Daylesford Macedon - Visitor Guide 2019

Harcourt Redesdale

CASTLEMAINE Yapeen Clydesdale

Guildford

Shepherds Flat Glengower

CLUNES

Smeaton

Fryerstown Vaughan

Sidonia

KYNETON

Dean

Baynton

East Pastoria

Little Hampton Lyonville

WOODEND

Fern Hill East Trentham

Newbury

TRENTHAM

Rocklyn Korweinguboora Spargo Creek

ROMSEY

Hanging Rock Hesket Mt Macedon

can internet or captioned relay

listen to local radio, talk to your host and visit

New Gisborne

breathtaking scenery and diverse natural environments knowing you’ve taken a few steps

district and if there are any fire restrictions.

On hot, dry, windy days, check Fire Danger

declared for the area you are visiting.

Check the weather and listen to local radio for advice and warnings.

Download the VicEmergency app.

Gisborne South

Save the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (1800 240 667) into your mobile phone.

Leigh Creek

North

Gordon

BALLAN

Myrniong

have a speech impairment, contact

and ask for triple zero (000), you

as the number you want to call,

Victoria. Wind down and enjoy Victoria’s

Check to see if a Total Fire Ban has been

GISBORNE

If you are deaf, hard of hearing or

Summer is the perfect time to discover regional

forests may be closed.

Clarkefield

Speech Impaired

can SMS relay by texting 0423 677

Ratings and warnings. Fires can start and

Riddells Creek

Deaf, Hard of Hearing or

an accredited Visitor Information Centre.

spread quickly on these days and parks and

Blackwood

Greendale

Service. TTY users can dial 106, you

call 1800 240 667, check the VicEmergency app,

you can check the Fire Danger Rating for that

Lerderderg Wattle Flat

74km 24km 44km 35km 29km 38km 15km 56km 55km

us through the National Relay

source of fire information. Visit cfa.vic.gov.au,

Know which weather district you are visiting so

MACEDON

Bullengarook

55 Minutes 20 Minutes 20 Minutes 30 Minutes 20 Minutes 35 Minutes 10 Minutes 45 Minutes 44 Minutes

Remember to always check more than one

to stay bushfire safe.

LANCEFIELD

Sailors Falls

CRESWICK

Melbourne to Woodend Woodend to Trentham D aylesford to Clunes D aylesford to Kyneton D aylesford to Malmsbury Kyneton to Lancefield Woodend to Kyneton Melbourne to Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh to Daylesford

Drummond Mt Franklin Cobaw Pipers Creek Porcupine Ridge Lauriston Carlsruhe Coomoora Springhill Newham Glenlyon Tylden Rochford Wheatsheaf

HEPBURN SPRINGS DAYLESFORD Newlyn

Glenhope

Taradale

MALMSBURY

Muskvale Musk Ascot

Barfold

Yandoit

Campelltown

Talbot

Elphinstone

Campbells Creek

Newstead

Tooborac

Travel safe in summer

Bushfire Information for the

Don’t rely on electronic mapping devices.

767 and including triple zero (000) you can video relay by logging into Skype and contacting one of the NRS contact names or you can use an ordinary phone and dial 1800 555 727 and ask for triple zero (000).

Further information relayservice.gov. au/making-a-call/emergency-calls / or relayservice.gov.au.

Translating & Interpreting Service If you don’t speak English call the Translating and Intepreting Service on 131 450 for translated information from VBIL. If you know someone who can’t speak English, provide them with this number.

What are fire danger ratings?

Fire Danger Ratings tell you how dangerous a fire would be if one started.

Mobile phones and GPS may be affected by smoke and local conditions. Make sure you carry hard copy local maps and listen to the radio.

BACCHUS MARSH

Visit an accredited Visitor Information Centre.

Staff may be able to suggest alternative holiday activities on high risk days and provide local fire and park information.

Never travel into a high risk bushfire area

melbourne Share your journey tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

where the Code Red Fire Danger Rating has been declared or where fires are burning.

What is a total fire ban day?

A Total Fire Ban sets legal restrictions on activities that may start a fire including restrictions on barbecues and campfires.

CONTENTS Welcome______________________________________ 2-3 Food & Wine___________________________________4-7 Farmers’ Markets____________________________ 10-11 Festivals & Events ____________________________ 12-13 The Region’s Art _____________________________ 14-15 Shopping & Retail____________________________ 18-19 Spa & Wellbeing_____________________________ 22-23 Mineral Water Springs_______________________ 26-27 Walking, Hiking & Cycling____________________28-31 Gardens____________________________________ 32-33 Classes & Workshops________________________ 34-35 Weddings___________________________________ 38-39 Gisborne to Lancefield, Woodend to Mt Macedon___________________ 42-57 Daylesford, Hepburn Springs, Trentham & other Delights __________________ 58-87 Kyneton to Tooborac & Everything in Between______________________ 88-99 Castlemaine & Surrounds _________________ 100-107 Creswick to Clunes and the Area Beyond_______________________108-119 Bacchus Marsh to Blackwood & Surrounds____________________120-127 Visitor Information_____________________________ 128 Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

VISITOR GUIDE | 1

WELCOME Swiss Italian immigrants forged the tourism path to our region 150 years ago, seeking out the health and vitality that the numerous mineral springs offered. Today, our clear water, rich soil, beautiful climate and gifted producers make our region Australia’s ‘go to’ region for sophisticated food and wine lovers.

Exploring the area offers so much.

Farm gates and farmers’ markets are bursting with beautiful fresh produce and hatted restaurants are in generous supply. Charming 19th century villages are scattered across the landscape, making this the perfect touring region.

