Boasting unparalleled views over greater Melbourne, SkyHigh Mount Dandenong is the perfect way to cap off a wonderful weekend in the Yarra. Unfold the picnic blanket and fire up the barbecue, or pull up a seat at the SkyHigh Bistro and soak in the spectacular vistas from one of the best vantage points in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
While the uppermost reaches of the Dandenongs are at their best when the afternoon sun bathes the horizon in hues of gold, SkyHigh's surrounds are stunning at any time of day. From here, you can see the urban fringes of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, Port Phillip Bay and the granite ridges of the You Yangs. By night, the outlook is blanketed in a sparkle of city lights.
If you can tear your gaze away from the expansive Victorian panoramas, there are plenty more things to see and do atop the mountain. Kids will love exploring the SkyHigh Maze, filled with secrets and sculptures to stimulate their little minds, and can even become a "maze master" by stamping their provided passport along the way. The quirks continue with the Australiana Tree, Percy Possum's House, the Giants Chair and the Wishing Tree – like something straight from a nostalgic novel.
The sweeping gardens at SkyHigh Mount Dandenong are no stranger to weddings and special celebrations and it's easy to see why, with pebbled creeks, reflective ponds and quaint bridges, masses of roses, azaleas and a veritable feast of foliage. Speaking of feasts, don't forget to treat your tastebuds to a classic Sunday roast lunch followed by afternoon tea of fresh scones, jam and cream and bottomless tea and coffee.
SkyHigh Mount Dandenong was established as a survey point more than 150 years ago. Today, the revamped space is a favourite for fine dining, contemplative strolls, landscape photography and getting some perspective away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city – with a side serve of cake and coffee, of course.
