The Grotto

The Grotto

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5.0 of 5 bubbles4 reviews
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Swell Traveller
Melbourne, Australia3,613 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2020
The Grotto / Grotto Waterfall is a hidden gem located inside King's Domain Gardens. It is close by to other Melbourne attractions - Shrine of Remembrance, Government House, Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden, Yarra River, Botanical Gardens and Sidney Myer Music Bowl.

It was completed in 1981 and made out of basalt and cement. It is a popular spot for wedding photography. There are two entrances, and the Yarra River entry is easier for those with mobility issues [not the one in the photo with the sign].

For a long time, this area was dry due to the drought and water restrictions, but now it has a waterfall, steep steps and walkways plus plenty of lush ferns and other foliage. There is a small pond with two bridges that cross over.

Great to visit early in the day. The Grotto could be part of your daily exercise in the area; via The Tan, and is also a great spot to meditate.

Note: Can get a bit slippery after it has rained.
Written 24 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

AndyJohn74
Sydney, Australia5,961 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2021 • Solo
The grotto is located close to Government House and the Pioneer Women’s Memorial Garden. This is a hidden gem and can be easily missed. There are steps that go into the Grotto where there is a running stream and waterfall. Lovely place.
Written 24 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

catkid3
Victoria, Australia161 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2023
Popped by here after spending a day in the CBD and was very impressed. It's located near the Pioneer Women's Memorial Garden but has no signage, so it can be easily missed. The waterfall was flowing well and you'll be surrounded by an insane amount of beautiful green foliage. I visited when it was around 30 degrees and the temperature difference when you're next to the waterfall was quite noticeable.
Be mindful of the narrow steps that you need to descend to get down here! Easiest way to get here is by taking a tram to Stop 17 Police Memorial and taking a 10 minute stroll through Kings Domain.
Written 7 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

EndlessTravels
Greater Melbourne, Australia38,571 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2020
The Grotto
Aka Fern Gully

Kings Domain Gardens
Melbourne

An amazing hidden paradise located within the Kings Domain gardens near the northern Lych gate of the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Features two pretty waterfalls and numerous walking tracks and photo opportunities.

ACCESS: park car on Linlithgow Ave or Alexandra Ave. Or walk from tram stop on St Kilda Rd (Grant St stop).

TOILETS: located 300 metres away on Government House Drive.
Written 29 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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