You can stop off and learn to create an artisanal masterpiece, hike around Hanging Rock, mountain bike down peaceful lanes or challenging trails, sample the region’s elegant cool climate wines, indulge with one of

the many heath and wellness experts, explore the many mineral springs and spa resorts and relax in some of the very best accommodation.

Less than an hour by car from Melbourne’s CBD, Melbourne Airport or short train journey from Southern Cross, you’ll soon be immersed in the revitalising air of the Daylesford Macedon region.

Wombat Botanical Garden. Photo by Ben Gardiner

VISITOR GUIDE | 3

Passing Clouds Winery - Musk

FOOD & WINE Life is really about food and wine, and our region has a bountiful collection of the finest food, rare breeds, cool climate wines, award winning produce and more.

Explore farm gates, farmers’ markets, cellar doors and hatted restaurants; meet farmers, vignerons and restaurateurs who are dedicated to growing, producing and serving the very best that the Daylesford Macedon region has to oer.

VISITOR GUIDE | 5

The chocolate-brown, metre-deep topsoil that surrounds our old volcanoes grows some of the best potatoes on the planet and lambs so plump they almost roll around the paddocks. The historic villages in the region are home to some of the best restaurants in the state from fine dining establishments to family friendly cafés and wineries.

This superbly fertile farmland gives way to the granite country of the ranges, where massive boulders are strewn like giants’ marbles. This hard but beautiful country makes the grapevines concentrate their aroma into fewer intensely flavoured grapes, hence our award-winning cool climate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and sparkling Blanc de Noir.

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We don’t have big businesses dominating our wine industry, just families making wine in old woolsheds, 18th century bluestone buildings and brand spanking new architect designed cellar doors.

With such great produce it’s no wonder that some of the nation’s best artisan bakers, cheesemakers, charcutiers and even boutique vegetable growers have planted roots and opened their doors across the Daylesford Macedon region.

Pack a picnic rug, bring a few glasses and come and spend some time with us exploring the glorious countryside and making a few new friends.

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The 2018 Halliday Australian Wine Companion featured many of our local wineries – here are James’ best wineries of the Macedon Ranges and neighbouring wine regions.

Eastern Peake – Ballarat Wine Region

Macedon Ranges Wine Region: 5 star rating

Age Good Food Guide 2018 Awards

Bindi Wines (Gisborne) Butlers Lane of Glenlyon (Glenlyon) Cloudscape (Drummond) Curly Flat (Lancefield) Farrawell Wines (Lancefield)

Mitchell Harris – Ballarat Wine Region Tomboy Hill – Ballarat Wine Region Balgownie – Bendigo

Lake House, Daylesford (2 hats) Source Dining, Kyneton (1 hat) Midnight Starling, Kyneton (1 hat) The Public Inn, Castlemaine (1 hat)

Granite Hills (Baynton)

Wine Tours Take your pick from the following:

Hanging Rock Winery (Newham)

winetours.com.au

Passing Clouds (Musk) Virgin Hills (Kyneton) Neighbouring wine regions: 5 star rating

theregionalwanderer.com.au daylesfordwinetours.com bespokewinetours.com.au

Dulcinea (Sulky) – Ballarat Wine Region Bress (Harcourt) – Bendigo Wine region Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

VISITOR GUIDE | 7

RedBeard is famous for its organic, sourdough bread, baked in a huge wood-fired,19th century masonry ‘scotch’ oven.

Watch the artisan bakers at work. Enjoy delicious, contemporary Australian café food with excellent coffee, local wines, beers and ciders. Take home a loaf fresh out of the oven.

RedBeard Historic Bakery is a year-round destination, open Friday to Monday, including most public holidays, with a warm interior for winter and shady courtyard for summer. RedBeard is fully licensed, with a menu featuring local organic produce in season.

RedBeard is committed to supporting small local farmers and producers.

RedBeard is proud to be part of the growing Food Sovereignty movement in Australia, working to create a sustainable, fair and resilient agricultural sector for our future.

Few bakeries in Australia create handmade, organic, sourdough bread.

Even fewer use a 140-year-old scotch oven. RedBeard’s simple doughs of organic flours, salt and water are handshaped using traditional techniques, and transformed by the alchemy of natural wild fermentation and wood fired baking into a range of loaves of outstanding colour, texture and flavour.

“The best bakery in the world. This is all about heart, passion and a love for making great bread.”

George Calombaris MasterChef

Extend your experience by taking a fascinating, behind-the-scenes, guided tour of the historic bakery. Large groups must book ahead.

Sunday workshops - where you can mix, shape and bake your own sourdough.

Home baking equipment is available to purchase. Midweek workshops for groups larger than four. Bookings are essential.

Regular Sunday sourdough baking workshops or special weekday group baking workshops - contact Trentham Neighbourhood Centre: admin@trenthamnc.org.au 03 5424 1354

Group enquiries for weekday tours contact John Reid Bakery/café telephone 03 5424 1002 We can take cafe table bookings for weekdays but not for weekends. www.redbeardbakery.com.au info@redbeardbakery.com.au Tel 0400 101 596 or 03 5424 1107 38A High Street Trentham Victoria

Opposite Trentham’s town square, follow the laneway off High St to the red ‘Bakery’ bollards.

FRESH IS BEST Visiting the local farmers’ market has become the cornerstone of a foodie’s weekend and generally a far more interactive and entertaining way to purchase your weekly provisions. Have a coffee and sample before you buy. Our farmers’ markets connect communities and give visitors a chance to shop as a local. Buy directly from the people who grow and make their produce; taste some of the regional specialities or talk to the growers and producers – if you’re looking for authentic, handmade and regional, or are just after a bargain then we certainly have a market for you.

