The View from the Lake

See the Royal Botanic Gardens from a completely different perspective when you take a trip on a wooden punt.

Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the city’s most popular spots for both visitors and locals – a serene and picturesque escape just a few minutes’ stroll from the CBD. But did you know there’s a different way to explore this most beautiful of landscapes? Punting on the Lake offers a unique perspective of the gardens. Guided by your own dapper punter you’ll take a comfortable seat on a wooden punt and glide across the Ornamental Lake.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic interlude with your special someone or attempting to amuse the kids, there are a number of different options available. Book in advance for a private one-hour sunset or evening tour, and don’t forget a bottle of champagne. As the sun sinks, the light is beautiful and many species of birds arrive to feed, so it’s a particularly good time of day for photography enthusiasts, too.

A half-hour session during the day is great for the younger members of the family. The punters give a commentary on everything you’ll see from the water – the gardens, floating islands, birds, fish and perhaps even a turtle on a hot day.

Got a special occasion coming up? For birthdays, hen’s afternoons or weddings, book all three of the punts – each seats up to eight people – and organise a package. There’s the option to include high tea or even book a combined hot-air balloon and punting adventure.

Prices start at $25 for adults and $12 for children, and you can bring your well-behaved dog along. While the weather’s still warm, punting tours run from 10.15am until 5pm, and sunset and evening tours need to be booked in advance. (From June to August, tours operate on weekends and public holidays only.) Call 0418 455 410 or click on the button below for more information, gift vouchers and bookings.