Dandenong Ranges – Perfect for Any Getaway

The Dandenong Ranges are full of fantastic places to visit and sights to see. From natural wonders to boutique shops and restaurants, the Dandenong Ranges are an ideal place to relax and unwind and are only situated just an hour’s drive from Melbourne.

One of the area’s biggest drawcards is the iconic Puffing Billy. This beloved steam train has been in operation as tourist attraction since the 1960’s, transporting passengers through the 25km stretch through the forests and hinterland of the Dandenong Ranges. There’s many special events that run throughout the year, including the daily Steam & Cuisine luncheon and the Dinner & Dance Specials which run on most Friday and Saturday nights. It’s fun for the whole family!

The sheltered hilltop towns of Olinda and Sassafras are another highlight. These quaint little villages, tucked away in the imposing surrounds of the Dandenong Ranges hinterland, are full of art studios, craft stores and boutique nurseries offering a wide range of handmade and home-grown products for you to enjoy. Shopping isn’t the only drawcard – there’s a superb range of food and drink options on offer in the assortment of restaurants and eateries, as well as plenty of places to pull up and have a picnic.

Tearooms are another frequent feature of the Dandenong Ranges and are a great place to relax and take in the scenery.

Whether you’re after a relaxing walk in the forest or a day of shopping and dining at some great establishments, the Dandenong Ranges are for you, and Japanese Mountain Retreat has ideal accommodation if you’re looking to turn your trip into a weekend getaway. Our accommodation is based at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges, allowing you to access all these great features with relative ease – enquire and book today!

Puffing Billy & Japanese Mountain Retreat

The Perfect Weekend

Are you looking to add a bit of excitement to your weekend without having to travel too far away from Melbourne? Combine your stay at Japanese Mountain Retreat Mineral Spring and Spa with an iconic ride on Puffing Billy, you have the recipe for the perfect weekend away!

On most Friday and Saturday nights the Puffing Billy takes a trip to the Nobelius Packing Shed, a beautifully restored, hundred year old venue that hosts live music and dancing on selected weekends. Your trip begins with entrees aboard Puffing Billy’s classic Mount Lyell first class dining carriages as you wind through the mountains to Emerald. Once arriving at the Packing Sheds, you’ll be treated to an array of delicious buffet style dishes, along with a host of live entertainment options to keep you dancing until the nights end.

If you’re interested in this unique experience, why not book your accommodation with Japanese Mountain Retreat, situated just 25 minutes from Puffing Billy. Our  spa provides the perfect setting for you to return and relax in after a long night of dancing and frivolity aboard the Puffing Billy – enquire today to find out more by calling (03) 9737 0086.

Celebrate their special occasion with a memorable present

Japanese Mountain retreat offer great relaxation and accommodation packages suitable for celebrating that special someone

Life begins at 40, as the saying goes. For some people, as each birthday rolls around, gifts can become quite tedious and ordinary. It can be especially challenging to find that ideal 40^th birthday gift for the person who insists that they have everything already, and don’t need anything else. That’s when you need to think outside the box when it comes to 40^th birthday gift ideas – why not buy them an unforgettable experience. 

A 40^th birthday is a special milestone in a person’s life, and they deserve something truly unique. Many of us don’t opt to treat ourselves to a day of pampering, which is why this is the perfect 40^th birthday gift.

TarraWarra Museum of Art

Situated just half an hour from Japanese Mountain Retreat is the TarraWarra Museum of Art, offering a wide range of stunning imagery and cultural entertainment for visitors to enjoy. The Australian Chamber Orchestra will perform three intimate concerts over one weekend at the Museum this March – well worth a visit if you’re staying with us.

There is so much to see and do when you stay at Japanese Mountain Retreat. Enquire with us today about booking accommodation and taking in all the sights and sounds of the area – call (03) 9737 0086.

Celebrate that momentous birthday with an unforgettable present

Turning 50 is that milestone birthday, where it’s all about making your mark in the world, bonding with friends and family, and watching all your hard efforts over the years come into fruition. So your gift needs to be just as meaningful and well-thought out.  Japanese Mountain Retreat offers unique 50^th birthday gifts