Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Dr, Cranbourne VIC 3977
Most Melburnians and visitors to this city know a visit to the Melbourne Botanic Gardens will always be a fantastic afternoon. Fewer people know of the Cranbourne version, and although that's a shame the upside is a trip here can feel like discovering a fantastic secret tucked away in the city's south-eastern suburbs.
Although these gardens in Cranbourne offer the same 'wow' factor as a walk through the city version, there's also sufficient differences between them to ensure even if you walk through the Melbourne offering each day on your way to work, you'll still love a visit here for the differences it holds, and the diversity of those differences.
At its heart, the Cranbourne grounds features a real emphasis upon Australian horticulture. Of course, Australian examples are still found across Melbourne's grounds, but here it's easy to spot a distinctive plant like a Eucalyptus tree or bottlebrush tree that exemplifies Australian fauna, and the concentration of so many of these native plants within one place is sure to a special treat for Australian and overseas visitors alike.
The info cards make enjoying and appreciating the Gardens easy for all.
As well as their beauty, the grounds are also very easy to navigate and appreciate. The site has easy walkways throughout meaning accessibility and enjoyment of the site is possible for all. There is also an abundance of info cards throughout, ensuring even someone who arrives with little-to-no knowledge of greenery shall be able to admire and appreciate what's being showcased.
Alongside the plants themselves, the grounds are beautiful to walk and feature a cafe, gift shop, and gorgeous lake that offer a place to make a pitstop out the sun and recharge the batteries.
The Gardens' beautiful lake is worth a trip for in and of itself.
All in all Cranbourne's Botanic Gardens are always an outstanding place to pay a visit. Be sure to do so soon whether it's your first time or a return trip.
