Local Attractions
Puffing Billy
The historic Puffing Billy railway is just 10 minutes from the Cuckoo.Kids and adults alike love the ride that puffs through the fern gullies and Mountain Ash rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges.
Grants on Sherbrooke
Wander on one of the many bush walks and work up an appetite for the delicious food here at the Cuckoo – less than 10 minutes away.
National Rhododendron Gardens
Just a couple of minutes from the Cuckoo, the National Rhododendron Gardens are host to brilliantly coloured blooms of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, cherries and daffodils.Seasonal changes ensure the gardens are a delight all year around.
William Ricketts Sanctuary
William Ricketts Sanctuary is a place of beauty and tranquillity, due both to the natural setting and the mystical sculptures half hidden among ferns along the pathways. It is a place for quiet reflection and for contemplation of the essence of the vision of William Ricketts. Just a few minutes’ drive away, it’s a great place for a gentle walk before or after dining at the Cuckoo.
George Tindale Gardens
This historic private garden contains a number of plants rarely found in cultivation, which are thriving in the acidic soils, cool temperate climate and shaded conditions found in the Dandenong Ranges. Extensive collections of magnolias, rhododendrons, camellias, azaleas, fuchsias and hydrangeas will delight garden enthusiasts. Around 5 minutes away this garden offers a delightful stroll before or after a meal at the Cuckoo.
Alfred Nicholas Gardens
The many linking paths through this garden take you beneath a canopy of awesome Mountain Ash trees down to the picturesque lake and quaint boathouse. Please note this garden has steep paths. Around 5 minutes away this is a good choice to walk off a yummy meal at the Cuckoo.
Cloudehill Nursery & Gardens
(includes Diggers Club retail outlet) A visit to Cloudehill is a must for garden enthusiasts. Cloudehill provides inspiration throughout the seasons; from spring bulb meadows, summer perennial borders and dramatic autumn foliage. Just a few minutes’ drive away from lunch, afternoon tea or dinner at The Cuckoo.
Karwarra Australian Plant Garden
Established in 1965, Karwarra is one of the few public gardens where native plants are used exclusively, giving visitors the opportunity to see how they can be used effectively as part of a landscaped garden. Less than 10 minutes’ drive from the Cuckoo Karwarra has a well-stocked plant nursery and staff can assist with plant selection.
Tesselaar Tulip Festival
(seasonal – 20 minute drive) Close to Melbourne, through the enchanted forests of Mount Dandenong, is where you will find the spectacular Tesselaar Tulip Festival, in the town of Silvan. Arrive early and gather your family, and friends together for a fabulous morning among the Tulips followed by a welcome lunch booking at the Cuckoo.