Stay at a romantic glamping retreat with magnificent views. Sample cuisine from South America and travel onboard Puffing Billy Railway. Learn about Emerald's rich history and and soak up the fresh air of the Dandenong Ranges' gardens and villages.
Day 1
Afternoon / evening
Check in at Alkira Eco-Glamping Retreat, located in the enchanting Dandenong Ranges, offers a unique blend of eco-conscious luxury and natural beauty. This retreat provides an ideal gateway to the region's scenic wonders. Guests can unwind in a unique straw bale Yurt, luxurious canvas tent or a cozy cabin designed with sustainability in mind.
Enjoy dinner at one of the local eateries such as Bam Bam Italian in Avonsleigh or Paradise Valley Hotel in Clematis.
Day 2
Morning
Make the leisurely 15-minute drive to the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden in Olinda. A previous winner of the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show in London, the re-creation of the garden is now on permanent display at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.
Afterwards, spend the morning exploring the nearby cafes, restaurants and shops of Olinda, Mt Dandenong or Sassafras.
Afternoon
Travel onboard Puffing Billy from Belgrave and unwind with a majestic three-hour steam train journey as you take in the scenic vista of the Dandenong Ranges to Lakeside station.
Nestled amongst the towering rainforests, cool fern gullies and native flowers of the Emerald Lake Park precinct, the Lakeside Visitor Centre combines its natural surroundings with the authentic sights, smells, and sounds of Puffing Billy Railway to offer guests a cultural hub with world class facilities.
Dine in at the modern café, collect a picnic hamper and explore the walking trails, go swimming (during summer!), hire a bike or jump on a paddle boat in the cool waters of Lake Treganowan, discover steam artifacts in the Lakeside Hall.
Evening
Make your way to Main Street Gembrook, where a modest door leads to a spacious dining room with an open kitchen and sounds of tango.
You'll find a heritage-listed building that was once a motor garage and is the setting for chef-patron Mauro Callegari’s modern Argentinian restaurant The Independent. His Argentinian, French and Italian roots are exemplified in his menu, with local, Argentinian and other international wines found on the beverage list. There is a garden courtyard to enjoy tapas and cocktails.
Day 3
Morning
Check out from Alkira Eco Glamping Retreat and head to Emerald township to eat breakfast and explore the nearby shops. Wander along the ANZAC Walk to learn about this town's rich history. Wave to passengers onboard the first Puffing Billy service as it makes its way through the town, its whistle's unmistakable sound signalling its arrival, before starting your journey home.
Share itinerary
Do you know someone who would love this itinerary? Perhaps you feel inspired and want to keep a copy of it for your records? Sharing it is super easy - simply click on one of the icons below!