This man-made lake, famous for its intense reflections, was built to provide a water supply for a proposed Sanatorium for tuberculosis patients.
The lake remains as a tranquil place and as a reminder of advances made in medical science over the years.
Sanatorium Lake is accessed via Lions Head Road which is almost opposite the entrance to Cameron Drive. The drive along this gravel road passes through the attractive Days Picnic Ground and then to the car park at Sanatorium Lake. A 250 metre walk from the car park along the Eco-Tourism Walking Trail takes visitors to an information shelter and the adjacent lake.
Other picnic areas and walking trails are located near the lake.
Sanitorium Lake Eco-Tourism Trail
This is a great place for a family stroll, with many natural features to see along the way.
Signs along the walk and a display board at the lake provide information on the forest environment.
The walk is about 2.5km and passes through several vegetation types, including tall eucalypt forests and a wet fern gully. Access and parking is available at Days Picnic Ground, Lions Head Road carpark and Sanatorium Picnic Ground.
The trail links with the 29 kilometre Macedon Ranges Walking Trail, which incorporates most of Mount Macedon’s other scenic highlights, including Camels Hump, Memorial Cross and lookouts with outstanding views to Port Phillip Bay, the You Yangs and the Dandenong Ranges.
Distance: 2.8km
Duration: 1 hour
Track condition: Good
Grade: Flat
Best time: Spring or early summer.
Location: Lions Head Rd, Mount Macedon
