By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS
THE Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges have so many recreational reserves and great spots for a day out.
Even as the weather gets colder there are many beautiful ways to experience the natural majesty of the Dandenong Ranges and surrounds.
How can someone be expected to know where to experience the best nature reserves these areas have to offer?
With all of the parks beautifully maintained and expertly positioned, making a choice on which ones to visit can be a daunting task. How can one be expected to make such a decision?
Well, now you don’t have to.
Depending on your needs, there are parks out here to suit everyone.
Families with children will love Emerald Lake Park, McKenzie Reserve Adventure Playground and Silvan Reservoir Park. All have playgrounds and barbecue areas with Emerald Lake also having access to Puffing Billy and paddle boats on the lake.
If you have furry children as well as human children then Belgrave Lake Park and Lilydale Lake Park are perfect. Both have huge off-leash dog areas, playgrounds, and barbecue and picnic areas plus both are close to their respective town centres as well.
If you are after adventure and really getting a sense of the scale and majesty of the ranges then you want to check out Lysterfield Park and the Upper Yarra Reservoir Park.
Dogs and pets are not permitted at all at Lysterfield and are only permitted in parts of Upper Yarra Reservoir. Both have extensive waling tracks and offer magnificent views of the surrounds areas plus the Upper Yarra Reservoir also has camping sites for those willing to brave the chill.
There are many other parks and reserves throughout the areas that cater for all kinds of needs so don’t let the winter chill frighten you from experiencing the best of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
