Winterfest
Winter Magic
IN THE EASTERN DANDENONG RANGES
RUG UP AND LEAVE THE CITY BEHIND TO EXPERIENCE ALL THAT THE HILLS REGION HAS TO OFFER. FROM MENZIES CREEK TO MONBULK, BELGRAVE TO GEMBROOK AND EVERYWHERE IN-BETWEEN, WONDERS ABOUND FOR. THE DAY-TRIPPER AND THE VACATION VISITOR ALIKE.
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EVERY SEASON IN THE EASTERN DANDENONG RANGES BRINGS ITS OWN KIND OF MAGIC, AND WINTER IS NO EXCEPTION.
There is nothing better than waking up in a cosy cottage, luxury accommodation or farmstay with a warming fire in the grate, walking outside to catch the scent of freshly baked bread drifting through the rainforest air, a lush green scene from the balcony punctuated with the clear ring of bird calls.
Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty – majestic mountain ash eucalypts towering over a quivering carpet of fern trees, steep cascading forests that plunge into natural gorges or part to reveal glimpses or sky and distant mountains – the Eastern Dandenong Ranges forms the gateway from Melbourne to a diverse range of some 20 townships, each with something special to offer travellers.
The Puffing Billy historic railway wends its way from Belgrave to Gembrook, disappearing between tracts of untouched forest and re-emerging in charming villages or rolling farmland. For a limited time, Puffing Billy will light up the dark with the visually stunning Train of Lights running between 23rd June – 9th July.
Between Clematis and Gembrook, you can jump on the 17 km Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail and walk, cycle or ride alongside the trainline. Enjoy scenic drives, beautifully curated gardens, walking and hiking trails, horse riding,\ picnic spots, family-friendly parks, country markets, arts, culture and history attractions. Savour delicious local foods prepared in a variety of styles at one of The Hills region’s many restaurants and cafes.
Book in for an agriculture experience at a u-pick farm and take home produce fresh from the source. Discover the delights of the Dandenongs’ fresh produce at the trout farm, or growers producing nuts, olives, truffles and mushrooms, as well as small boutique wineries.
Be entertained by a diverse range of artistic performances at venues across the region. Musicians, bands and amateur theatre groups perform throughout the year, with artists coming from near and far to showcase their talents.
And of course, a trip to the Eastern Dandenong Ranges isn’t complete without exploring the village shops and meeting the locals, to send you home smiling.
For more information on what to see and do in the region, jump onto the Eastern
Dandenong Ranges website at easterndandenongranges.com.au
For events happening across the Victorian School holidays, from 24th June to 9th July,
visit whatsoncardinia.com.au/winterfest
Image Pulling Billy Lights by Tracy Dasler #tracylandscapes
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BABAJI’S KERALA KITCHEN
We take you on a journey to a land of palms & spice, tropical Kerala South India. ‘School holiday fun…Indian style!’ Take the kids on a mini trip to South India… right here in the Dandenong Ranges! Have them trying new foods, eating with their fingers on banana leaf and dancing to our Bollywood tunes! Open all day for lunch & dinner, stop in before you catch the Train of Lights! (Closed Wednesdays)
1/1644 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave 3160
T: 8288 2982
w | babajiskitchen.com.au
e | info@babajiskitchen.com.au
f | BabajisKitchen
TINKARS CORNER
Tinkars Corner (formally The Apple Pot) has been the little local giftshop and part of the Emerald community landscape for over 30 years. With loads to choose from, Tinkars Corner caters for all budgets and gifts for young and old, ranging from modern and Hamptons to Traditional and country. We have anything from plants and pots to kid’s toys, jewellery, candles, ornaments, lamps, and plenty more.
Shop 7, 5-7 Kilvington Dve, Emerald 3782
T: 0448 763 606
w | tinkarscorner.com.au
e | tinkarscorner@outlook.com
f | TinkarsCorner
BAM BAM ITALIAN
A family-friendly Italian restaurant celebrating the Italian spirit of fresh, seasonal fare, friendly hospitality, and offering extensive dietary-friendly menus. Boasting a covered playground, is wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly. Located near popular attractions, including Puffing Billy and the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Rail Trail, they offer Monday Locals Night, Wednesday Pizza Palooza, and Thursday Lasagna Night. Visit their website, and sign up to enjoy a free dine-in pizza!
445 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Avonsleigh 3782
T: 5968 4717
w | bambamitalian.com.au
e | eat@bambamitalian.com.au
f | bambamitalian
CLOUD VIEW GARDEN
A blissful place to find your space. The breathtaking winter misty views over Cardinia Reservoir are as magical as the luxury you’ll find yourself lost in a Cloud View Garden Retreat. Within whistling distance of Puffing Billy Railway at Menzies Creek, let us spoil you with a surprise picnic basket including champagne with any two-night stay booked in June & August.
