Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens
Located on the Mornington Peninsula, Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens is a standout destination for visitors.
Spanning 25 acres, this attraction combines Australia’s oldest hedge maze with a year-round flowering lavender labyrinth, set among a series of meticulously designed gardens. It offers a unique mix of interactive fun and natural beauty, making it ideal for families, couples, and garden enthusiasts.
Ashcombe Maze
Hedge Maze
The Ashcombe Hedge Maze is the crown jewel of the property. Planted over 40 years ago, it now stands more than three metres high and two metres thick, created from over 1,000 cypress trees. Visitors navigate hundreds of metres of winding paths to find four mosaic flags in the two halves of the maze, with each half offering a distinct layout that keeps even experienced explorers on their toes.
The maze is maintained organically, without string lines or straight edges, giving it a naturally curvaceous appearance. The maze keepers trim the hedges three or four times a year.
Adjacent to the hedge maze is the Lavender Labyrinth, featuring over 4,000 lavender plants arranged on a rolling hillside. The labyrinth includes more than 40 named varieties, offering a vibrant display throughout the year. Visitors can explore winding paths that lead to a viewing platform above the lavender, providing an excellent perspective of the surrounding gardens.
The gardens themselves include Woodland Greens, the Rock Garden, Summer Garden, Lily Pond, and Ashcombe Arboretum, showcasing rare and unusual trees, seasonal flowers, and striking water features. Highlights include giant American Redwoods, Japanese Princess Trees, and ancient Woolamai Pines, all contributing to the property’s horticultural diversity. Visitors can also enjoy the Garden Discovery Trail, a self-guided tour that details the history and botanical features of the grounds.
Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens Tickets
Tickets for Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens can be purchased online or at the entrance. Admission includes access to the hedge maze, lavender labyrinth, and all display gardens, as well as a map of the grounds and activity sheets for children. Ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults: $22
- Seniors/Health Care Card holders: $19
- Children (4–15 years): $14
- Children (0–3 years): Free
- Family tickets (2 adults + 2–4 children): $65–$85
Groups of 10 or more are eligible for discounted rates if booked 24 hours in advance. Visitors are advised to allow at least 1–1.5 hours to explore the gardens, although there is no time limit, allowing for a relaxed day out.
On-site amenities include the Ashcombe Café, offering pies, fish and chips, fresh sandwiches, and the famous lavender ice cream. Picnic areas are available for guests who prefer to bring their own food, with benches and tables scattered throughout the property.
