Both Melbourne and Victoria are glorious under the blue summer skies, but when the leaves change their colours in autumn, something simply spectacular happens. Breathe in the crisp autumn air, and travel around the state to admire the dazzling hues. Some of these places are free to visit, while others require an entry fee. But no matter what, you’ll have a marvellous time gazing at autumn leaves in Melbourne and beyond.

Here are the most remarkable places to see autumn leaves around Melbourne and Victoria

Carlton Gardens

The wide pathways, the dramatic backdrop of the Royal Exhibition Building, and towering, shady trees of Carlton Gardens are beautiful at any time of year. But in autumn, this corner of Melbourne is particularly spectacular.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Head to one of Australia’s best tourist attractions, and wander around the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. Stretching out over 38 hectares, there’s plenty of spots for you to take in the striking autumn hues.

Fitzroy Gardens

Fitzroy Gardens has plenty of attractions, including the floral displays in the Conservatory and the historic Cooks’ Cottage. But, the picturesque avenues and brilliant elm trees are an attraction of their own during the autumn months.

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is breath-taking all year round. It features a mixture of native and exotic trees, that transform into gorgeous hues in autumn. On top of that, there’s plenty of bright rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and more interesting plants to admire.

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden

Famous for its ornamental lake and quaint boathouse, the autumn foliage at Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is truly stunning. See the maples and beeches transform into bright hues of red and gold.

Cloudehill Gardens

With an altitude of 580 metres, deep volcanic loam soil and 1.25 metres of rainfall throughout the year, the gardens at Cloudehill flourish. During autumn, the weeping maples and beech trees transform into crimson and gold.

RJ Hamer Arboretum

Also located in the Dandenong Ranges, you’ll find stunning autumn views at RJ Hamer Arboretum. This arboretum has over 150 species of both native and exotic trees, including plantings from the northern hemisphere, such as China and the USA. This large variety creates a spectacular display of colour during the autumn months. When you’re not looking at the trees, gaze out at views of the Yarra Valley and the Great Dividing Range.

Montsalvat

Feel like you’ve left Melbourne for Europe with a visit to Montsalvat this autumn. Located in Eltham, this heritage-listed arts centre was heavily inspired by the architecture of medieval villages in France, as well as Gothic cathedrals in France and Spain. Wander around the property, take in stunning views of the autumn foliage and check out some exhibitions while you’re there. There’s a special Autumn Gathering which will take place on April 6. On this particular day, entry will be free, and you’ll have a chance to explore the grounds and meet with resident artists. See more here.

Seawinds Gardens

Drive up to the summit of Arthurs Seat, and wander through 34 hectares at Seawinds Gardens. With plenty of walking tracks and deciduous trees, this is a great spot outside of Melbourne to admire autumn leaves, without having to stray too far from the ocean.

Bright

It’s all in the name. Every year, the picturesque town of Bright and the surrounding areas become ablaze with colour. For a full celebration of the season, check out the Bright Autumn Festival, which cherishes the splendour of the autumn leaves over ten wonderful days.

Jamieson

Walk around the picturesque town of Jamieson in the High Country, and admire the vast range of trees in autumn. You’ll see beautiful and historic trees, such as maples, elms and poplars. While you’re there, don’t miss the Jamieson Autumn Festival for market stalls and more from April 4 to 6.

Viewfield Garden

The private Viewfield Garden will open to the public for the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival. Pack a picnic, explore the 10-acre space, and admire the vibrant foliage of the trees. You’ll also find other features, like a glasshouse, a fruit forest, a fairy garden and more. This space will be open on weekends throughout the month of April, as well as the Easter long weekend and ANZAC Day. Find out more here.

Forest Glade Gardens

This historic private garden covers almost six hectares on Mount Macedon. There are many magnificent maples, birches, beeches and other exotic trees that transform the gardens with rich hues of red and gold. Forest Glade Gardens is open every day, but if you’re visiting on any weekend or public holiday in April, you must book in advance due to limited numbers. See more here.

Macedon Ranges

Beyond the private gardens, you’ll find plenty of colourful spots around the Macedon Ranges. Don’t miss the stunning Honour Avenue, which shines bright with vivid colours from late March to late April. Marvel at 154 pin oaks as they create a colourful canopy above the road. Then, continue to explore other stunning areas, such as Kyneton Botanic Gardens and Malmsbury Botanic Gardens. Start planning your journey to see autumn leaves here.

Daylesford

Perched on a volcanic hill, Daylesford’s Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens are simply beautiful in autumn. Filled with bright colours and stunning views of Daylesford, these gardens are a lovely spot to visit during the autumn months. For more nature, take a leisurely stroll around Lake Daylesford.

Ballarat

Check out the Avenue of Honour, which stretches out 22 kilometres and is lined with 3771 trees. These deciduous trees, including ash, maple, poplar and elm, transform into bright hues during the autumn months.

While you’re in Ballarat, take a stroll past Lake Wendouree, and see the colours of the heritage oak trees and gorgeous elms reflected in the tranquil waters. Then swing by the Ballarat Botanical Gardens for even more autumn views. If you’d like to really immerse yourself in nature, head a little further out to Creswick to try La Gerche Forest Walk.

The Valley of Liquid Ambers

Settle down for a peaceful picnic surrounded by lush views at The Valley of Liquid Ambers. Close to the centre of Heathcote, this area is full of picturesque views and autumn leaves.

Marysville

Perfect for nature lovers, Marysville is surrounded by lush trees, cheerful waterfalls and native wildlife. In autumn, take a drive along the Buxton to Marysville Road, and see a golden line of towering poplar trees on both sides of the avenue.

TarraWarra Estate

During April, the leaves fall from the poplar trees, creating a vibrant golden carpet. Take some pictures, then head to the TarraWarra Museum of Art for an extra bit of culture.

The Garden at Broughton Hall

These dreamy gardens in Jindivick are glorious in autumn. The space is divided up into 14 key parts that unite into a seamless flow. See it for yourself when they open to the public for the autumn season from Thursdays to Sundays, 10am to 4pm. Learn more here.

Walhalla

Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by trees is the goldrush town of Walhalla. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, as you take in the heritage buildings surrounded by autumn splendour.

Buchan

Buchan in Gippsland might be known for its caves, but it’s got plenty of stuff happening above the ground in autumn. Wander around the heritage town, and admire the autumn splendour of the deciduous trees. Head to Buchan Caves Reserve and have a picnic under a bright canopy of maple and golden ash trees.