Stony Range Regional Botanic Garden

Stony Range Regional Botanic Garden

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Posted 2018-05-10 by Gypsy Rosefollow
In the 1950s, Stony Range was a disused stone quarry, and if it had not been for the few visionary 'green thumbs', the reserve most likely would not have been established. In 2007, this delightful natural attraction became the Regional Botanic Garden of Native bushland, and since then, the has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.



Sitting on 3.3 hectares of Hawkesbury Sandstone escarpment, (hence where got its name from) is a haven filled with Australian native plants and bushland in a natural setting. Making this oasis the perfect family friendly or romantic day outing.



is nestled in the heart of the scenic Northern Beaches, in the urban suburb of Dee Why and offers an array of natural wilderness activities to be enjoyed from its many easy and short walks, picnics and intimate gatherings, including weddings.



There are a few walks to enjoy allowing you to discover intricate walkways which showcase a variety of microclimates and the many native plants from all over Australia that have been planted in the garden alongside local indigenous species.



There are several microclimates that can be found throughout the gardens; the rainforest gully, sandstone heath, and the lush ecosystem of the Federation Cascades.



The Rainforest Gully is regarded as one of Alec Blombery's (one of the garden's founding members) greatest achievements in the reserve. When the botanic gardens were first created, the area along the creek line was infested badly with noxious weeds but today it is a cool oasis filled with cedar, coachwood, flame trees, hoop pine, lilly pilly, ferns and palms.



The Sandstone Heath was part of the stone quarry and was reclaimed with soil fill. Today the exhibit features a collection of grasses, grevilleas and baeckias, creating a scenic floral display at different times of the year.



The Federation Cascades were constructed by volunteers in 2001 to commemorate the 100 years Federation of Australia. Since then, the Federation Cascades have created their own ecosystem and are abound by lush plants and ferns.



Some of the walks in the gardens include the main circuit walk which takes around 20-minutes to complete with "off the track" walking trails along the way and is suited for most fitness levels and all ages. Some walkways are wheelchair and pram friendly, and the side tracks are perfect for the energetic and inquisitive.



The Sensory Track is perfect for people of all abilities, where they can enjoy experiencing the Australian bush like never before!

is truly a delightful Australian native botanic garden and is best experienced during springtime, where vivid colours of the gardens spectacular floral displays begin to 'show off', however, the beauty of the garden is absolutely breathtaking all year round too!



There is a mix of dry habitat and rainforest with many paths to discover and explore (most side-tracks are not suitable for wheelchair, prams and not all fitness levels) and offers many surprising delights, including the cascades and unique rock formations.



The Gardens are also home to a number of wildlife including brush turkeys, bushtailed and ringtail possums, owls, rainbow lorikeets, lizards, and native bees. If you are very quiet and lucky enough, you might be able to spot out an echidna or wallaby!



It is truly a hidden treasure as well as a magical attraction to experience for all ages.

The gardens are well signposted and feature BBQ areas, seats along most paths, water refill stations and toilets.

There is a small carpark outside the gates of the gardens.



#day_trips
#dee_why
#gardens
#nature
#near_sydney
#new_south_wales
#northern_beaches
#outdoor
#picnic_spots
%wnsydney
159689 - 2023-06-14 16:46:09

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