Winter in the Macedon Ranges

It was a treat to swap out the camper trailer for a cosy cabin to herald the start of winter 2025 in the stunning Macedon Ranges. As it happened, it also rained for several days, so it was nice to return from our adventures each day to a hot shower and log fire! The State of Victoria desperately needs rain, so it was a pleasant addition to our experience. Armed with puffer jackets, raincoats, waterproof pants, beanies, gloves and boots, we made our way through some beautiful landscapes and enjoyed the local food and wine scene.

Cosy Cabin

Our mountain retreat was at Braeside Mount Macedon set on 27 acres of parklands, gardens and native bushland. We stayed in the cosy cabin with views of the gardens and situated next door to a couple of friendly alpacas - Sydney and Anzac - who enjoyed a handful of cut hay each morning. The fields beyond were dotted with kangaroos, enjoying the winter rain and the promise of fresh, sweet grass. A beautiful breakfast hamper was supplied each morning including homemade granola, yoghurt, eggs straight from the hen house, bacon and freshly baked bread. Our host, Andrew, was delightful and provided some great information to help us enjoy our stay in the region.

Gorgeous Gardens

After a leisurely breakfast we enjoyed a walk around the Farmers Market at nearby Woodend, and then a visit to one of the grand gardens that Mount Macedon has to offer. Our choice was Forest Glade Gardens. These stunning gardens are now managed by a registered charity and are kept open for the public to enjoy. They consist of a series of lawns, plants, shrubs, trees and gardens set over acres of undulating land with influences from Europe, America, Japan, Australia and other nations. Many of the trees are deciduous, so the colours were sensational, especially the maple leaves covering the paths and lawns. The gardens are dotted with eclectic sculptures that enhance the landscape and the overall experience. To make it easier for our readers, the images have been divided into sections.

Japanese Garden

This section was truly beautiful, not only for its design and layout but for the choice of plants and trees delicately intertwined with sculptures and water features. The foliage created a beautiful late Autumn hue and a sense of calm and tranquility.

Fern Glade

We descended from the main lawn and garden section into a steep gully, populated with towering native mountain ash trees and lush green ferns. A tribute to the natural beauty of the Australian mountain landscape.

Grand lawns, gardens and sculptures

The remaining images are of various garden sections througout the property, many of which have a distinctly European influence. We managed to capture a few shots of an Eastern Spinebill feeding on nectar.

Hanging Rock

No visit to the Macedon Ranges is complete without a walk around the famous Hanging Rock. We did the circuit walk around the base of this amazing granite outcrop, surrounded by eucalypt forest. We decided to have our 'picnic' in the cafe with lovely hot coffee and soup.

Coming up - some winter camping on the Murray River and a spring visit to Winton Wetlands, followed by a birding trip into the Victorian Mallee.