Into the Dandenongs

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BACK STORY: “Into the Woods” isn’t a phrase used much here in Australia. People are more likely to say something like “a walk through the bush,” “a hike in the forest,” or just “a wander in the trees.”

It’s been a while since I had walked in the forest—my knees haven’t been too kind lately. But I’ve gathered some photos from past walks for this week’s Lens-Artists Photo Challenge, hosted by Egidio, with the theme Into the Woods. Grateful for every step I can still take.

Winding through ferny forests, charming villages, and misty mountain roads—this scenic escape just outside Melbourne offers nature at its most peaceful.

The Dandenongs never fail—massive mountain ash trees stretch way up into the sky, and underneath, soft green ferns blanket the forest floor. It’s like walking through a living rainforest painting.

There’s also something calming about water in the forest—whether it’s a trickling creek or a still pond … just trees, reflections, and that peaceful sound of water finding its way.

20 Comments Add yours

  1. Egídio says:

    Teresa, these are great photos. I loved the lush greens and especially the fact you mentioned ferns on the forest floor. I can sense the peace and forest bathing feelings in these beautiful images. Impressive gallery!

    1. Teresa says:

      Thanks Egidio for liking it. Glad you found peace in that because I do too.

  2. nesfelicio says:

    Beautiful place. Wonderful photos. I wouldn’t mind wandering through this…

    1. Teresa says:

      Thanks Nes. It is peaceful in there.

  3. Coral Waight says:

    I live at the foot of the Dandenongs, Teresa, and don’t go up there often enough. Thanks for the reminder.

    1. Teresa says:

      Oh no. My husband and I go there whenever we have nothing to do on weekends. We used to walk around but now we just go to cafes.

  4. pommepal says:

    Loved this virtual wander with you Teresa. Like you my knees are not to cooperative about hilking now so I love seeing all the lovely places on WordPress.

    1. Teresa says:

      I still try sometimes, just a bit slow. Thanks a lot!

  5. Thank you for that wander in the woods

    1. Teresa says:

      My pleasure to have taken you I.J.

  6. margaret21 says:

    Even if you can’t walk much now (and I hope you’ll be able to again) you have an encyclopaedia of memories here. Wonderful

    1. Teresa says:

      I don’t know if you got my previous response. But I am just thankful for all the lovely memories. Thanks Margaret for commenting.

  7. Lovely post and images, Teresa!

    1. Teresa says:

      Thanks so much Donna.

  8. So beautiful and peaceful looking.

    1. Teresa says:

      Thanks so much!

  9. dennyho says:

    These are spectacular forest photos. I look forward to our changing foliage here in the states in a few months.

    1. Teresa says:

      It is always good to be in the moment with all the seasons.

  10. Leanne Cole says:

    The Dandenongs are gorgeous, it’s been too long since I’ve visited. You have shown them well.

    1. Teresa says:

      Thanks Leanne.

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