There is a variety of accommodation options available in towns and villages close to Puffing Billy Railway.
From cosy B&Bs in the Dandenong Ranges to luxury hotels in the Yarra Valley, there is something for everyone. You'll be sure to find the perfect place to relax after a day out and about exploring our region!
Please note that you cannot book accommodation through Puffing Billy Railway. Kindly book online on any of the websites listed below or contact one of the providers directly.
RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY FOR RUNNING FESTIVAL PARTICIPANTS
SAGE MELBOURNE RINGWOOD
Sage Melbourne Ringwood spans five floors atop the Eastland Shopping Centre and offers guests 120 modern hotel rooms, located only 30 minutes from Puffing Billy Railway by car or Metro Train from Ringwood Station.
PARKROYAL MONASH MELBOURNE
Retreat into PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne, anchored by modern comforts and friendly service that will make you feel at home as soon as you enter the hotel. Located in Clayton, PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne is just a 30-minute drive from race start in Belgrave.
Emerald Ridge B&B
Emerald Ridge B&B is set on a 10-acre property with rural views over valleys and gardens. It offers two options for clean, stylish, private accommodation; A fully equipped self-contained 2 bedroom cottage (sleeps up to 4 people) OR a private Guest Suite with King Bed, Lounge & an extra-large Ensuite with Spa and Double shower (sleeps 2 people).
Emerald Ridge B&B is located only 5-minutes from Lakeside (Saturday race start and Sunday Finish Zone) and 15-minutes from Belgrave (Sunday race start).
The Chen Melbourne - Art Series (Box HIll)
The hotel features 100 intelligently designed suites that are complemented with the vibrant works of Chinese born, Australian Artist, Zhong Chen. The Chen plays home to local and interstate travellers looking for a stay for work or play. Featuring spectacular views of Melbourne's CBD and surrounding suburbs from the impressive rooftop pool and entertainment deck and all the while only being a hop, skip and jump to Box Hill's exciting dining precinct. The Chen is conveniently located only moments from Box Hill station, making travel to the Race Start on Sunday morning by train a breeze!
HOLIDAY INN DANDENONG
Experience a brighter way to travel at Holiday Inn Dandenong. Situated in Dandenong CBD, the hotel is located approximately 20 kilometers drive from Puffing Billy Railway. It is a vibrant social hub for guests and surrounding local community to work, rest, and play.
LILYDALE PINE HILL CARAVAN PARK
Lilydale Pine Hill Caravan Park is central to Victoria’s famous Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges, just over 30 minuntes' drive from either Belgrave or Lakeside station.
Choose a cabin to suit, ensuite or drive thru site for your RV’s, or large rig. Powered and unpowered sites are available to compliment your budget.
Other recommended accommodation options
Cloud View Garden
Cloud View Garden offers luxury accommodation and a choice of two suites, the Cloud Retreat & Garden Retreat.
LOCATION | Menzies Creek
Hyatt Place Melbourne Caribbean Park
Hyatt Place Melbourne Caribbean Park sets a new standard of accommodation located in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, a mere 20 minutes from Puffing Billy Railway.
LOCATION | Scoresby
ibis
Glen Waverley
Relax with stylish, convenient & affordable accommodation at ibis Melbourne Glen Waverley. The hotel offers an ideal location close to Melbourne CBD, Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley.
LOCATION | Glen Waverley
Yering Gorge Cottages
Yering Gorge Cottages features 13 self-contained, beautifully appointed one, two and five-bedroom cottages. All cottages include separate living and bedroom areas, and guests can relax on their wide balcony watching the kangaroos graze, whilst enjoying a glass of local Yarra Valley wine.
LOCATION | Yering (Yarra Valley)
Where to eat nearby
Cognoscenti Food & Wine
A cosy neighbourhood restaurant nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, located next door to the historic Cameo Cinema and 5 minutes' walk from Puffing Billy's Belgrave station.
LOCATION | Belgrave
The General Food Store
Serving well-crafted rustic food, you will enjoy anything from waffles, eggs and sides, hearty salads, braises, tasty burgers, and fresh baguettes.
LOCATION | Emerald
Incy Wincy
Incy Wincy is a seasonal grab-and-go cafe hatch, featuring coffee, smoothies, fresh juices, sandwiches, salad bowls, pies, and sausage rolls.
LOCATION | Emerald
Micawber Tavern
Set on the edge of the majestic Sherbrooke Forest, the Micawber Tavern is the perfect destination for lunch and dinner throughout the year.
LOCATION | Belgrave
Paradise Valley Hotel
Be seated on the enclosed bistro deck, where we boast an immaculate view of the historic steam train as it passes by.
LOCATION | Clematis
Things to do nearby
Global Ballooning Australia
Experience a birds-eye view of the bustling Melbourne CBD or the picturesque Yarra Valley with a sunrise hot air balloon flight.
LOCATION | Yarra Valley and Melbourne CBD
Killik Handcrafted Rum & Gininfinity
Killik Handcrafted Rum & Ginfinity are a pair of unique craft distilleries, one focused on funky HOGO rum and the other on unique craft gins.
LOCATION | Belgrave
The Orchard at Montague
Unlike any of the apple orchards in Victoria, the Orchard at Montague provides a memorable and fun experience with family and friends just 35 kilometres from Melbourne.
LOCATION | Narre Warren North
Warratina Lavender Farm
Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of this family run 5-acre lavender farm, an hour’s drive from Melbourne at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, in the beautiful Yarra Valley.
LOCATION | Wandin North