If you want to feel like a child again, visit the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden. The hillside forms a natural amphitheatre surrounding several springs. You’ll find the garden covered in gorgeous fauna, sectioned into various culturally-themed garden “rooms”. There are bridges to cross, scents to inhale, colours to admire and many lovely places to rest. Keep an eye out for birds and waterfalls too. Although there are indeed rhododendrons aplenty, chances are that you’ll find your favourite flower somewhere in the garden. We loved walking through the wisteria archways!
We were told that we would need about three hours to see the entire garden. I don’t doubt that this is true as there are many small pathways and areas to explore. It is possible, however to have a quicker visit. If you have less time, head to the Chinese and Japanese gardens first. Make sure that you have a look at the lakes on your way there and back. You might like to ask the staff in the Tearoom for their recommendations too, which will vary according to the season.
Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden is particularly picturesque in Autumn or Spring. In Spring, you can expect to see living colour everywhere! We visited in late October and the gardens were in full swing. It was incredibly beautiful! You’ll enjoy a magnificent floral display anytime from mid-September to mid-November. I have seen photographs of the gardens in Autumn too and the deciduous trees look resplendent in their yellow, orange and red hues. If you want to know what to expect to see in a particular season, have a look at the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden website here.
What to Bring
I highly recommend bringing a picnic with you to the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, particularly when the garden is in full bloom. You will want to spend as long as possible in your favourite part of the garden so taking a rug and a spread of food with you would be an excellent idea! You can purchase food from the Tearoom overlooking the garden if you prefer. If you have young children with you, do be aware that the lakes are not fenced. You will find places to settle in for a while that are away from the water features though. As always in Tasmania, wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. On a hot day, I recommend visiting earlier in the morning as you will have to walk up and down the hillside to see the garden.
Getting There
From Burnie, drive for just over ten minutes towards Romaine via Mount Street or Old Surrey Road until you reach Ridgley Highway. It’s a twisting-turning route through backstreets to the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden. It is well signposted though (including on the way out). When you arrive at the gardens proper, you’ll pass through two gateways, one that is open and one that wallaby-proofs the gardens. The second gate will automatically open as your car approaches. Winding down the hill, I was impressed with the flowers and the scenery but it’s just a small taster of what’s to come! You’ll find ample parking at the end of the driveway.
Cost
You’ll pay $12 per adult and $10 per concession to visit the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden. When you see the enormous amount of work that has gone into establishing, maintaining and extending the gardens, you’ll understand what a bargain that is! I certainly would gladly pay the entry fee again, just to see the garden in a different season. The Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden is open daily (excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday) from 9am – 5pm with the Tearoom open from 10am – 4pm (closed from Christmas to New Years’ Day). Enjoy!
Staying a while? Visit other attractions on the north west coast or on the not-too-distant west coast.