Kinglake

Perched on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, Kinglake is a tranquil bushland escape just an hour from Melbourne. This small town is the gateway to the Kinglake National Park, a landscape of towering mountain ash forests, fern gullies, and dramatic escarpment views. It’s a place for quiet immersion in nature – think misty morning walks, bird-filled treetops, and the scent of eucalyptus. The 2009 Black Saturday bushfires left deep scars, but the regrowth is a powerful testament to resilience. Today, Kinglake offers a low-key, authentic slice of Victoria’s high country, perfect for a day trip or a slow weekend.

Highlights & What to See

• Kinglake National Park – Explore the park’s network of walking trails, from the easy Masons Falls walk to the longer Mt Sugarloaf track, which rewards with panoramic views over the Yarra Valley.
• Masons Falls Picnic Area – A lovely spot for a picnic beside a cascading waterfall; keep an eye out for lyrebirds and wallabies.
• Kinglake Village – The small main street has a general store, a bakery with excellent pies, and the Kinglake Hotel, a welcoming local pub.
• Black Saturday Memorial – A poignant memorial garden and sculpture honouring the 2009 fire victims; it’s a quiet place for reflection.
• Wine and Produce Trails – The surrounding area is dotted with small vineyards and farm gates selling local honey, chestnuts, and berries.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a day trip from Melbourne, which is enough for a short walk, a pub lunch, and a visit to the memorial. To fully appreciate the national park and its walking trails, consider an overnight stay – there are a few B&Bs and a caravan park. A weekend allows you to tackle a longer hike, explore nearby towns, and truly unwind in the bush.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Yarra Glen – Just 20 minutes south, this charming town is the heart of Yarra Valley wine country, with cellar doors, gourmet food, and the famous Yarra Glen Market.
• Healesville – Head east to Healesville for the Healesville Sanctuary (native wildlife) and more wineries along the Maroondah Highway.
• Marysville – A scenic drive north through the national park leads to Marysville, another bushfire-recovery story with lovely waterfalls and alpine gardens.
• Toolangi – A tiny hamlet surrounded by old-growth forest, known for the Toolangi State Forest and the home of Australian poet C.J. Dennis.

Please check official sources for current details.