An hour east of Melbourne, the pretty village of Olinda is tucked amidst the verdant landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges. Popular with city dwellers eager to unwind in rural tranquility for the weekend, Olinda is home to a number of intimate B&Bs and charming guesthouses. Read on for our list of the best places to stay in Olinda as a couple, or with friends and family.

One of the highest villages in the area, Olinda is deservedly famous for its beautiful flora, and you’ll find no shortage of manicured gardens to discover. The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is wonderful, as are the Cloudehill Nursery and Gardens, and the William Ricketts Sanctuary. This is also an arts hub, with a lively creative scene, including various galleries and annual festivals. Stock up on artisanal pieces at the Touchstone Craft Gallery, visit the Burrinja Gallery or venture further afield to the impressive TarraWarra Museum of Art.

The scenic Dandenong Ranges are criss-crossed with cycling, horse riding and walking tracks, too. Set off to marvel at Australian plants, trees and wildlife, see striking Olinda Falls, or spot rare birds in the Dandenong Ranges National Park. Back in town, you can play a round at the Olinda Golf Course, before cooking up a storm at one of the best places to stay in Olinda, using fresh produce from the farmers’ market.

The Best Places to Stay in Olinda

For a Charming Hideaway

• Cambridge Cottages offers two pretty cottages in flower-filled gardens on the edge of town. Each characterful cottage has one bedroom, and both have cosy sitting rooms with gas fireplaces, kitchens and decks. Relaxed and tranquil.
• Woolrich Retreat is made up of one inviting suite, and a 1920s-built two-bedroom garden cottage. Tucked on five leafy acres, this charming retreat is wonderfully calm. Both spaces have kitchens, private decks, sitting rooms and garden views. For romantics or friends on holiday together.
• A Loft in the Mill, a replica 19th-century mill, has four distinctive suites. Perfect for couples, or groups of friends who can book the whole place, this tranquil spot promises opulent interiors with four-poster beds, crackling fireplaces in cosy sitting rooms, and bold textiles. Continental breakfasts are delivered each morning, and kitchenettes allow guests to self-cater with ease. Private terraces are a nice touch.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Melbourne Airport, and hop in an hour-long taxi to your destination in Olinda. Alternatively, hop in a taxi directly to your destination. Many hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• Olinda and the wider Dandenong Ranges are great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers (December to February) are warm and pleasant, with temperatures hovering at around 26°C. Visit in March or November for fewer crowds and good hotel deals - the region can be very busy during the peak summer months.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Melbourne.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Victoria.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.