Puffing Billy & Blue Dandenongs

Description

The beautiful garden state of Victoria has many unique natural attractions. Among the very best are the Blue Dandenongs – a series of rolling hills, 35km east of Melbourne. Resplendent with tall groves of Mountain Ash, temperate rainforest and fern gullies covering the mountain floor, the Dandenongs are a cool and restful place. The dense rainforest has two beautiful waterfalls and a number of summits with stunning panoramas, and is home to many native birds and animals. With a number of B&Bs, coffee shops and antique stores, it is no surprise that the Blue Dandenongs remains such a popular place to visit.

Journey through the Blue Dandenongs on board the Puffing Billy – a century old steam train still running on its original track. One of Victoria's most popular attractions, this beautifully preserved open-sided steam train is a delight to ride, transporting you back to a gentler time. Hundreds of dedicated volunteers keep Puffing Billy going, allowing you to enjoy all the pleasures of the Dandenongs as the whistle blows and clouds of steam roll by. Starting off at Belgrave station, just 1 hour outside of central Melbourne, the steam train travels past a number of historic landmarks, trestle bridges and incredible scenery. A return ticket to Lakeside Station (60 minute ride from Belgrave station) allows time to explore the parks, cafes and walking tracks in the township, making this the perfect destination for families. After 1 hour or more of discovering the area, hop on board the Puffing Billy for the journey back to Belgrave Station.

Trip Includes

• Visit the Blue Dandenong Ranges
• Ride on the historic Puffing Billy steam train
• Return train fare from Belgrave station to Lakeside Station (60 minutes one-way)

Duration

• Allow half a day

Departures

• 10am, 11am & 12:30pm
• Return trips depart from Lakeside at 12:30pm, 1:45pm & 2:45pm respectively
• Departs Belgrave station, 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave (1 hour self-drive east of Melbourne)
• Operates daily all year

Other Information

• Bring your cameras for many stunning photographic opportunities
• Child rates apply (4-16yrs)
• Infants under 4yrs travel free as long as they sit on their parents lap