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Ballan Farmers’ Market 96 Inglis Street, Ballan 2nd Saturday each month 9am–1pm Castlemaine Farmers’ Market Victory Park, Castlemaine 1st Sunday each month 9am–1pm Creswick Market Victoria Street, Creswick 3rd Saturday each month 9am–1pm

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Clunes Farmers’ Market Fraser Street, Clunes 2nd Sunday each month 9am–1pm

Lancefield Farmers’ Market High Street, Lancefield 4th Saturday each month (except December, 3rd Saturday) Daylesford Farmers’ Market 9am-1pm Vincent Street, Daylesford 1st Saturday each month Riddells Creek Farmers’ 9am–1pm Market 67 Gisborne-Kilmore Road, Kyneton Farmers’ Market Riddells Creek Piper Street, Kyneton 3rd Saturday each month 2nd Saturday each month (except December) 8am–1pm 9am–1pm

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Talbot Farmers’ Market Scandinavian Cres, Talbot 3rd Sunday each month 9am – 1pm Trentham Farmers’ Market High Street, Trentham 3rd Saturday each month 9am–1pm Woodend Farmers’ Market High Street, Woodend 1st Saturday each month 9am–1pm

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Kim Selby Photography

WHO DOESN’T LOVE A GREAT FESTIVAL? Arts, culture, food, wine and music - this region has an abundance of ingredients for a fabulous calendar of festivals and events all year round, rich in diversity and full of passion. Our festivals and events provide experiences to be relished and enjoyed with families and friends.

Discover the magic of international concerts at Hanging Rock, finest artists at the Castlemaine State Festival, signature wines at Budburst Festival or a love of books at Clunes Booktown. Be part of ChillOut, Australia’s biggest and longestrunning Country Queer Pride event.

Enjoy stunning program of concerts, exhibitions and more at the Woodend Winter Arts Festival.

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And if you’re after something a little quirky, there’s the Trentham Spudfest, celebrating all things potato; or perhaps the iconic Australia Day Hanging Rock Races is more your style. Whatever the season and whatever your interest, this is a region with a reputation that delivers.

For a full calendar of events visit: daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au

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“ Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. “ Thomas Merton

Artist - Tia Alysse

Art to Explore

Artlights to explore Bromley & Co – Daylesford bromleyandco.com

A truly distinctive place where painters, sculptors, printmakers, photographers, filmmakers and artisans, you name it, are continually drawing inspiration from the world around them – and you will too.

Step into the art zone by visiting the many independent galleries and artist-run spaces and soon you’ll be chatting to the makers and getting the inside story on the local burgeoning arts scene. Challenge your inner creative self by taking one of the many workshops, or classes throughout the area and guaranteed you won’t feel like just an observer, you will instantly feel part of the thriving artistic zone.

Try your hand at chair or bucketmaking at Rundell & Rundell; or one of the many workshops at The Old Auction House; guitar making at Wildwood Instruments; book in for an ‘art of food and wine’ class at Lake House, explore the metal art at Overwrought Sculpture Garden & Gallery or a sausage making class at Piper Street Food Company. Whatever you choose, you will feel completely satisfied from learning something completely new.

For more information go to visitvictoria.com.au/dmr

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The Convent Gallery – Daylesford conventgallery.com.au Stony Creek Gallery – Daylesford stonycreekgallery.com.au Stockroom – Kyneton stockroomspace.com Macedon Art Trail visitmacedonranges.com/arts-culture DMR Open Studios dmropenstudios.com.au Castlemaine Art Museum castlemainegallery.com Overwrought Sculpture and Garden Gallery Blampied overwrought.com.au The Old Auction House - Kyneton theoldauctionhouse.com.au Gold Street Studios - Trentham East goldstreetstudios.com.au

How about that?

The Stokes Museum,located in the heart of Mt Macedon’s wonderful Forest Glade Gardens, houses one of the finest private art collections of 18th and 19th century decorative art (porcelain, marble and bronze) in the Southern Hemisphere.

Pieces created by Flynn Silver’s Designs in Kyneton can be found in Buckingham Palace, the White House and the Vatican. They have also graced international events including both the Commonwealth Games and the Formula One World Championships. True!

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The Convent Daylesford Open 10am - 4pm daily | t 03 5348 3211 7 Daly St, Daylesford VIC 3460 info@theconvent.com.au conventgallery.com.au

Daylesford’s award-winning art gallery, restaurant & function centre

Gallery Cafe Museum Cocktail Lounge Bar Retail Chapel Six Acres of Gardens

18 | & V IMae, S I T OTrentham R GUIDE Frankie

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TIME TO GO SHOPPING Do you, your home or your garden need a make-over? We challenge you to visit the Daylesford Macedon region and not find what you are looking for. Lovers of all things fine are drawn to this part of Victoria to explore the many stalls, bazaars and emporiums looking for quality, unique, luxurious, handcrafted, limited edition all that is new and shiny.

Find your new look!

For that ‘wow’ factor, you will find normally hard to source, stylish items like tartan carpets, highland cattle rugs, original lead lights and even antique milliners’ blocks. Visitors to your home won’t believe their eyes!

Alpaca Passion, Daylesford

Any living or dining area will benefit from a visit to the variety of local retail shops where you will fall in love with locally-made exquisite ceramics, pottery and glassware on show. Simply gorgeous! Or maybe your garden is looking or smelling very ordinary? If that’s the case, cruise to the selection of nurseries selling exotic, rare and definitely not-your-average plants. For those true foodies that view cooking and gardening as a true marriage, go on take the plunge, meet the growers and makers of the delicious local produce and quality food items.

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Let some of our region’s most inspiring fashionistas help you find your own look.

