travel

66 comments

1. 66 Gwen
   Aug 2nd, 2008 at 4:37 pm

   Beautiful, relaxing and serene landscape where you can unwind right in the middle of the city. If you feel more energetic, go for a brisk walk or jog around the iconic tan! A true Victorian treasure!

2. 65 Nicola
   Jul 31st, 2008 at 12:29 pm

   We love the Botanic Gardens and love to spend hours there with the children under the beautiful canopy’s and wandering the facsinating trails.

3. 64 Karen
   Jul 30th, 2008 at 2:18 pm

   Just an awesome place for everyone of all different ages…

4. 63 gary
   Jul 30th, 2008 at 1:21 pm

   luv the accessbility it’s so well kept and clean.
   nice toilets.

5. 62 Betty Chapman
   Jul 28th, 2008 at 9:38 pm

   As for so many other people, thegardens for our family are a very special place. They have provided a tranquil haven and a play-space for three generations of us, and always a place of great pride to take our overseas visitors to. So many lovely, happy lunches - and one time, my husband and I took our young daughter on a summer evening ‘picnic’ and we were almost the only people there and it was as if the whole garden was ours, quite magical. Every time we go, there is something new to look at, while all the old favourites are still there. Thankyou to the gardeners!

6. 61 Nick
   Jul 28th, 2008 at 2:58 pm

   A great place to take the kids

7. 60 Irwin
   Jul 28th, 2008 at 2:33 pm

   Why can’t my plants from just as well as the RBG’s ones???!!!!!

8. 59 Naomi
   Jul 28th, 2008 at 2:00 pm

   This is a fabulous “free” place to visit. There is always so much to see and do no matter what time of year it is. There are lot’s of walks and programs eg. the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, Night Sky Tours held in the Observatory, Chocolate and Spice Tours, Tunes in the Trees for children - there is always so much happening!

   It has a real emphasis on conservation and education too.

   A highly recommended destination for both locals and interstate/overseas visitors.

9. 58 Debs
   Jul 27th, 2008 at 8:25 pm

   Perfect place to have a picnic, get married, see a movie, get a coffee or just go for a walk.

10. 57 Floris
    Jul 27th, 2008 at 12:55 pm

    The minute I step into that wonderful place I breathe a sigh of enjoyment and relief. It’s another planet, so good for the soul.

11. 56 Kiah
    Jul 25th, 2008 at 12:08 pm

    An oasis in the concrete jungle. The beautiful Botanic Gardens in South Yarra has been a favourite meeting point for Melburnians for over 160 years!

    Blessed with the extraordinary vision and foresight of it’s early superintendents and directors, the Melbourne Gardens has become one of the world’s pre-eminent botanic gardens.

    A majestic overarching tree canopy, wonderful topography creating natural amphitheatres and vistas, and tens of thousands of well-tended plants create a unique outdoor experience in one of Australia’s most cultured cities.

    You can enter the Gardens from any number of perimeter gates and truly enjoy getting lost in the atmosphere and botanical richness of each special area.

    The award winning Children’s Gardens and recent Tropical House redevelopment are just two of the exciting projects drawing in more and more visitors and school groups each year. Combine these with the upcoming Volcano redevelopment and this Botanic Garden is sure to surpass it’s already strong reputation for excellence in reaching out and engaging with the community.

    Melbourne Gardens - a place where people take pleasure in their visit, and staff take pride in their work.

12. 55 Julz
    Jul 24th, 2008 at 7:38 pm

    Natural beauty!!!!

13. 54 Maggie
    Jul 24th, 2008 at 9:36 am

    Royal Botanical Gardens are beautiful, natural and timeless. We all can appreciate the care given to their upkeep and embrace nature’s creation when we visit.

14. 53 Meg
    Jul 24th, 2008 at 9:17 am

    Stunning vista’s and great to find nature so close to the city.

15. 52 Judy
    Jul 24th, 2008 at 7:40 am

    A special part of Melbourne that all visitors will enjoy.

16. 51 Phil
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 9:27 pm

    One of the world’s great botanic gardens - and it’s been in Melbourne since 1846! Tranquility, wonderful landscapes, generations of happy family memories, all in the heart of the city.

