Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens, Tasmania - Stunning Gardens & Platypus

Oct 24, 2021
2 min read

Updated: Jan 28

Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens, Tasmania - Stunning Gardens & Platypus

The Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens is one of Tasmania’s most beautiful and peaceful garden experiences, set across 11 hectares of rolling countryside near Devonport on the state’s north-west coast. Privately owned and lovingly curated, the gardens are home to more than 24,000 rhododendrons and companion plants, showcasing an extraordinary collection from around the world.

Wandering through Emu Valley feels like stepping into a living artwork — a place where colour, texture, and tranquillity combine to create a truly memorable experience.

A Garden for Every Season

The gardens are best known for their spectacular rhododendron flowering season, which typically runs from late August through to January. During this time, the landscape bursts into colour, with vibrant blooms lining winding paths and reflecting beautifully in the garden’s lakes.

However, Emu Valley is far from a one-season attraction. Visiting in autumn (March to May) is equally rewarding, when the gardens transform with rich reds, golds, and burnt oranges as deciduous trees put on a stunning autumn display.

Peaceful Walks, Lakes, and Hidden Corners

One of the joys of Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens is simply slowing down and exploring. Well-maintained paths lead you past tranquil lakes, manicured lawns, and carefully planted garden beds, with strategically placed seats inviting you to pause and take it all in. The gardens are designed to feel natural and flowing rather than formal, making every turn reveal a new view, reflection, or quiet corner.

Wildlife and Natural Encounters

Beyond the flowers, the gardens are alive with birdlife, adding to the sense of calm and connection with nature. If you’re lucky and take your time, you may even spot a platypus in the waterways or an echidna wandering through the grounds — a reminder that this beautiful garden also provides a haven for native wildlife.

Devonshire Tea and Garden Café

A visit to Emu Valley wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the garden café. Here, you can enjoy Devonshire teas, light lunches, and a tempting selection of homemade cakes and treats, all best enjoyed with views across the gardens.

It’s the perfect way to relax after a gentle wander — unhurried, indulgent, and very Tasmanian.

Opening Hours & Entry

Open daily: 10.00 am – 3.00 pm

Entry fees: Adults: $15 - Concession: $13 - Children: Free

Getting to Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens

From Burnie, take Mount Street to Cascade Road in Romaine (approximately 6.2 kilometres). Continue along Cascade Road for a further 2.6 kilometres, and you’ll arrive at the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens. There is plenty of parking available on site.

Final Thoughts

Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in beauty. Whether you’re visiting during peak flowering season, enjoying autumn colours, spotting wildlife, or sipping tea by the lake, this tranquil garden is a highlight of north-west Tasmania.

If you enjoy gardens, photography, or simply peaceful places, Emu Valley is well worth adding to your Tasmania itinerary.