A wander through the Royal Botanical Gardens

It struck me the other day that after my house and my Mum’s house, I spend the next largest chunk of my time in and around the Royal Botanical Gardens in Melbourne. About 8 years ago I started botanic art classes. Classes are held in the Whirling Room in the Observatory complex at the top end of the gardens. Now I go to weekly art sessions, but more about that in a later post.

A couple of months ago I started doing volunteer work at the Herbarium, which is also up that top end of the gardens. (Near the Shrine, if you know the gardens.) And more about that in a later post too.

I have been walking in the gardens between the art session and my time at the Herbarium. The gardens are a real Melbourne treasure and I thought you would like to join me on my wanderings through them.

The RBG was designed in the mid 1800s and has those iconic features of broad, sweeping lawns, ornamental lakes and views to the city.

The tower of Government House

Victoria’s Government House overlooks the gardens. It is a spot enjoyed by lovers too!

There is a wonderful fern gully and newly planted bamboo forests, and some whimsical topiary near the Children’s Garden.

We have had some very wintery weather in Melbourne lately. Because of the gale force winds on Tuesday the gardens were closed. I thought it would be the Autumn leaves providing the only colour…..

…..so I was surprised by the flowers that were out.

Lastly, I wish you could smell this Wintersweet bush. The perfume stopped me in my tracks, but I had trouble finding the insignificant flower that was smelling so heavenly.

Thanks for wandering with me. You have to admit, there are many worse places to spend time!