17. 50 David Leydon
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 5:51 pm

    The RBG is, by far, my favourite relaxation venue in Melbourne. After many a long hour spent in the office or on the road during the week you need a place to go to make life seem simple, peaceful and beautiful.
    That’s what I get when I go to the RBG.

18. 49 Edward
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 5:41 pm

    My uncle is the Director.

19. 48 Linda
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 5:30 pm

    a fantastic place to visit for a break from the rat race!

20. 47 Rebecca
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 4:53 pm

    Our family has many memories of picnics on rolling lawns, with gorgeous vistas. There is a sense of removal from the bustle of the city, yet we are right in the heart of Melbourne. Moonlight cinema is great too.

21. 46 Karen Stott
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 4:36 pm

    Its just such a beautiful place!!!

22. 45 Rodger E
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 4:22 pm

    The RBG Melbourne is really one of the top 10 Botanic Gardens in the world.

    It is regarded as one of the best examples of a 19th Century Romantic landscape.

    We should treasure such a wonderful Botanic Garden and we need to appreciate it as a marvellous place for people of Victoria and Australia.

23. 44 Gill
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 3:31 pm

    Spacious, gracious and inspiring. Always rewarding for the great combination of current and historical plantings, diversity of species and its immaculately maintained setting. I’ve been to many botanic (& other) gardens around the world, and the Melbourne ones always remains my favourite.

24. 43 Angela
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 3:08 pm

    The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne are a contrast to our busy lives. A lost world. It gives us an opportunity to reassess our values and what is really important. Connecting with nature and beauty. And entry is still FREE!!

25. 42 Rod
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 2:30 pm

    great spot to hang out

26. 41 tim wall
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 2:29 pm

    it just great to go somewhere green.

27. 40 Rosalyn McDonald
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 2:27 pm

    My favourite place in Melbourne! You can sit and relax here, enveloped in the gardens. Then, when you are ready to leave there is the wonderful walk along the river to return you to the buzz of city life.

28. 39 Helen R
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 1:47 pm

    A place that hasn’t changed much since I was a child, brings back lovely memories of being a Girl Guide and taking a Brownie Pack for a day out and the brownies rolling down the grass slopes full of fun and laughter.

29. 38 Helen Brown
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 1:03 pm

    I simply love the Gardens. An oasis of tranquility in a thriving city. A place of great beauty where one can immerse themselves in beauty and nature. In summer, there is the magic of Moonlight Cinema and Shakespeare in the Gardens. In winter you have the soft misty beauty of the falling leaves and the tranquil lake

30. 37 Ali H
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 12:47 pm

    The most beautiful historical Botanic Gardens in the world, it’s also leading the way in water conservation and helping to protect our planet. And it’s free!

31. 36 Matt J
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 12:39 pm

    The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is one of Victoria’s iconic attractions.

    The stunning vistas throughout the Gardens along with the brilliant plant collections are a real treat for visitors.

    The tourism award-winning Gardens Shop is a must visit as are the two Cafes and the fabulous Children’s Garden.

    Some great tours including the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, Chocolate and Spice walk and Night Sky tours through the Observatory and the fabulous Moonlight Cinema, Gardens Markets and summer Theatre are all well worth a visit!

32. 35 Sam
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 12:30 pm

    It’s one of Melbourne’s treasures, an oasis amongst the concrete jungle!

33. 34 Dave
    Jul 23rd, 2008 at 12:21 pm

    One of the best gardens in the world and a fantastic oasis in the middle of Melbourne.

34. 33 Fiona Cost
    Jul 13th, 2008 at 6:04 pm

    A reminder of how we would like the whole world to be.

35. 32 Keith Pescod
    Jul 11th, 2008 at 6:53 pm

    For generations of our family, the Royal Botanic Gardens has been a rich treasure and quiet retreat, a playground to our children, and source of admiration to our visitors.

36. 31 Mary B
    Jul 10th, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    The Gardens always lift your spirits with their beauty and peacefulness. The Children’s Garden provides fun and learning for all ages.

