Oberon And Surrounds - Blooming Lovely

Daffodils at Rydal

Different from urban gardens, those of Oberon and surrounds, in NSW Australia,  have often been developed from virgin bush or lush farmland. Many are also works in progress, a great drawcard for visitors to return often to check out developments.

Here's a few to pick from:

Oberon Spring Garden Open Weekend (October 27-28, November 3-4): Six gardens around Oberon and Titania Estate. Local stone mason will display products at Bridie Park and refreshments at Willow Dale Garden.

Daffodils at Rydal (September 15-16): Thousands of daffodils in bloom in private and public gardens. Refreshments available along with a variety of musical entertainment. Limited midweek group bookings from September 11 to 13. Cost: $10 includes gardens and musical events. Details: Lindsay Green 6359 3237 or rydal.com.au.

Tarana Red Cross 7th Annual Art Exhibition, Tarana Bushfire Shed (10am - 4pm September 28-30): Guest artist. Australian Red Cross The Power of Humanity. Devonshire teas available. Cost: $5, $15 opening night (September 28, 7pm-9pm).

Falkirk Farm Spring Spectacular

Falkirk Farm Spring Spectacular, 2070 Edith Rd, Oberon (September 12, October 6): More than 2500 varieties of daffodils on display throughout the 2.5 acre garden, with more than 80 potted varieties for sale. Also wild bird life and farm animals from 10am to 4.30pm. Morning and afternoon tea available. Large coaches and group packages welcome. Cost: $7.50 adults, $4 children (5-16 years). Details: 6336 1282 or falkirkfarm.com.au.

The Rotary Club of Oberon Daffodil Dawdle (September 22): View seven large country gardens showing their yellow splendour. Details: Brenda Lyon 6336 5182.

Anglican Parish Open Garden Weekend (October 27-28): Visit the 6ha Currumbena parkland.

Mayfield Garden, Mayfield Rd, Oberon (9am to 4.30pm October 6, October 20-21, October 27-28, November 3-4): One of the largest privately-owned cool climate gardens in the world, located within a 5000 acre working farm includes a maze, oak forest, walled potager, 80m cascade, extensive parterre gardens and more. Cost: $25 adults, $10 children (7-16 years). Details: 6336 3131 or mayfieldgarden.com.au.

Gairloch Open Garden Weekend, 27 Blenheim Ave, Oberon (October 20 & 27, November 3): Cold climate garden features varied use of water, croquet lawn, timber and masonry structures, garden chess, vertical and parterre gardens, alpine phlox and blossom trees, metal artwork, birdlife, water features and hedging terracing. Details: 6336 0291.

Mayfield Garden

Visit www.oberonfestivals.com.au or Oberon Visitor Information Centre for more details.

Go to www.visitbluemountains.com.au for more garden and other nature-based spring activities