Store by Sarah Connors, Daylesford Harry and Me, Daylesford Frankie & Mae, Trentham Creswick Woollen Mill, Creswick, Daylesford Country Habit, Kyneton Portal 108, Hepburn Springs The Farmer’s Wife, Creswick The Corner Store, Castlemaine

Create your own grand design!

Some of our region’s great designers can help you on your journey of discovery.

Mollisons, Kyneton Kim Clifford Interiors, Daylesford Argyle & Mason Homewares, Daylesford Dunbarlo Interiors, Daylesford Daylesford Interiors, Daylesford

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Stay - Dine - Relax

HOTEL FRANGOS D AY L E S F O R D

8 2 V I N C E N T ST R E E T DAY L E S F O R D 3 4 6 0 V I CTO R I A AU ST R A L I A E: info@hotelfrangos.com.au T: +61 3 5348 2363 W W W. H OT E L F R A N G O S .C O M . AU @hotelfrangosdaylesford

hotelfrangosdaylesford

INDULGE YOUR SENSES Home to Australia’s greatest concentration of natural mineral springs, this region has long been regarded as a special place of healing, making it a perfect destination for experiences that relax the mind, soothe the body and nurture the soul.

With its long spa tradition, and every kind of luxury, this is the perfect place for an indulgent escape. Rejuvenate in the nutrient rich waters and indulge at boutique spa resorts, luxury accommodation and day spas.

As a haven for health and wellbeing, here you can indulge in more than 200 types of wellness therapies and treatments. Follow the signs for massages and spa treatments, as well as more alternative therapies – reiki, shiatsu, Bowen therapy, reflexology to name a few.

Or perhaps you’re looking for yoga, meditation, tai chi, or maybe some direction from a tarot card or astrology reading. This region caters for all interests, boasting the highest concentration massage therapists in the Southern Hemisphere.

Seek these out: DAYLESFORD DAY SPA 25 Albert Street, Daylesford daylesforddayspa.com.au EKO SKIN CARE SPA 1 Camp Street, Daylesford ekospa.com.au HEPBURN BATHHOUSE & SPA Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs hepburnbathhouse.com MINERAL SPA AT PEPPERS MINERAL SPRINGS HOTEL 124 Main Road, Hepburn Springs mineralspa.com.au SALUS SPA AT LAKE HOUSE 4 King Street, Daylesford lakehouse.com.au

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ENDOTA DAYLESFORD Cnr Vincent Street & Central Springs Road, Daylesford endotaspa.com.au SHIZUKA RYOKAN 7 Lakeside Drive, Hepburn Springs shizuka.com.au MAIAVEDA HOLISTIC DAY SPA 18 Piper Street, Kyneton maiaveda.com.au ELLENIS DAY SPA 39 High Street, Kyneton ellenis.com.au DAYLESFORD HEALING MASSAGE 5/11 Howe Street, Daylesford healingmassage.com.au

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Mineral Water Springs – yours for the tasting In days gone by, it was the allure of gold that drew people to this verdant land.

Today, it’s the elixir of life. Water. Or more specifically, the underground network of natural mineral aquifers that are more abundant here than anywhere else in Australia. In fact, 85% of the country’s natural mineral springs are found in this region.

The natural mineral springs bring life to this region, evident in the lushness of the landscapes and the very special tastiness of the produce grown in the mineral rich earth. It’s no coincidence that the words bio-dynamic, organic and natural apply to so many of the area’s food and wine producers, and why their produce is sought after by anyone who cares about what they eat and drink.

It’s called mineral water for a reason.

Sourced from nature, the abundance of mineral springs in this region possess naturally occurring essential minerals that have been lauded for their health benefits for centuries.

Most of the region’s natural springs are located in the areas surrounding Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and Kyneton, with many located on public land where the water can be tasted and pumped directly from the ground.

Taste the waters for yourself: Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve features a number different tasting springs including Soda Spring, Locarno Spring, Sulphur Spring, Wyuna Spring and Argyle Spring (Mineral Springs Crescent, Hepburn Springs).

Kyneton Mineral Springs Reserve - Burton Avenue, Kyneton Wombat Flat Mineral Spring - Lake Daylesford (access via King Street) Glenlyon Mineral Springs Reserve - Malmsbury-Daylesford Road, Glenlyon Central Springs Reserve - Lake Daylesford (access via Fulcher Street) Jubilee Spring - Lake Jubilee, Daylesford Vaughan Springs - Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

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WALKING & HIKING Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a strenuous hike, this region provides many options. Trek through the region’s spectacular surrounds, from the magnificent Trentham Falls to Mount Franklin’s awesome volcanic crater to the iconic Hanging Rock. Make your way up to the Memorial Cross pinnacle in the Macedon Regional Park. Scale rugged rockfaces in Wombat State Forest or the 300-metre gorge in Lerderderg State Park.

MACEDON REGIONAL PARK Over 400 species of native plants have been recorded in the Macedon Regional Park and more than 200 species of birds and a wide variety of mammals can be found here including koalas, kangaroos, swamp wallabies, wombats, possums and gliders.

There is ample opportunity to explore the Park on foot via a series of walks that make up the Macedon Ranges Walking Track. parkweb.vic.gov.au HEPBURN REGIONAL PARK Located around the famous mineral springs townships of Daylesford, Hepburn and Hepburn Springs. Here you will find natural mineral springs and relics of the gold mining era set in delightful bush surroundings. parkweb.vic.gov.au SECRET FOREST WALKS Experience the beauty and seclusion of the Wombat Forest, assisted by GPS technology. No clubs or tours, just you and the company of your choice, or solo if you wish. Choose from a selection of carefully mapped bushwalks in the Wombat Forest according to your tastes and abilities. secretforestwalks.com GOLDFIELDS TRACK The Goldfields Track is a point to point 210km track stretching from Ballarat in the south to Bendigo in the north. It passes through some of the region’s most historic towns and beautiful forests, including Creswick, Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and Castlemaine. You can hike the whole track or split it into smaller sections. goldfieldstrack.com.au For more information call into a local Visitor Information Centre.

