Doongalla Picnic Ground, The Basin

In 1892 a 32 room mansion was built and sadly burnt down 40 years later. All that remains is the stone steps that were the grand entrance to the homestead. Sounds a little eerie doesn’t it?

What was once a magnificent mansion, is now the most peaceful and picturesque picnic ground.

Doongalla Homestead Picnic Ground is in the Dandenong Ranges and is considered the quieter alternative to 1000 Steps.

Doongalla is said to mean “place of peace’ and I have to agree. It is still, quiet and you can even hear yourself think. It is the perfect spot for a picnic with plenty of flat ground for the little ones to run around. Shaded by stunning trees and views of the Dandenongs, what more could you want?

The gardens are beautifully maintained, Mamma’s 1yr old was having a wonderful time admiring all the flowers, while her 3 yr old was very keen on adventure walks!

There are two levels to this picnic ground with the option to park the car at either. The walk between the two is steep but not impossible. The same can also be said for the bush tracks that you will find nearby. We have completed The Stables Track, which connects the two picnic zones, but it sure is steep in parts. You have been warned!

There is even a fireplace there- be sure to bring your own wood though.

There is also the stables picnic ground which you will come across first, continue up the road to get to Doongalla Homestead. The carpark is above the picnic ground and is a bit of a steep walk down.