William Ricketts Sanctuary – a true delight (Australia)
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William Ricketts Sanctuary is located in the Dandenong Ranges (Victoria, Australia) and is a place that feels truly magical. The sanctuary has 92 clay sculptures lovingly created by William to celebrate and reflect his deep love for nature and Indigenous Australians.
Flowing pathways gently guide you through the sanctuary past the sculptures. You feel enveloped in ferns and eucalyptus trees with the moist air filling your breath.
Sculptures blend into the rocks and surrounding environment which creates an air of discovery. William achieved this blending of sculptures with nature by taking plaster casts of each rock. He then modelled the clay to fit the rocks perfectly. Afterwards the clay sculptures were fired in a kiln at 1200oC and placed in the forest scene. This detailed process and the care taken by William makes it feel as though the sculptures are the custodians of the sanctuary and you are sharing their space.
Parks Victoria maintain William Ricketts Sanctuary and entry is free.
Note: William Ricketts Sanctuary is currently closed following storm damage. Updates can be found on the Parks Victoria website.
What to expect
Williams Ricketts Sanctuary is exactly that – a sanctuary. A quiet, still, peaceful place to wander and reflect. Paths guide you around the sanctuary past the sculptures and to the gallery and old kiln building.
Cost
Entry to William Ricketts Sanctuary in the Dandenong Ranges is free and there is no charge for car-parking.
Getting there
Self drive
Self-drive is the easiest option for visiting William Ricketts Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located on the Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Mount Dandenong in Victoria, Australia. Drive time is around 50 minutes from Melbourne.
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Public Transport
Whilst driving the easiest option, it is possible to take public transport to Willian Ricketts Sanctuary. From Melbourne, take the train (Belgrave Line) to Upper Ferntree Gully which takes around 1 hour.
Then catch the 688 Croydon-Upper Ferntree Gully bus. There is a bus stop at Williams Ricketts Sanctuary and it will take around 25 minutes. Please ensure you check the Public Transport Victoria website for current timetables and information.
Tours
Alternatively, arrange a private tour from Melbourne with a reputable provider.
Looking for something more unique? Why not take a tour from Melbourne to the Dandenong’s in a classic ’56 Chevrolet . Now that is cruising in style!
How long to stay
Allow at least 1 hour for your visit to William Ricketts Sanctuary.
EXPLORE | William Ricketts is one of many free gardens in the Dandenong Ranges. See the dedicated blog post here.
Tips for visiting
A few tips for visiting William Ricketts Sanctuary:
Drive safely – the roads are windy with many blind corners
Car parking – the carpark is across the road from the main entrance and the driveway might be hard to see.
Family travel – William Ricketts Sanctuary is a manageable size which makes it great with smaller children. The sanctuary is small, cozy and easy to walk around so you don’t need too much bribery to get around!
Food and drink – no food and drinks are allowed in the Sanctuary, which also means no picnics.
No touching – As tempting as it is, the sculptures should not be touched.
Wear sturdy shoes – the paths can be slippery.
When to visit
The Dandenong Ranges can be visited at any time of the year. If possible, visit on a weekday when the villages are quieter.
I am someone that gets out in most weather conditions and dresses for the climate. However, I do suggest avoiding the Dandenong Ranges on really hot days when the fire risk is elevated, or if there are active fires in the area. The area has experienced bushfires which take hold quickly in the steep vegetated terrain.
PLAN | The Dandenong Ranges are in the state of Victoria which has a varied climate. Read this post to see which time of year would suit you best.
What to bring
Ensure you wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for your adventure.
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Where to stay
The Dandenong Ranges are known for cosy Bed and Breakfast (BnB) style accommodation which makes you relax instantly. Somewhere I have always wanted to stay is the popular A Loft in the Mill Olinda which is a replica 19th Century English Flour Mill in the heart of Olinda.
Hotel style accommodation can be found in surrounding towns such as Ferntree Gully and Lilydale. Whilst you might not get the Dandenong Ranges vibes staying in a hotel, they are cheaper and only a short drive to the gardens. The Nightcap at York on Lilydale is excellent.
Accommodation options are also detailed on the main tourism website.
Things to do nearby
There is so much to do in the Dandenong Ranges! Visit playgrounds, flower festivals, visit plant nurseries, admire art galleries, catch the Puffing Billy scenic train, explore every village, eat, drink and eat some more…the list goes on!
Final thoughts
My love for William Ricketts Sanctuary is eternal and I highly suggest you add this special place to your Dandenong Ranges itinerary.
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