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Malmsbury Viaduct

CYCLING No matter the type of riding you love, there is the perfect trail, track or quiet road awaiting your adventure.

GOLDFIELDS TRACK The Goldfields Track is an historic point to point 210km track stretching from Ballarat in the south to Bendigo in the north, through some of the region’s most historic towns and beautiful forests, including Creswick, Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and Castlemaine. The track was constructed by gold settlers over 150 years ago and today is well

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known amongst cyclers and walkers. The Wallaby Track section will take you from Mt Buninyong through to Daylesford.

This 90km track is for fit and confident riders and can be done in one day.

Keen mountain bikers and history buffs love the ‘Dry Diggings’ section from the Chocolate Mill in Dry Diggings through to Vaughan Springs and on to Castlemaine. goldfieldstrack.com.au

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MACEDON REGIONAL PARK The fire tracks on the side of Mt Macedon range from flat trails that are gentle enough to allow you to teach little kids to ride bikes (say in the Macedon Scout Camp area) to rocky, white-knuckle descents (such as Barber’s Chute Track).

These tracks are well drained and are a good option when it’s wet. parkweb.vic.gov.au WOMBAT FOREST Near Woodend, you’ll discover 100km of purpose-built single track winding through beautiful forest. Built by the local Wombat Mountain Bike Club, the trails suit beginner to expert riders and are accessible year-round. dannatial.wixsite.com/wombat HARCOURT (LA LARR BA GAUWA PARK) Best for experienced mountain bikers, but with easier trails for beginners as well, this is a world class destination for riders.

Expertly built by the team at DirtArt, the trails make the most of the hilly, granite country side. An easy drive from Melbourne or train to Castlemaine, this is mountain bike heaven. lalarrbagauwa.harcourt.vic.au CRESWICK Also easily accessed from Melbourne, Creswick is positioning itself as the next mountain biking mecca. The newlybuilt pump track in town is arguably Australia’s best, there are many great

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XC options such as the RACV Goldfields Resort track, and construction on a topnotch 100km trail network is expected to be complete by 2020. vogacycleclub.com.au FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRAIL Romsey to Lancefield and return A leisurely 1 hour ride, this trail mostly travels along a dedicated shared path for cyclists and pedestrians.

Enjoy expanses of rolling farmland, classic Australian architecture and treat yourself at one of Lancefield or Romsey’s cafes or restaurants. Start and finish at the Lions Park Reserve, Romsey.

ROAD RIDE Three Town Scenic Route (Woodend, Trentham, Kyneton) This ride is a great opportunity to explore a large part of the region in a single loop that joins Woodend, Trentham and Kyneton. Great from either direction, this ride gives you open farmland, tree lined country lanes and undulating leafy roads. Suggested start and finish Woodend Train Station.

For more information visit strava or call into a local Visitor Information Centre. strava.com/clubs/ridemacedonranges visitmacedonranges.com/see-do/getactive/cycling/

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“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.�

Greek Proverb

The Dudley Boutique Hotel - Hepburn Springs

GARDENS There’s a major obsession with gardens in this region.

With a climate that gives us four distinct seasons, along with ample rain and fertile soils, it’s the dedication of local green thumbs that has resulted in the many historic gardens that flourish throughout the Daylesford Macedon region. And they love to show them off. Visit the immaculate gardens dotted around and get a taste of life for Melbourne’s elite in the nineteenth century.

Public spaces In the 1850s, every Victorian town wanted a botanic garden to elevate its status, educate its residents about plants of the region and provide a tranquil haven away from the growing and bustling cities. The botanic gardens in this region are historic, varied and great spots to visit if you are a keen gardener, outdoor enthusiast or with family and friends.

Some of the region’s oldest gardens Forest Glade, Mt Macedon

The region’s botanic gardens Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens (est 1860). Located in Daylesford, these Gardens feature an outstanding collection of rare and notable specimens, many of which are included in the National Trust Register of Significant Trees.

Kyneton Botanic Gardens (est 1858). Plant collections include Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) and Quercus (Oak).

Gisborne Botanic Gardens (est 1992). Features many New Zealand plant types with Hebe and Pittosporum to name a few.

Malmsbury Botanic Gardens (est 1850). The focal point of the gardens is the Ornamental Lake with the formed island at its centre.

Castlemaine Botanical Gardens (est 1860). Home to an impressive collection of established native and exotic trees, with a beautiful ornamental lake.

Tieve Tara, Mt Macedon Garden of St Erth, Blackwood Frogmore, Newbury

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34 | V I S I T O R G U I D E Wildwood Instruments - Mt Franklin

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CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS This region is fast becoming a home to growing range of classes and workshops, providing you with plenty of opportunities to explore your creative side and discover the joys of making it yourself.

Whether it’s a cooking class, learning the skills of dry stone walling or making your own chair, there is literally something for everyone!

You’ll find courses that run for just an hour through to intensive workshops that are spread over a number of days, together with instructors who are passionate about their trade and sharing their knowledge and skills with you.

Perfect for those seeking to get away by themselves and indulge in something new, or for a group of friends planning a trip away together and looking for a fun way to fill in an afternoon, enrolling in a class or workshop is a great way to meet like-minded people, unwind in a relaxed and casual environment and, ultimately, come away with a new skill.

