LOVE A GETAWAY
Daylesford & Hepburn Springs
The two iconic Victorian towns came to life during the gold rush of the 1850’s.
Almost 175 years later, this destination along the Macedon Ranges some 115 kilometres north west of Melbourne, is now a gold mine of food and beverage, arts, culture and pure relaxation.
Known as the spa centre of Australia, the adjacent townships have day spas and hot springs dotted everywhere, with the most famous being the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. Winning many global luxury awards, this its pampering on a whole new level and eh perfect way to start the day.
Winning many global luxury awards, this is pampering on a whole new level and a perfect start to a day.
Enjoy the adults only private Sanctuary hot tubs and steam rooms (there are some children friendly areas) and then sit back with a facial, massage or another relaxing treatment from the experienced staff.
Our breakfast choice was at the Larder on the main street of Daylesford with a fantastic menu. But for the best cofee it’s Harry’s Hepburn. A stunning little establishment with a beautiful courtyard and lots of local goodies for sale.
For the kids the region is full of endless opportunities. A restored heritage train has been completely redone from the gold rush and takes families through beautiful scenic country.
The well-known Lavender farm is stunning. Wander through the fields of the sweet- smelling lavender and get up close and personal with emus, bulls, cows and alpacas in the farmyards. Be sure to buy something pampering from the lavender gift shop.
The region is home to many wineries, breweries and distilleries – whether Shiraz and Cabernets – or Gins, Vodka and Whiskeys.
The Hepburn Distillery, The Daylesford Brewing Co and the Daylesford Cider Company are among the most famous for a bevvy and a bite.
But it’s the new Daylesford Spirit that’s the drop on everyone’s lips.
In 12 months, the brand has developed 9 products including vodka, whiskey and gin – and has won multiple international and national awards.
Founder Michael Samoolin has created a wonderful space where people can sample the spirits, and then sit with a Daylesford picnic box on the lake and see some kangaroos.
Make sure you taste the blueberry gin and blood orange gin!
One of the real highlights for the visit was a trip to Winespeake Cellar Deli. Sit down and enjoy a glass of wine (an unmatched wine list for the area) with a board of local cheeses, pastes, breads, crackers and meats. Make sure you asked to be served by the delightful Marty!
Don’t come to the Daylesford region on a diet. There is way too much bloody good food!
The iconic Lakehouse restaurant, nestled on Lake Daylesford, is one of the best restaurants in Australia. A 5-star experience (two chef hats) under the culinary directorship of Alla Wolf Tasker. For lovers of French food, then Bistro Terroir is one of the best in the state. Hotel Frangos is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a modern and fresh menu – and a wine bar with fantastic cocktails visited by locals and visitors alike.
There is a plethora of pubs in the area for a more affordable family feel.
Arts and culture is unparalleled for a regional centre.
The Convent is the township’s most iconic building. Over four floors , there are seven gallery experiences, a museum and a cafe– surrounded by gardens and view of the central highlands. Iconic artist David Bromley has his own gallery in Daylesford, and also visit the vibrant Radius Art Space or the Michael Parker Gallery.
If you still have some money left, there are some gorgeous boutiques selling local fashion, homewares and other knick knacks including Creswick Natural Fibres, Wombat Gifts, The Farmers Wife & Cedar and Sage.
No trip is complete without a visit to the Palais Hepburn. Regional Victoria’s most famous cabaret style venue with guest performers, a cocktail bar and restaurant.
Accommodation is endless, and the region is particularly loved for its cottages and bed & breakfasts all over town.
The iconic Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel at Hepburn Springs was built in the 1930’s and has been transformed into a deluxe retreat with stunning European like vistas with little balconies for some R&R. The resort is also home to the famous Argus Dining Room restaurant and it has its own award-winning mineral springs on the hotel grounds. Don’t miss it.
After you have eaten, drunk and danced your way around Daylesford, head on some fantastic walks. There is none better than the ‘Goldfields Track’ which is the journey all the gold diggers took during the gold rush through the region.
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, you really are a golden oldie.