37. 30 wilma hannah
    Jul 9th, 2008 at 1:14 pm

    World famous gardens,beautiful throughout the year,the Royal Botanic Gardens must be one of Melbourne’s most valuable assets.There is no charge for admission and staff are very helpful.A visit to the Gardens can be as as active or relaxed as the visitor chooses,and there is a special garden where younger children love to play.Ease of access is another plus for the Royal Botanic Gardens: just a short walk up from St.Kilda Rd. , and opposite the Shrine of Remembrance, visitors will find the main entrance and the delightful and practical Visitors’ Centre.Few cities can offer such serenity and beauty so close at hand.

38. 29 Geoff Hare
    Jul 6th, 2008 at 4:34 pm

    The Royal Melbourne Botanical Gardens is an essential place where we can ALL escape the stress of our working lives and reflect on where we actually are. It is a place for absorbing an environment that is clean, educational, free, healthy and much much more.
    It’s superb collection of plant displays is a highlight - my favourite is Long Island with it’s diverse selection of indigenous plants that is Melbourne, the Bell Minors think it’s a treat as well. I discover something different on each visit.

39. 28 Elizabeth
    Jul 4th, 2008 at 9:21 am

    A beautiful, tranquil place to wander, learn and chill out. And it’s FREE!

40. 27 Ashley r
    Jul 3rd, 2008 at 5:50 pm

    To find such a beautiful and quiet spot in a never sleeping city is an absolute pleasure.
    A gem that must be retained.

41. 26 Bruce Peebles
    Jul 3rd, 2008 at 4:33 pm

    I love the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne because they are beautifully maintained,have a very wide range of flowers, trees and bushes. there is also a magnificent variety of Wildlife. My family has enjoyed these gardens for many years and used to have picnics there on a regular basis at the weekend, and still do although not on as a regular basis. It gives a very peaceful and serene time to relax with the Family after a hectic week of work and allows the whole Family to relax and casically get back to nature. I think it is a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city and suburbia, even though the Gardens are on the edge of the city. The History of the Gardens is also very important because there is so much heritage in the gardens in regard to the very old Buildings which have been excellently maintained in original condition. It is also pleasing to see and talk to many overseas visitors in the Gardens and getting as much pleasure and enjoyment as my Family and myself do.

42. 25 Adrian Linke
    Jul 3rd, 2008 at 4:08 pm

    The Royal Botanic Gardens- Melbourne are a wonderful calm oasis to escape from the pressures of everyday life.

    Adrian

43. 24 Ann
    Jul 3rd, 2008 at 3:32 pm

    A wonderful place in the centre of the city. Especially visit the Ian Potter Childrens garden…

44. 23 Virginia
    Jul 3rd, 2008 at 11:12 am

    A wonderful oasis (especially during a drought) in the middle of the City. A not to be missed experience when visiting Melbourne.

45. 22 Ann Murnane
    Jul 2nd, 2008 at 2:39 am

    A visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the quintessential Melbourne experiences and is a ‘must do’ for all Victorians as well as for interstate and overseas visitors. Even for locals who have lived within cooee of the Botanics for decades, every visit brings some new discovery - something in bloom you’ve never noticed before, a family of fluffy grey cygnets having swimming lessons, the everchanging city skyline viewed from the Temple of the Four Winds. The Gardens’ central location makes it the perfect place to meet a friend for coffee or lunch, to stretch your legs and get some fresh air, to have a picnic with family and friends. And there’s always something more - a movie at the Moonlight Cinema, a walk back in time with an indigenous tour guide, something Shakespearean, Ratty and Mole messing about in boats, truly something for everyone.

46. 21 Adrian Jackson
    Jun 26th, 2008 at 9:35 pm

    The title should be corrected to the right name which is “Royal Botanic Gardens - Melbourne”. Most of the comments so far have got the correct name - well done. I agree the RBGM is one of the best of the great 19th century gardens of the worlds and I have seen many of them in the UK, Europe and Asia. I live 5 km from the CBD in Middle Park and it is possible to walk through Albert Park Reserve and the RBGM all the way to the Yarra River and the southern CBD edge.

47. 20 Lesley Wallace
    Jun 16th, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne (RBGM) are glorious at all times of the year. Located walking distance from the city, they offer an oasis of landscaped beauty, with lakes, mature trees and plants from all over the world. Whether you have an interest in history, botany, gardening, wildlife, or just being out in the fresh air, there is a depth of information and experiences available.

