In the heart of Yarra Junction, Victoria the Blue Lotus Water Garden covers 14 acres (56,000 square metres) of seasonal flower displays. One of Australia’s top tourist attractions the garden is a must see with its exotic blooms, tropical water gardens and lily ponds.
Garden History
The Blue Lotus Water Garden started as a small project to educate visitors about aquatic plants, especially sacred lotus and waterlilies and has grown into one of Australia’s favourite seasonal display gardens. Its founder [founder’s name] wanted to create a peaceful retreat where people could get lost in nature and learn about plant conservation and care. Over the years, the garden has expanded to include the Flower Fairy Garden, Lotus Lake and Japanese Water Garden, each with its own special experience for visitors.
As word got out about the flower water gardens the garden became one of the top tourist attractions in the Upper Yarra Valley. Today it’s a site of botanical interest and a place where families, photographers and tourists can relax among the ponds with lilies, lawns and many Australian attractions.
Featured Attractions and Displays
Sacred Lotus and Waterlily Collection
One of the garden’s most impressive features is the vast collection of sacred lotus and waterlilies with many species of water lilies from around the world. During the summer months visitors can see literally thousands of waterlilies and lotuses in bloom. These flowers growing in the ponds with lilies and water gardens are the heart of the garden’s displays.
Among the highlights are the Amazon Waterlilies with leaves up to 3 meters in diameter and the famous Claude Monet Waterlily whose colours and shapes are like the famous French artist’s paintings. As you wander through the seasonal gardens you’ll be mesmerised by the colours and variety of water plants including the giant lily one of the largest in the world and the tiny mini lily species.
With over a dozen ponds full of these magnificent water plants it’s no wonder the garden is called Garden Heaven. Every visit is different with the current water lily season offering new blooms and colours each year. The sacred lotus a symbol of purity and rebirth is another highlight where visitors can see these stunning lotus flowers rising from the murky waters.
The Flower Fairy Garden: A Real Treat
For families and kids the fairy garden (also known as the Flower Fairy Garden) is a must see. This whimsical area is full of interactive bits and bobs for kids to get up and get involved with nature. Themed around fairies the garden has fairy statues, colourful flower displays and hidden nooks for kids to explore and learn about the flowers and ecosystems.
The Flower Fairy Garden is a great way to introduce kids to nature in a fun and imaginative way. As kids wander through the floral water garden, they are surrounded by bright, exotic blooms and playful features that will spark their curiosity. Whether they’re following fairy trails or posing with statues, it’s a real treat for kids, so the Blue Lotus Water Garden is a top pick for family days out.
Japanese Water Garden: Peaceful Haven
A visit to the Japanese Water Garden is a peaceful experience for those who want to chill out. This serene area of the garden is designed using traditional Japanese landscaping techniques with koi ponds, stone lanterns and bamboo groves. The calm waters of the koi pond reflect the surrounding trees and bridges and is a photographers dream and a perfect spot to sit and reflect.
The Japanese Water Garden is a favourite spot for visitors looking for a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you want to learn more about Japanese gardening or just want a quiet spot to sit, you’ll find both beauty and calm in the Blue Lotus Water Garden.
Lotus Wetlands and Lotus Lake
One of the best walks in the garden is through the Lotus Wetlands, which leads to the magnificent Lotus Lake. As you walk along the boardwalks, you’ll pass fields of stunning lotus flowers with massive pink blooms towering above the water. The combination of the lush green leaves and the soft pink of the lotuses in bloom is a photographer’s paradise.
The Lotus Lake itself is a peaceful haven surrounded by greenery and native plants. Visitors can sit by the stunning lake and enjoy the sounds of the water and take in the beauty of the largest lake in the garden. During peak bloom the lake is covered in lots in bloom and it’s like a sea of pink floating on the water.
Lake Bridge Walk and Yarra River Trail
The Lake Bridge Walk gives you views of the lakes and ponds in the garden and is a favourite among visitors. There are plenty of photo opportunities and quiet spots to sit and take in the water. The path also leads to the Yarra River Trail, where you can take a longer walk along the river through the Yarra Valley.
Picnic Areas and Dining
The Blue Lotus Water Garden is a family friendly garden with plenty of facilities to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. There are lots of picnic areas, dozens of picnic huts, picnic shelters and many picnic tables throughout the garden. Whether you want a secluded spot to eat a quiet meal or a larger area for a family gathering there are lovely picnic spots for every need.
If you prefer a more private dining experience, the Garden Cafe is where you can relax and eat with stunning views of the floral display gardens. The café serves light meals and refreshments and is the perfect place to stop after a morning of exploring the garden. Families will love the range of options available, including food and drinks for all ages, kids and teens included. With plenty of water and heaps of food choices, it’s a great place to refuel.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The Blue Lotus Water Garden is a place of ever changing beauty so it’s a must see destination every season. But the best time to visit is during the current water lily season which is from December to April. This is when the garden is at its peak with thousands of sacred lotus and water lilies in bloom.
Blue Lotus Water Garden Admission Ticket
You can purchase the Blue Lotus Water Garden – Admission Ticket online or at the entrance. The ticket includes access to all areas of the garden, gardens and lotus flowers and all the themed sections.
Plant Nursery and Gift Shop
The Plant Nursery and Gift Shop is where visitors can pick up a piece of the garden to take home. Stocking plants, gardening tools and souvenirs for the seasoned gardener and the new one.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Blue Lotus Water Garden?
December to April is the current water lily season, so that’s the best time to visit.
Are there picnic facilities?
Yes, we have plenty of picnic grounds with many picnic tables, dozens of picnic huts and lovely spots.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes! We have family friendly attractions like the Flower Fairy Garden and family activities for all ages including teenagers.
Is the garden wheelchair friendly?
Yes, we have thought of mobility with the design and have accessible paths and facilities for all.
Can I buy plants from the garden?
Yes, the Retail Plant Nursery and Garden Shop has a range of plants, including native waterlilies and other lovely plants for your home garden.
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