Discover Mount Martha

Mount Martha offers a range of local attractions to consider when planning a trip. The Briars brings together nature and history; individual facilities have their own opening times and access conditions. If you’re looking for hotels in Mount Martha, these differences can help you decide what to focus on during your trip.

The Briars: Nature and History

The Briars is an area in Mount Martha that includes a nature reserve and a wildlife sanctuary. It also features a historic homestead listed by the National Trust, historic gardens and outbuildings, as well as a visitor centre. The natural areas and historic buildings offer different points of interest within the area.

A guided tour takes you around the garden of the historic Briars Homestead. The Heritage Homestead itself is closed for restoration work. Check current access arrangements before your visit; the garden tour and the homestead closure are separate aspects of visiting.

Opening Hours and Access

The Wildlife Sanctuary and Visitor Centre are open daily from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. The Eco Living Display Centre is open on Fridays from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Unlike the two facilities that open daily, it follows a weekly and monthly schedule. Its opening hours fall within the daily opening hours of the Wildlife Sanctuary and Visitor Centre. If you plan to visit the Display Centre specifically, keep in mind that it is open on Fridays and the first Saturday of the month. Opening hours may change; check the current Shire website before your visit.

The Community Forest is open daily and can be accessed via the Nepean Highway. Access may be restricted during severe weather warnings and Total Fire Ban days. For this area, keep an eye on current conditions as well as the access information above.

Trails and Practical Details

There are two boardwalks to distinguish between: the 300-metre Wetland Walking trail boardwalk is in the Wildlife Sanctuary and is among the areas with accessible facilities for people with varying mobility needs. The Balcombe Estuary boardwalk at The Briars, by contrast, is currently closed due to storm damage. Check its current access status before your visit.

The Eco Living Display Centre is also among the areas with accessible facilities for people with varying mobility needs. These two access notes relate to different types of visits: a trail in the Wildlife Sanctuary and a Display Centre with its own opening hours. The Briars also has picnic areas with free barbecues. If you’re planning a break outdoors, you can make use of these facilities.

Bathing Boxes at Mount Martha Beach

There are bathing boxes at Mount Martha Beach. They add a distinct beach attraction to The Briars’ nature and history offerings.

Discover more destinations: Trentham, Euroa, Albert Park, Warragul, Yarrambat, Koroit, Chepstowe, Wycheproof.

For the broader travel guide: Victoria.