Three Spectacular Places to See Wisteria in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

It’s wisteria season and you won’t need to travel to Japan to find it in full, beautiful bloom. Here are three places to see wisteria in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

Just as magnificent as the cherry blossom season, the wisteria blooms to life, filling trellises with long plumes of delicate lavender and white flowers. Not only is it photo-worthy; it’s pretty magical, but be quick, this beautiful season lasts only a few weeks.

Montsalvat, Eltham

Each spring, Montsalvat’s Poolside Terrace is transformed by a breathtaking cascade of purple wisteria. Planted more than 80 years ago beside the Long Gallery, these flowering vines have become one of Montsalvat’s most iconic seasonal wonders.

This fleeting display of violet lasts only two to three weeks, usually from mid September. Whether you come to take photographs, capture the moment on canvas, or simply pause and soak in the beauty, it’s an unmissable highlight of the year.

This year, Montsalvat is offering a Special Wisteria Experience. Guests can pre-book exclusive access to the VIP area directly beneath the canopy—a rare chance to immerse yourself in the blooms and capture the perfect photograph. Purple fairy floss and refreshments will also be available.

Your pre-booked ticket includes general entry to Montsalvat as well as VIP Wisteria access. Tickets are available from 17 September, book yours now!

Coombe Yarra Valley, Coldstream

To fully enjoy the wisteria at Coombe Yarra Valley, book a garden tour to explore the seven-acre gardens and Coombe Yarra Valley Cottage.

Established in 1909, Coombe Yarra Valley is the home of iconic opera singer Dame Nellie Melba.

Designed by William Guilfoyle, the architect of the Victorian Royal Botanic Gardens, the gardens feature a range of rare plants and old-world trees believed to be nearly 200 years old. The gardens are not just beautiful, but regularly provide a romantic backdrop for weddings, private events and lots of photography, especially when the wisteria is in full bloom.

While you’re there, take a tour through Dame Nellie’s beautiful historic home and make a booking to enjoy lunch or an exquisite high tea experience in the restaurant overlooking the garden and landscaped grounds.

Alowyn Gardens, Yarra Glen

Truth be told, Alowyn Gardens are spectacular in every season, but if it’s the wisteria you’re after, you won’t be disappointed. The freestanding Wisteria Arbour structure was specially designed back in 1999 especially for this garden to show off these gorgeous flowers and today it does it oh-so-well.

The arbour beautifully links many of the other gardens together and it’s no surprise that under this floral arch, many couples have said ‘I do’.

The award-winning gardens span seven acres and include nine different styles to explore.

While you’re visiting, take the time to visit the Wisteria Café, sit in the courtyard under the wisteria pergola and explore the fully stocked nursery.