Our autumn holiday in the Blue Mountains was the perfect opportunity to finally visit Mayfield Garden, a place that had been on my bucket list for ages. Known as one of the largest and most spectacular cool climate gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, Mayfield Garden certainly lived up to its reputation.
As Australia’s largest privately-owned cool climate garden, Mayfield is a testament to the vision of the Hawkins family, who drew inspiration from Europe’s most significant horticultural destinations. Since we were already staying overnight in the Blue Mountains, a day trip to Mayfield Garden was a no-brainer. The scenic hour-long drive only added to our anticipation.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by landscapes straight out of a fairytale. The garden unfolded before us, a paradise of vibrant autumn hues, serene water features, and inviting pathways. From the tranquil Obelisk Pond to the grandeur of the Hawkins’ Family Chapel, every corner of Mayfield Garden beckoned us to explore further.
I was particularly enchanted by the Pampas Garden, with grasses towering above me. It felt like a scene straight out of a Bollywood film, and I couldn’t resist the urge to take countless photos of the Japanese Maples, their leaves ablaze with rich autumn colours.
The kids were thrilled with the treasure hunt map they received at the entrance. They were so engaged in finding all the numbers on their map that they forgot how much walking they were doing.
The English Box Hedge Maze was a highlight for both kids and adults alike. Navigating its twists and turns was a delightful adventure, and we emerged with smiles on our faces and a sense of accomplishment. It took us around 10 minutes to reach the bell tower, it took us only 5 minutes to get out.
Our only hiccup came when we attempted to lunch at the garden’s restaurant. Despite available tables, we were turned away as we hadn’t booked in advance. Left with no other option, we settled for pizza from a nearby establishment. Unfortunately, the pizzas were a disappointment – burnt on the edges and cold in the middle. Lesson learned: always pack a picnic lunch to avoid food-related woes!
Despite this minor setback, our visit to Mayfield Garden was nothing short of enchanting. It perfectly complemented our Blue Mountains holiday, offering a blend of natural beauty and artistic landscaping that left us in awe. If you ever find yourself in the area, don’t miss the chance to experience this magical oasis firsthand. Just be sure to pack your own lunch to avoid any disappointments!
Mayfield Garden
530 Mayfield Rd, Oberon NSW
PH: (02) 6336 3131
Open 9.00am to 4.30pm Monday – Sunday.
Have you been there? Leave your experience in the comments!
M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO
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