By Derek Schlennstedt
Take the time to be in the outdoors and feel the difference.
Play spaces can be the ultimate in a family day and can help both kids and their parents wash the worries of the week away.
We all know that fresh air, stunning views, amazing wildlife and spectacular gardens all make for an entirely wonderful adventure, and luckily the Dandenong Ranges is home to some of Melbourne’s best playground areas.
Once a golf course, that closed in 2012, the new playspace in Olinda is a boon to the area and is well worth the trip into the hills.
With a spectacular setting, lots of activities and equipment for kids to play on, stunning views across the Yarra Valley, and a Coffee van, Olinda playspace is the perfect spot for the entire family.
There is a lovely mix of wooden structures, natural rocks and colourful slides and soft fall rubber matting, which makes it playful but still fits in with the natural surrounds.
When it comes to equipment, this park has it all. There’s fun slides, swings and swinging baskets, a large rope climbing area, in-ground mini-tramps, a cubby house, roundabout, and water play are leading into a small creek. You can even climb on a giant lizard.
For those seeking a cooler setting off the mountain, Emerald Lake Park has plenty to offer.
Considered a major tourist attraction in the Dandenong Ranges, Emerald Lake Park is Cardinia Shire’s premier park and has something for everyone.
With paddleboat rides, a model railway display, café, free barbeque facilities, and Puffing Billy station, Emerald Lake Park is great for an early afternoon picnic with the kids.
Emerald township is just around the corner and the bakery offers a large assortment of sweet treats and savoury snacks.
Olinda Playspace is located at 75-77 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda and Emerald Lake park is at Emerald Lake Rd, Emerald.
