The unique climate of Mount Macedon has lead to the most exquisite European-style gardens in Victoria. The temperate conditions, fertile and varied soil types and high rainfall of the southern slopes have proven ideal for the cultivation of extensive, ornamental and exotic gardens. Since the late 19th century, William Cameron established his retreat with gardens inspired by the Romantic models tha
t were fashionable in Europe. The Romantic allusions were further enhanced by the gentle mountain river, Turritable, which runs through the estate. The gardens combine lush floral collections with sweeping lawns, pavilions and rambling paths. Cameron Lodge garden is part of what is now considered one of the most important collections of colonial gardens in Australia. They have considerable botanical and horticultural significance and are an interesting reflection of the prevailing social attitudes of the wealthy in late 19th-century Australia. Some of the individual trees and gardens are now registered with the National Estate. Cameron Lodge, built for William Cameron (who erected the original memorial cross on the mountain's summit) has vast lawns, some fine masonry and plenty of deciduous trees