Keep in mind that many of these classes and workshops book out quickly, so be sure to plan your trip away well in advance

Highly recommended Piper Street Food Co 89A Piper Street, Kyneton piperstfoodco.com

Daylesford Macedon Produce All of Region dmproduce.com.au/events-calendar

The Fermentary 11/57 Leitches Creek Road, Daylesford thefermentary.com.au

RedBeard Bakery 38A High Street, Trentham redbeardbakery.com.au

Rundell & Rundell 29 Piper Street, Kyneton rundellandrundell.com.au

Red Door Gallery on Fraser 69 Fraser Street, Clunes reddoorgalleryonfraser.com

Lake House King Street, Daylesford lakehouse.com.au/whats-on/cookingschool

Wildwood Instruments 1 Phillips Rd, Mount Franklin wildwoodinstruments.com.au

The Old Auction House 52-56 Mollison Street, Kyneton theoldauctionhouse.com.au

For more classes and workshops across our region, visit: www.visitvictoria.com/regions/ daylesford-and-the-macedon-ranges/ things-to-do/classes-and-workshops

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Lake House Daylesford – “A masterclass in how to do it right” Good Food Guide, Australia

Two Chefs Hats The Australian Wine List Hall of Fame Australia’s Regional Hotel of the Year The Australian Hot 50 Restaurants Australia’s Top 50 Hotels Australia’s Best Food & Wine Experience

#lakehousedaylesford

lakehousedaylesford

King Street, Daylesford, VIC 3460 Australia

lakehouse.com.au

+61 3 5348 3329

info@lakehouse.com.au

Love is love Award-winning venues, accommodation, local produce, food & wine.

Make it magical in Victoria’s most Romantic Destination.

@daylesfordmacedonweddings daylesfordmacedonweddings.com.au 38 | V I S I T O R G U I D E

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WEDDINGS The Daylesford Macedon region is regarded as Victoria’s most romantic destination.

We are the home of some of the most sought after wedding venues in Victoria with locations as diverse as this region is beautiful. Just over an hour from Melbourne, we are the dream location for couples looking to tie the knot. Rustic or elegant, quirky or traditional, intimate or luxurious – whatever your heart desires.

What kind of wedding are you?

A Country Wedding A blue expanse of sky, paddocks of green as far as the eye can see and the two of you getting married under the dappled shade of a statuesque oak tree. A country wedding is all about a backdrop of rip-your-heart-out natural beauty. It’s relaxed, filled with bales of hay, rambling roses, gum trees and gales of laughter.

A Church Wedding From an intimate bluestone church sitting nonchalantly in a paddock to lofty or broody churches, intimately small chapels or magnificently stately – we have them all. Decorated simply or elegantly, church weddings provide for those seeking a traditional wedding with spiritual, ecclesiastical and serene peacefulness.

A Winery Wedding Grapevines aplenty, spectacular views, historic homesteads, expanses of mountains or trees - imagine your wedding ceremony set amongst breathtaking views at one of our region’s many wineries. Choose from boutique vineyards, quirky wineries or any number of our larger iconic wineries. And of course, the toast to the happy couple and the provision of good wine is simply a given!

Visit daylesfordmacedonweddings.com.au

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Just over an hour from Melbourne and surrounded by rolling farmland, pretty villages and beautiful forest, our region is breathtakingly beautiful.

Explore our rich Swiss-Italian history, culture and architecture.

Dine out at our acclaimed restaurants, congenial gastro pubs, rustic trattorias, vineyard eateries, and cosy cafÊs. You might dine simply, you might dine lavishly, but you will dine on food produced by chefs who are proud to link local producers with the region’s visitors.

Visit dmproduce.com.au to find out more, and put fresh produce, great food, award-winning wines, boutique beers, gins and sparkling ciders on the menu for your next weekend away.

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Lawson Lodge, Mt Macedon

Gisborne to Lancefield, Woodend to Mt Macedon Gisborne . Gisborne South . New Gisborne . Clarkefield . Riddells Creek Monegeetta . Daraweit Guim . Macedon . Mt Macedon . Cherokee Kerrie . Hesket . Romsey . Woodend . Newham . Lancefield . Rochford Mount Macedon’s greatness is visible from all parts of this region. Known as Geburrh in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, Mount Macedon was named in 1836

by Major Thomas Mitchell.

Today, Mount Macedon is home to some of the country’s most magnificent historic and private gardens. It is also crowned by the historic Memorial Cross, which each ANZAC Day plays host to one of the largest and most moving Dawn Services in Victoria.

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A short drive to the village of Macedon brings you to the spectacular Honour Avenue, with its magnificent oaks that honour the 154 local men and women of Macedon and Mount Macedon who enlisted for service during the First World War. One of the best times of the year to visit this area is as the season changes, when nature puts on a stunning display of autumn colour that is second to none.

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Not far from Mt Macedon is the ethereal and iconic Hanging Rock, made famous in the classic Australian film Picnic at Hanging Rock, adapted from the novel of the same name by Joan Lindsay.

The nearby village of Woodend is a perfect staging post to explore this area further with its enticing mix of cafĂŠs, stores and the famous Holgate Brewhouse, where a drop of ale of just the thing! The local Visitor Information Centre has the latest information on all things worth discovering.

Lancefield is at the geographic heart of Victoria, and whilst modern day fossicking is encouraged in the local galleries, antique

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stores and more, it’s also the place for anyone with an interest in something a tad older. Did you know that a wealth of important paleontological finds have been unearthed here from extinct megafauna including Macropus titan (a kangaroo-like animal twice the size of today’s largest relative) and Diprotodon (a rhinoceros-sized wombat lookalike)?

Outdoor pursuits are in abundance here, with a rousing round of golf at the Gisborne Golf Course under the gaze of the grazing kangaroos highly recommended.

