The Big Bouquet – Gerbera and Alpaca Farm
Looking for a brilliant, family friendly activity near Melbourne. One where you can escape the city, reconnect with nature and have a bit of fun with the kids? Well read on because this might be just the place.
Ever thought of combining your passions, regardless of the outcome? The owners of the Big Bouquet in Healesville Yarra Valley have done just that. And surprisingly it works really well.
Their farm is a combination of both a gerbera flower farm and an alpaca stud. The whole space is designed for families and flower enthusiasts alike. And entry is FREE.
There is also a cafe with light lunch options, coffees and milkshakes to enjoy while you are overlooking the paddocks or running through the roses.
Alpaca feeding is available too ($7.50 per bag) and is a totally worthwhile activity as the herd comes straight up to the walkway to greet you.
Find Stays Near The Big Bouquet
Once you've finished patting these gorgeous creatures you can head through to the nursery hothouses and discovery room where you can touch and feel fleece, discover the numerous varieties of gerberas being grown on site and that are available on display.
We learnt about helpful pests and what works in harmony in the garden as well as had a close look at some bugs and flower petals under the handheld video microscope.
There are lots of local and imported alpaca wool products on display and for sale. Try on a pair of socks or the softest poncho you've ever felt. You'll also find a plethora of bee friendly seed packs, honey and tons of buzzing trinkets to remind you to plant native and support the native bee population.
Selfie opportunities are plentiful throughout the gardens and the information station including the standard “face in a hole” alpaca display board for the kids, an alpaca kissing booth and flower headdresses for those who are brave enough to pose amongst the petals.
There are also several playgrounds installed on site that cater for most ages with sets of swings and an in-ground trampoline and sandpit with mechanical digger. It is safe to say, there really is something for everyone. Grab yourself a bunch of flowers on the way out and enjoy the drive home through the gorgeous Yarra Valley.
The Big Bouquet is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm and entry is FREE.
Keep your eye out on their socials to be first to know about special farm tours, free alpaca feeding opportunities and colouring in competitions run throughout the year.
HOT TIPS:
- There is limited cover so if it's hot or rainy, you want to get in early to get a good spot.
- Parking is plentiful, as are the selfie backdrops. Alpaca feed is $7.50 and totally worth the cost to support this beautiful family friendly venue.
- The Big Bouquet – Gerbera and Alpaca Farm
- 27 Barak Lane, Healseville, 3777
