Bub 2 loved feeding the ducks at the Gardens of Tieve Tara

Lovingly tended gardens are magical places.  The Gardens of Tieve Tara in Victoria’s Mount Macedon goes further for young visitors, inviting them into a fairy garden.  Roaming through the extensive property we found hints of fairy inhabitants – a fairy tree here, fairy toadstools there.  Much of the garden is a traditional Victorian garden, with a large ornamental pond and ducks to feed.  Stunning flowers were still prolific during our April visit, side by side with vibrant autumn leaves.  The touches of fairy life turned a visit to a beautiful garden into a magical memory for my kids, my youngest son asking if he can go back “every day”.

We visited the Gardens of Tieve Tara last weekend on a quest for the best autumn foliage around Melbourne.  Our quest for spectacular autumn leaves was successful however I hadn’t anticipated how much my sons would love the gardens.  There are two playgrounds in the gardens, and ample opportunity for nature play.  These include a huge fallen log turned into a bridge with anti-slip covering and steps to access, children’s tools and boats left near a stream for the kids to play with, and plenty of great climbing trees.

Gardens of Tieve Tara

As well as the traditional English garden there is a ferny rainforest glade (yes the fairies live there too) that brought a contrast to the children’s play and exploration.

This is a garden that, if you bring a picnic to you could spend an entire day in.  It is also a photographers dream.

The story of our own visit to the Gardens of Tieve Tara are best told with photographs however before I share those, some practical information:

The Gardens of Tieve Tara are located at 751 Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon Victoria.

Tieve Tara is open during Autumn and Spring  from 10am – 4pm Monday to Friday and 10.30am – 5pm Weekends and Public Holidays

Autumn dates:1^st of March to the 31^st of May  1^st

Spring dates:  September to the 30^th of November

The entry fee is $8 for adults and children 12 and under are free.

And now for the photos:

Who lives here?

Nature play

We found our autumn foliage

The fairy tree

Love gardens?  You might want to read my own tribute to my father’s garden.

Bubs on the Move provides tips and advice for parents traveling with small children including attraction and accommodation reviews. I’d love for ya’ll to join us on our adventures by either signing up for the newsletter, joining us on Facebook,  Twitter,Pinterest and Instagram to receive updates.

Subscribe to Bubs on the Move's newsletter to keep updated on great places to visit with kids, travel tips and giveaways.

Your information will NEVER be shared or sold to a 3rd party.