Find out more: visitmacedonranges.com

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Catherine Crothers Big Tree Distillery is the result of a ginloving husband and wife team who love good gin so much they decided to make their own. Introducing Catherine Crothers, Big Tree Distillery from the dynamic duo, who are devoted to bringing you a genuinely home-grown and delicious award-winning gin. Here are their local’s tips; Lancefield is our destination of choice for coffee. We love Rafael’s Coffee; Raf is a barista and has a boutique roastery and roasts coffee to order. Rafael’s coffee can be found in many of the local cafes around the area and at the Woodend and Lancefield Farmers Markets serving up delicious brews.

Macedon) from Straws Lane. The view from the top is extraordinary, and you see our whole valley overlooking Hanging Rock and looking over to the Cobaw Ranges.

For a special meal, we love Kuzu Izakaya in Anslow Street in Woodend. The food and atmosphere are sensational, we are so very proud to have a restaurant of their calibre in Woodend, the team at Kuzu do an excellent job.

Macedon Ranges is a very peaceful place, and there are many beautiful places to visit, have superb food, enjoy a gin and a wine (or two) and kick back and relax.

In the early morning, the best thing to do is walk up to Camels Hump (Mount Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

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Budburst

Tag|Winery us #wellbeingregion Parkside 48 VIS ITOR GUIDE

Tag your photos #wellbeingregion Woodberry - Woodend

Out & About Camels Hump

Memorial Cross

The Camels Hump is the highest point in the Macedon Ranges (1,001 metres), with a lookout offering visitors spectacular views. This is one of three local rocky outcrops formed by volcanic action millions of years ago. Generally quieter than Hanging Rock, your dog is welcome too.

Travel 4km along Cameron Drive from the summit of Mount Macedon Road. The 21m high Memorial Cross is located 200m from the carpark. This imposing, iconic structure commemorates those who bravely served in the World Wars. There are outstanding views of the surrounding country from the Reserve.

Start of Cameron Drive, Mt Macedon

Cameron Drive, Mt Macedon

Conglomerate Gully Walk

Romsey Village

Riddells Creek’s best kept secret, Conglomerate Gully is a magnificent rocky gorge, estimated to be about 440 million years old. The 2.8 kilometre walk will weave you through a hilly eucalypt forest with native grasslands and orchids in the spring time.

The track is steep and rocky in parts.

A pretty spot to visit with an eclectic mix of food, wine, shopping, history and heritage.

Its historic red brick buildings line a spacious main street giving it an English village feel.

Surrounding fertile countryside is ideal for cattle and sheep grazing and other agricultural pursuits. Pop into Verdure for coffee, Soltan Pepper for a quick bite to eat or Cuttings, Culinary & Botanica.

Wheelwrights Road, Riddells Creek Gisborne Olde Time Market Glorious food and wine, fresh produce, quality handmade items, arts and crafts, clothing, accessories, jewellery, books, plants and fresh flowers. 1st Sunday of the month 9am-2pm Hamilton and Aitkens Street, Gisborne Hanging Rock Reserve Hanging Rock, formed six million years ago, is said to be one of the best examples in the world of a volcanic feature known as a mamelon. The reserve offers many great experiences such as walks up the rock, Australian native wildlife, picnic areas, an annual film night under the stars, horse racing and concerts.

South Rock Road, Newham Daily 9am-5pm, entry $10 a car 1800 244 711

Main Street, Romsey Sanatorium Lake Eco-Tourism Trail Perfect for a family stroll, with many natural features to see on 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 includes tall eucalypt forests and a wet fern gully.

Lions Head Road, Mt Macedon Woodend Children’s Park Woodend Children’s Park covers one hectare on the banks of Five Mile Creek. It has an eight metre climbing wall, a breathtaking flying fox, sheltered areas, barbecues, fenced playground for toddlers and space for children to run. The park fits beautifully into the landscape and uses native hardwood and stone.

12 Nicholson Street, Woodend

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Rustic Charm Winery Experience Cleveland Winery Resort offers a unique winery stay experience. Surrounded by corridors of vines, country gardens and sweeping views, the 1890s Homestead is the centre piece of the property. An underground cellar door features an extensive range of wine, open every weekend from 11am.

Enjoy a wine tasting, indulge in a cheese platter or savor the freedom to wander the winery grounds.

T: (03) 5429 9000 W: clevelandwinery.com.au

Cleveland winery resort & events

Prestige Retreats

| ACCOMMODATION | RESTAURANT | UNDERGROUND CELLAR DOOR | WEDDINGS | EVENTS |

Hanging Rock Winery Hanging Rock Winery has been creating wines of distinction for over 30 years and is rated as a coveted 5 Red Star Winery by James Halliday for being an ‘Outstanding winery regularly producing wines of exemplary quality and typicity’.

It’s the largest in the Macedon Ranges, with their cellar door boasting an extensive award-winning range that showcases their own estate wines and others made from premium grapes from the best regions in Victoria.

While you’re there, treat yourself to an extra bottle or two, along with a gourmet picnic box or cheese board and grab a spot on their deck or lawns – it’s the perfect place to while away the afternoon, taking in the iconic backdrop of their vineyard, Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon.

Passion and expertise has resulted in an exciting and extensive range of wines which they hope will bring you as much joy as it does them. You may even go home with some of their estate grown, grass fed, 2 year old Hanging Rock Beef.

