Overview
Whether you're an avid green thumb or a weary traveller looking for a quiet place to relax, the Grampian's leafy parks and lush botanic gardens offer a place to relax and get close to nature.
Colours of spring
Visit in spring to fully engage with the floral wealth of the region. Get to know your gum trees at the Peter Francis Points Arboretum in Coleraine, home to 500 different species of eucalyptus. Visit a wildflower farm at Wartook Gardens and see over 1,000 species of Australian plants, or join in flower and gardening festivals, celebrating everything from orchids and geraniums to native wildflowers.
City and country
Wander along the winding pathways that take in green lawns, cactus gardens, lakes and floral displays in the Hamilton and Horsham botanic gardens. Enjoy a picnic by the water and spot the similarities between these gardens and Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens, all designed by botanist William Guilfoyle.
Private views
Australia's pre-eminent landscape garden designer Edna Walling has had a hand in many of the private and public gardens across the region. Springtime offers a chance to visit some of the many private gardens, which open to the public at the end of winter.
Chinese heritage
Delve into the rich Chinese heritage of the Grampians region on a wander through the Avoca Chinese Garden, named the Garden of Fire and Water by Chinese-Australian artist Lindy Lee. Located in the historic sale yards next to the town's first Chinese burial site, the garden hosts seasonal celebrations, festivals and tai chi sessions.
Be advised, some private gardens open their gates once or twice a year as part of the Australian Open Garden Scheme. For further details visit opengardensvictoria.org.au
