Ashcombe Maze

Just an hour south of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, Ashcombe Maze is Australia’s oldest hedge maze and a whimsical escape into living art. Spread over 25 acres of heritage gardens, this enchanting attraction blends classic maze challenges with serene botanical beauty, making it a perfect day trip for families, couples, and anyone who loves a good puzzle in a gorgeous setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Classic Hedge Maze – Navigate the towering cypress-pine hedges of Australia’s oldest hedge maze, a 1.5-kilometre labyrinth of twists and dead ends that rewards persistence with a central lookout.
• Rose Maze – A romantic circular maze planted with over 1,200 rose bushes in a rainbow of colours, at their peak from November to April.
• Lavender Labyrinth – A fragrant, spiralling path through thousands of lavender plants, best visited in full bloom (December–January) for a sensory treat.
• Children’s Maze – A playful, smaller maze with fun features for little ones, plus a fairy-tale garden and a wooden play area.
• Parterre Garden & Camellias – Formal box-hedge gardens and a stunning collection of camellias (flowering autumn to spring) that showcase the site’s horticultural heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate 2–3 hours to fully explore the three mazes and gardens. Arrive early to avoid crowds on weekends and school holidays, and allow extra time for a coffee or picnic on the lawns. If you’re a keen gardener or photographer, you could easily spend half a day here.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mornington Peninsula – The maze sits in the heart of this food-and-wine region; combine with coastal walks, hot springs, and wineries in Red Hill or Main Ridge.
• Phillip Island – A 90-minute drive southeast, famous for the Penguin Parade, wild koalas, and dramatic coastal scenery.
• Melbourne – The maze makes an easy day trip from the city, or a stop on a longer Victorian road trip.
• Geelong – The gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and the Great Ocean Road, with waterfront promenades and craft breweries.
• Yarra Valley – Head north from Melbourne for world-class wineries, gourmet produce, and hot-air balloon rides.

Please check official sources for current details.