Originally inhabited by the Boonwurrung Aboriginal people, Cranbourne has evolved from a small country town into a bustling suburb of Melbourne. It’s home to an Australian native garden that’s managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and a variety of recreational facilities, as well as newly-developed arts and multicultural community centres.

Things to do

Spend an afternoon strolling through the Cranbourne Gardens, a 363-hectare property that forms part of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. It specialises in Australian native plants, with its wetlands, heathlands and woodlands providing vital habitat for rare and endangered flora and fauna. Soak up the 360-degree views across the Australian Garden from the top of Gibson Hill before following one of the walking trails that lead through the surrounding bushland.

In the far north of the suburb is the Cranbourne Golf Club, which features an 18-hole course designed by Sam Berriman. It’s considered one of the best-conditioned golf courses outside of the Melbourne Sandbelt, with fast greens, meticulously manicured fairways and 82 bunkers that will challenge players of all skill levels.

Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to the playground at the Cascades on Clyde Wetlands, which centres around a bird-filled lake. You can stroll along the boardwalks to spot ducks, take advantage of the soft bicycle track or enjoy a picnic lunch in the barbecue area. There’s plenty of grassy lawn where you can kick a ball around, as well as an off-leash area for dogs to run free.

Getting there

Cranbourne is around 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Melbourne and one hour from Melbourne Airport. The Cranbourne railway line terminates at Cranbourne Station while several bus services connect to the surrounding suburbs. Much of Cranbourne is both bike and pedestrian-friendly.