mcmanus)
There are 7 gullies in the Gardens and the Rhododendron Gully has well and truly sprung to life - colours are in bloom everywhere and the next few months are an ideal time to visit. At their peak, the whole gully is alive with vibrant pinks - making for a breathtaking sight.
Rhododendron Gully Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens (paula mcmanus)
The Mt Lofty Botanic Garden has some of Australia's best collections of
rhododendrons. Rhododendron means "rose tree" in ancient Greek. The rhododendrons at Mt Lofty grow in amongst an impressive range of Chinese trees and shrubs. Their colours range from bright yellow to fire engine red and everywhere in between and the petals have pretty patterns and lines.
Rhododendron Gully Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens (paula mcmanus)
There are numerous walking trails - around every corner is something beautiful - something so pretty it will take your breath away.
As well as rhododendrons, you'll see the magnolias, camellias and roses in bloom. Grab a self-guided tour booklet and park map from the entrances and enjoy the sunshine and the flowers.
There are no cafe or dining facilities in the Mt Lofty Botanical Gardens, but it's a perfect spot for a picnic!
Rhododendron Gully Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens (paula mcmanus)
Mount Lofty, at 727 metres, is Adelaide's highest "mountain" and is located just 20kms from the Adelaide CBD. There are many trees and plants growing in the cooler climes of the garden's 98 hectares that normally are not normally found or are suited to the Australian climate.
Cost:Free entry
Car parking:
There is ticketed parking at the Gardens (very cheap though) and parking on Sundays and public holidays is free.
Opening times:Monday 8.30am to 4pm
Tuesday 8.30am to 4pm
Wednesday 8.30am to 4pm
Thursday 8.30am to 4pm
Friday 8.30am to 4pm
Saturday10am to 5pm (10am to 6pm daylight saving)
Sunday 10am to 5pm (10am to 6pm daylight saving)
Please note: The Garden is closed on days where the fire danger rating is severe, extreme or catastrophic.
Facilities:
Access With Assistance for the Disabled
Car park
Coach Parking
Parking for the Disabled
Picnic Area
Public Toilet
Shaded Area
Sheltered Area
Toilet facilities for the Disabled
Viewing Platform
Walking track
Rhododendron Gully Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens (paula mcmanus)
The garden has two major entrances. Both have car parking and toilet facilities. The lower entrance is flatter and is an easier walk.The summit entrance leads to walking trails which are steep and get the heart pumping.