48. 19 jill williams
    Jun 16th, 2008 at 11:51 am

    Visit RBGM with free guided walks at 11am and 2pm Tuesday to Sunday

49. 18 Robert
    Jun 14th, 2008 at 9:27 am

    A beautiful ever changing environment where you can sit and relax and marvel at the rare and exotic plants, and see the vistas created by 2 great men with vision -Baron Ferdinand Von Mueller and William Guilfoyle. Take one of the free guided walks and discover more about it’s little secrets - offered twice every day. Booked walks and special interest tours also available.

50. 17 Dan B
    Jun 13th, 2008 at 3:07 pm

    In the middle of a busy city lies an oasis of calmness, serenity, beauty and romance…. aaaah…..the Royal Botanical Gardens

51. 16 Jenny Lang
    Jun 13th, 2008 at 2:19 pm

    38 hectares of landscaped gardens and lakes, many collections, children’s garden, 2 cafes, 2 shops

52. 15 Prue Clark
    Jun 13th, 2008 at 2:18 pm

    Ian Potter Children’s Garden
    The children’s garden provides an inspiring garden design to take the young and the young at heart into a variety of worlds - the rainforest ruins - a flax tunnel - a bamboo forest - a rill to float leaves down- and the frog pond. A place to relax and let the children go and develope their own pretend games while the adults watch or join in.

53. 14 Mary Ward
    Jun 12th, 2008 at 4:24 pm

    The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne provide a haven away from the stress of modern life, so close to the city and yet with so many beautiful places to sit and marvel at the foresight of the people who, over 150 years ago, had the vision to create such a place for future Melbournians and tourists to enjoy - a panacea for the soul.

54. 13 Scott Kerr
    Jun 12th, 2008 at 3:23 pm

    One of the world’s great Botanic Gardens.
    Always something of interest to see; free tours available for those who want to learn more about the gardens.

55. 12 maggie
    Jun 12th, 2008 at 2:36 pm

    The Royal Botanic Gardens provides the perfect ambient to connect with oneself and / or family whilst the IPF. Childrens Gardens is a magical delight for the young ones .

56. 11 Lea Levy
    Jun 12th, 2008 at 2:12 pm

    No matter how many times you visit, there is always something new to observe and learn.

57. 10 Graham Ryan
    Jun 9th, 2008 at 2:41 pm

    I never tire of wandering the paths of these wonderful gardens, admiring the many fine botanical specimens. They are a tribute to the foresight of our ancestors and those who carry on their work today.

58. 9 Peter Logan
    Jun 9th, 2008 at 1:31 pm

    I have been to many Botanic Gardens around the world and ours are certainly outstanding. Melbourne’s parks and gardens are going to be more important for our health in future, for many reasons. They are also a delight for tourists.

59. 8 Andrew
    May 28th, 2008 at 6:48 pm

    Another must see in Melbourne and one of the best in Australia. Relaxing and great for the soul.

60. 7 Tom Crawford
    May 24th, 2008 at 7:26 pm

    An oasis in the busy City and truly wonderful.

61. 6 Sally Erickson
    May 20th, 2008 at 1:11 pm

    I voted for the Botannical Gardens as it is so beautiful when you walk through. I find it amazing that over 100 years ago, someone thought to include such a great place in our city.

62. 5 Meg Law
    May 19th, 2008 at 11:09 am

    The Gardens Market
    Visit over 100 stallholders selling unique botanic themed products in Melbourne’s beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens.

    Live music, gourmet food and nature provided - what more could you ask for!

    The Gardens Market is on the Second Saturday of each month from September to May.

63. 4 Adam
    May 18th, 2008 at 3:01 pm

    For a walk or a picnic, when you can find a quiet spot.

64. 3 John Barrett
    May 17th, 2008 at 12:49 pm

    The Botanic Gardens are a wonderful green oasis in a large city, open to all.

65. 2 Michaela
    May 16th, 2008 at 5:13 pm

    I’ll never forget the first time I saw the Royal Botanic Gardens. It was about 7:30am on a Spring morning and the mist was rising from one of the lakes over the lawn. A couple of swans were roaming on the grass.

    It was just beautiful and a memory I will treasure for a long time. The gardens remain a favourite place of mine, especially for a summer picnic.

66. 1 Mel Sutherland
    May 2nd, 2008 at 2:21 pm

    Peace, beauty, birds.