Sherbrooke Forest Tours and Activities

Sherbrooke Forest which includes rainforest
Sherbrooke Forest which includes forest scenes
Sherbrooke Forest which includes forest scenes
Sherbrooke Forest showing forest scenes
Sherbrooke Forest featuring a garden


Walk amid ancient mountain ash forests and rest at shady picnic spots in this national park, where you might glimpse a lyrebird as it dashes through the undergrowth.

Sherbrooke Forest is the largest tract of bushland in the Dandenong Ranges National Park, extending across over 1,976 acres (800 hectares) of Melbourne’s leafy east. The forest is home to vast stands of mountain ash, the world’s tallest flowering plant. Walk along picturesque trails and discover the range of native plants that grow in the mossy gullies and forested hillsides. Spot local wildlife, including cockatoos, parrots and the elusive lyrebird, or rest under a canopy of native trees at one of the forest’s scenic picnic areas.

Known to the local Aboriginal people as Corhanwarrabul, the Dandenong Ranges encompass careening hillsides of ancient eucalypt forests. Much of the Dandenong forests were used as timber reserves from the late 19th century until the region was protected in 1987. Explore Sherbrooke Forest’s magical nature trails and discover the vast diversity of plant and animal life that thrives in the region.

Begin your walk from one of the picnic grounds in the park. O’Donohue Picnic Grounds and Sherbrooke Picnic Grounds are nearest to the pretty cascades of Sherbrooke Falls. Wander through mountain ash stands and tree-fern glades to reach the waterfall and return within an hour.

Grants Picnic Ground provides the starting point for three interpretive trails, one of which is suitable for wheelchairs and prams. The longest and most challenging trail loops around eucalyptus forests and rocky ridges. Bring some snacks to enjoy as you rest at the shady picnic tables. Grants Picnic Ground has a kiosk that sells snacks and drinks, as well as seed to give to the local birdlife at the bird feeding area.

Listen out for the fascinating mimicry of the lyrebird, a magnificently plumaged and rarely seen bird that copies natural and mechanical sounds in its environment. While it commonly mimics the calls of other birds, it has also been known to make chainsaw and camera shutter sounds.

Sherbrooke Forest is a 5-minute drive northeast from Belgrave in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Maps, barbecue facilities and restrooms can be found in Sherbrooke Forest’s three major picnic grounds. The park is free to enter and open daily.

Plan a trip to see Sherbrooke Forest

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CitiClub Hotel Melbourne
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Melbourne Corporate Stays – Docklands Waterfront

Popular places to visit


Top Sherbrooke Forest Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Kallista Boutique Apartment

Kallista Boutique Apartment

Kallista
Kallista Boutique Apartment
Escape to Nature Retreat: Relax, Connect & Unwind at Sherbrooke Forest.

Escape to Nature Retreat: Relax, Connect & Unwind at Sherbrooke Forest.

Tecoma
Escape to Nature Retreat: Relax, Connect & Unwind at Sherbrooke Forest.
Grey Gum Getaway.  Close to Puffing Billy & the wedding venues of the Dandenongs

Grey Gum Getaway. Close to Puffing Billy & the wedding venues of the Dandenongs

Tecoma
Grey Gum Getaway. Close to Puffing Billy & the wedding venues of the Dandenongs
Belgrave Bed and Breakfast

Belgrave Bed and Breakfast

3.5 out of 5
11 Monbulk Road, Belgrave, VIC
Belgrave Bed and Breakfast
Juniper & Rye - The idea for the cottage came from pioneer cottages we had visited in rural Victoria.

Juniper & Rye - The idea for the cottage came from pioneer cottages we had visited in rural Victoria.

Ferny Creek
Juniper & Rye - The idea for the cottage came from pioneer cottages we had visited in rural Victoria.
The Stone On The Hill - This is a contemporary 3 bedroom home with high ceilings, a coonara log fire and central heating.

The Stone On The Hill - This is a contemporary 3 bedroom home with high ceilings, a coonara log fire and central heating.

Kallista
The Stone On The Hill - This is a contemporary 3 bedroom home with high ceilings, a coonara log fire and central heating.
Stone on the Hill - Families & Groups

Stone on the Hill - Families & Groups

2 out of 5
43 Perrins Creek Rd, Kallista, VIC
Stone on the Hill - Families & Groups
Captivating and Unique Tudor Inspired "Gingerbread house"

Captivating and Unique Tudor Inspired "Gingerbread house"

Kallista
Captivating and Unique Tudor Inspired "Gingerbread house"
Elliott Lodge - family & pet friendly

Elliott Lodge - family & pet friendly

3.5 out of 5
1 Elliott Rd, Upwey, VIC
Elliott Lodge - family & pet friendly
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sherbrooke Forest

Sherbrooke Forest offers a tranquil escape for tourists, with stunning sunrise views and serene meditation areas. Visitors can explore various walking tracks that wind through the lush landscape, providing a perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Nearby activities enhance the experience, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges.

Shopping

For shopping in Sherbrooke Forest, visit Cream at Sassafras, just 3.2km away for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Westfield Knox and Caribbean Gardens Chair Lift, both 11.3km away, offer a mix of entertainment and local vibes perfect for souvenir hunting.

Recreation

Head to Sherbrooke Picnic Ground for a serene escape, enjoying nature and picnicking among towering trees. For a more active experience, Emerald Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails and tranquil lakeside views, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Embark on the 1000 Steps Kokoda Walk, a scenic hiking trail located 4.8km from Sherbrooke Forest, where you’ll immerse yourself in nature. Explore the Tree Fern Gully Track, another beautiful hike also 4.8km away, offering lush surroundings and adventure vibes. For water sports, visit the Australian Rainbow Trout Farm, located 8.0km away.

Nightlife

Enjoy a night out at the Drum Theatre, offering a mix of entertainment and culture just 16.1km from Sherbrooke Forest. For something more adventurous, head to Delta Force Paintball or World Series Paintball, both 22.5km away, where you can dive into exhilarating family-friendly activities.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Sherbrooke Forest

When visiting Sherbrooke Forest, you'll find a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore the beautiful reserves, enjoy the ambiance of modern college campuses, and relax in urban parks. Whether you’re after a nature escape or a vibrant city vibe, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy in this charming area of Melbourne.

  • Puffing Billy Steam Train: Experience the charm of this historic steam train as it chugs through lush forests and picturesque landscapes. The journey offers a nostalgic glimpse into the region's rich railway heritage while immersing you in the serene beauty of Victoria's countryside.
  • Dandenong Ranges National Park: Explore the adventure-filled trails, towering trees, and stunning scenery of this national park. Perfect for hiking, picnicking, and spotting wildlife, it’s an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Monash University: Wander through the vibrant campus of this modern university, known for its innovative architecture and lively atmosphere. Enjoy the dynamic city vibes, art installations, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a delightful spot to relax and soak in the local culture.

Best time to go to Sherbrooke Forest

The best time to visit Sherbrooke Forest is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July48.9°F (9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sherbrooke Forest

To save money on your trip to Sherbrooke Forest, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to June or August, and aim to book your stay on a Monday for the best rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting results from lowest to highest price, and explore eco-certified options for a sustainable stay. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Take advantage of free activities in the forest, and use public transport for affordable travel around Melbourne.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sherbrooke Forest are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sherbrooke Forest is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Sherbrooke Forest is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you a list of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Sherbrooke Forest hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.