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The Dandenong Ranges
Why not spend the day in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges? There's so much to see and do - walking, cycling, riding vintage steam trains, cafes and galleries. Located just a one hour drive or train ride from the hotel, the beautiful Dandenong Ranges have something for everyone.
CYCLING
Whether you prefer roads or trails there are plenty of cycling options in The Dandenongs. For road enthusiast there is plenty of opportunity to get out and ride some beautiful roads. The famous '1 in 20" is a favourite among Melbourne cyclists who like a little bit of elevation but not too much. The climb starts from the beautiful township of The Basin where there is ample parking and cafes - the climb goes for 6.8 kms at a very manageable 4% gradient.
For those who like an off road adventure The Dandenong Ranges are filled with well kept fire trails that are perfect for mountain biking - a little further afield is the awesome Lysterfield Park with 20 km of trails designated for mountain bike trails including the 6.3km State Mountain Bike Course - home of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games cross country mountain bike competition.
WALKING
If you're up for a Fitness Challenge then why not try the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, or as it's known to the locals "The 1000 Steps". Easily accessible by train from the Upper Ferntree Gully Station the walk is the opportunity for many to test their fitness with the choice of taking the stairs or the Lyrebird Track to the side (alas just as steep but no stairs). There are other less challenging walking trails to enjoy and plenty of wildlife to see - be on the lookout for : sulphur crested cockatoos, bright red rosellas, cockatiels, wallabys and lyrebirds.
FOLLOW THE TRAIL
If you have your own transport take the opportunity to follow one of the self guided trails put together by our good friends at "Visit Dandenong Ranges", there is something for everyone with trails including:
- Art Trail
- Cool Climate Gardens Trail
- Top Views Trail
- Top Family Experiences Trail
- Top Picnic Spot Trail
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