Melbourne Escorts – Page 50

Belgrave, Upwey and Tecoma

The Belgrave line climbs into the Dandenong Ranges and finishes among tall mountain ash and tree ferns. Upwey and Tecoma are small hills villages strung along Burwood Highway, with cafes, op shops and galleries, and Belgrave, at the end of the line, is the departure point for the old steam railway that winds on through the forest. Sherbrooke Forest, just above the town, is known for its lyrebirds.

The hills are a place people come to slow down, and a cottage or bed and breakfast in the ranges makes a lovely setting for a longer booking. There are fewer local listings up here than in the suburbs, so Melbourne escorts from the outer east and the foothills are the usual choice, and a visit to the hills is best arranged a few days ahead.

The train from the city takes a little over an hour to reach Belgrave, and the drive up Burwood Highway is slow on weekends when visitors head for the steam train and the forest walks. Roads are winding and dark at night, so make sure your companion has clear directions.

The nearest listings are in Ferntree Gully and Boronia, at the foot of the range.