Mount Dandenong Observatory + William Ricketts Sanctuary – A Journey Through Views and Spirit

#mytraveldiary #september2025 #australiatrip High above Melbourne’s eastern fringe, Mount Dandenong Observatory offers some of the most sweeping views in Victoria. On a clear day, you can see the city skyline shimmering in the distance, framed by rolling ranges and lush forest below. It’s a place where perspective shifts — the bustle of the city feels far away, replaced by endless horizons and crisp mountain air. Whether you’re here at sunrise, when mist lingers in the valleys, or at sunset, when the sky glows amber and rose, the outlook is nothing short of spectacular. Just a short drive away lies a very different kind of wonder: William Ricketts Sanctuary. Hidden within a ferny forest, this sanctuary feels less like a park and more like a spiritual retreat. Over 90 mystical clay sculptures — Aboriginal elders, animals, and symbolic figures — emerge from mossy rocks and tree trunks, blending seamlessly into the natural landscape. Created by artist William Ricketts, the sanctuary reflects his deep respect for Aboriginal culture and the interconnectedness of people and nature. Walking through its winding paths is both contemplative and inspiring, as if the forest itself is whispering stories of harmony and guardianship. ✨ Why Visit Both Together? • 🌄 Mount Dandenong Observatory – Panoramic views stretching from Port Phillip Bay to the Yarra Valley. • 🪨 William Ricketts Sanctuary – Art, culture, and spirituality fused with nature in a serene forest setting. • 🌿 Contrast in Experience – One celebrates vast horizons, the other invites you inward into reflection and connection.