32 Selby-Aura Rd, Menzies Creek 3159
T: 0418 373 717
w | cloudviewgarden.com.au
e | mark@cloudviewgarden.com.au
i | cloud_view_garden
INCY WINCY
A grab-and-go coffee hatch offering super-friendly service and dietaryfriendly food. Enjoy fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, pastries, and treats. Indulge in hot chocolates, smoothies, and refreshing drinks. Don’t miss Tuesday Doughnut Day (vegan and gluten-free available). Grab a seat inside or out, or take it away. Online ordering is available. Explore nearby Puffing Billy playground, Nobelius Heritage Park, and Pepi’s Land off-leash dog area. Browse lifestyle stores while you wait for your coffee!
Shop 12, 5-7 Kilvington Dve, Emerald 3782
w | incywincy.com.au
e | eat@incywincy.com.au
f | incywincyemerald
THE GENERAL FOOD STORE
This welcoming brunch cafe is known for its friendly service, delicious, dietary-friendly menu, and kids’ menu. Using seasonal ingredients from local and Victorian food regions, operating ethically and sustainably. Indulge in their famous Arabesque, waffles, salads, burgers, baguettes, and delectable treats. Enjoy indoor or outdoor seating, a heated courtyard, and dog-friendly dining. Takeaway available online. Nearby attractions, Emerald Lake Park, Puffing Billy, and Cardinia Reservoir.
377 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Emerald 3782
T: 5968 3580
w | thegeneralfoodstore.com.au
e | eat@thegeneralfoodstore.com.au
f | thegeneralfoodstore
SIGNAL BOX BED & BREAKFAST
A perfect retreat in the hills of Gembrook. Experience the earth-walled ambience and cosy wood fire, just 30 metres from the Puffing Billy line. You will hear the Train of Lights tooting at the level crossings before you see the stunning lights and the billowing steam in the frosty night air. Signal Box is the perfect winter stay.
39 Station Rd, Gembrook 3783
T: 0407 681 680
w | signalboxbedandbreakfast.com.au
e | info@signalboxbedandbreakfast.com.au
f | SignalBoxGembrook
KIKI & FINCH
Kiki + Finch is a boutique located in the heart of Emerald that brings you the kind of fashion that makes you look and feel confident and beautiful all day long. Everyday clothing, footwear and accessories for the everyday woman. With a relaxed atmosphere and stock changing weekly, Kiki + Finch offers a delightful shopping experience for local shoppers as well as those visiting our beautiful town.
354 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Emerald 3782
T: 0402 625 489
w | kikiandfinch.com.au
e | hello@kikiandfinch.com.au
f | kikiandfinch
AVOCA PARK EQUESTRIAN
Experience the thrill of horseback riding at Avoca Park Equestrian! Discover a world of excitement as we offer dynamic lessons for all ages and skill levels. Unleash your inner equestrian with fun school holiday activities and camps, exhilarating pony parties, accommodation and holiday packages, top-notch horse training, and unforgettable educational clinics. Join us for an adventure-filled journey into the captivating world of horses.
411 Tschampions Rd, Macclesfield, 3782
T: 0422 561 126
w | avocapark.com.au
e | info@avocapark.com.au
f | AvocaParkEquestrian
THE RAILWAY DOG
Nestled in the heart of Emerald, The Railway Dog Tavern takes it’s name from Jerry the Railway Dog. Jerry’s life was one of adventure, he would spend his days riding another local legend “Puffing Billy”. Enjoy wine, craft beers with a pizza or a snack. Weekly live music and entertainment with amazing views of the hills we live in.
5/329-331 Belgrave-Gembrook Road,
Emerald 3782
T: 0482 624 634
w | therailwaydog.com.au
e | info@therailwaydog.com.au
f | TheRailwayDog
BEHIND THE TREES
Behind The Trees is a lifestyle store overflowing with bright colours and bold patterns. We truly believe in not taking life too seriously and having our homes reflect that. Right next door is our sister store The Little Tree Store – kids + baby boutique, only stocking the highest quality for your little ones. The two stores have carefully curated a collection of unique, high-quality Australian brands, you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift every time.
Shop 11&12, 5-7 Kilvington Dve, Emerald
03 59683585
w | www.behindthetrees.com.au
f | behindthetrees
TREAT YOURSELF EXPERIENCES
A Treat Yourself Experience is an experience to ignite all your senses. Designed for couples, friends & small groups, our bespoke experiences are designed to immerse you in the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and all the region has to offer. Mystery picnics, sip & paint a canvas embracing our Aboriginal culture & symbolism, basket weaving, a nip & sip trail, or let us help you to design your own experience.
0419 584 498
w | treatyourselfexperiences.com
f | TreatYourselfExperiences