Open 7 Days (except Christmas Day & Good Friday) from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

88 Jim Road Newham | 03 5427 0542 hrw@hangingrock.com.au | hangingrock.com.au

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Plan a day or a getaway Plan a day or a getaway

Inspired Inspired Itineraries Itineraries for for the the Macedon Macedon Ranges Ranges

VISITMACEDONRANGES.COM/ITINERARIES/ VISITMACEDONRANGES.COM/ITINERARIES/

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The Cravat Club Slip into one of our soft leather chairs with a glass of fine wine. Meet a local at the bar over a pint from one of our craft beer taps. Or catch up with friends in the sun-drenched courtyard and share cheese, terrine and charcuteries. 42 Anslow Street Woodend | 03 5427 2228 enquiries@thecravatclub.com.au | woodendwinestore.com.au

Holgate Brewhouse Full-flavoured authentic craft beer brewed on site in our family owned microbrewery. Sample the beer, enjoy a meal and stay a night or two in one of the beautifully refurbished guestrooms. Brand new Brewhouse and Visitor Centre opening soon!

79 High Street Woodend | 03 5427 2510 hotel@holgatebrewhouse.com | holgatebrewhouse.com

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Baringo Food and Wine Co Beautifully appointed, with stunning views, Baringo sits at the foothills of Mount Macedon in the picturesque Macedon Ranges. Now open 7 days a week. With a bistro, café, front bar, theatre and provedore, we offer something for everyone.

283 Station Road New Gisborne 03 5428 2144 | info@baringo.net.au | baringo.net.au

Cloud 9 Farm Family owned winery & cellar door. Farm produced wine & cheese. Enjoy what a small farm can do whilst taking in spectacular views.

204 Goochs Lane Pastoria | 0422 362 861 Info@cloud9farm.com.au | cloud9farm.com.au

Gardens of Tieve Tara Nestled on the eucalypt clad slopes of Mt Macedon is a truly remarkable oasis of beauty. The Gardens of Tieve Tara undulate across 7.5 acres of sweeping lawns, lakes & trees, with vibrant seasonal colours. Open Autumn and Spring.

751 Mt Macedon Road Mt Macedon info@gardensoftievetara.com.au gardensoftievetara.com.au

Ida Red If you love good food and a vibe, then enjoy our casual, fun and vibrant ‘city style’ restaurant and mini-bar. Ida Red specialises in artisan woodfire pizza, on an Italian style base with modern toppings.

16 Victoria Street Macedon | 03 5426 4888 eating@idared.com.au idared.com.au

Lawson Lodge Country Estate Private 9 hole golf course surrounds stunning accommodation for up to 24 guests. Cinema, spa, tennis, fishing & sports bar compliments this ultimate getaway for friends, family celebrations, conferences & weddings.

227 Lawson Road Macedon | 03 5426 1551 enquiries@lawsonlodge.com.au | lawsonlodge.com.au

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Lyons Will Estate Our award-winning boutique winery produces quality and minimalist wines. Specialising in Riesling, Chardonnay, Gamay & Pinot Noir, it’s a must-do when in the Macedon Ranges.

Cheese & Charcuterie boards available.

60 Whalans Track Lancefield | 0412 681 940 info@lyonswillestate.com.au | lyonswillestate.com.au

Macedon Ranges Hotel & Spa An easy one-hour drive from Melbourne; your ideal choice for your next weekend escape, wedding, conference or as a base for exploring all this beautiful region has to offer.

652 Black Forest Drive Macedon 03 5426 4044 | sales@macedonrangeshotelspa.com.au macedonrangeshotelspa.com.au

Mount Towrong Vineyard Family operated vineyard on the picturesque slopes of Mount Macedon, adopting sustainable principles to produce predominately Italian varietals. Come try our wines and rustic Italian food at the cellar door.

4 Taylors Road Mount Macedon | 0488 155 088 wine@mounttowrong.com.au | mounttowrong.com.au

The Regional Wanderer Eat, drink, play and discover in the Macedon Ranges. From food, wine, beer and gin to Hanging Rock, Australian wildlife, farm gates and more, you can choose your own adventure. Tours depart daily.

Pick up Macedon Ranges and Daylesford | 0447 477 402 theregionalwanderer.com.au

Rooks Edge B&B A contemporary B&B designed for luxury and privacy. A central point to wineries, restaurants, artisans, markets or outdoors.

1136 Bacchus Marsh Road Bullengarook | 0499 994 270 info@rooksedge.com.au | rooksedge.com.au

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Mount Macedon Winery Mount Macedon Winery boasts some of the region’s most diverse cool climate wines. Bring your friends and family (even your well-behaved pooch!) and enjoy a long lunch in the vines or a delicious cellar door tasting.

433 Bawden Road Mount Macedon | 03 5427 4172 info@mountmacedonwinery.com.au | mountmacedonwinery.com.au

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Super Lekker Craving a healthy natural grass-fed beef or freerange chicken burger? Enjoy in house to delicious disco vibes or takeaway. Superb veg options too!

2/99 High Street Woodend | 03 5417 6125 eating@idared.com.au | superlekker.com.au

The Victoria Hotel The oldest hotel in Woodend EST 1861 offers a generous menu and regional wine list, cosy double fireplace and beer garden. You will feel instantly at home.

67 -71 High Street Woodend | 03 5427 2721 info@thevictoriawoodend.com.au thevictoriawoodend.com.au

Verdure A smart casual eatery situated at the south-east gateway of the Macedon Ranges. Open for breakfast and lunch, our menu is fresh, simple, seasonal and where possible local, including wines.

106 Main Street, Romsey | 03 5429 6567 dine@verdurebistro.com.au | verdurebistro.com.au

The Wine Collective Wine. Food. Views. The Wine Collective cellar door showcases Macedon Ranges wines with tastings and an extensive wine list. Macedon Wine Room Restaurant reflects the seasons and features local produce.

652 Black Forest Drive Macedon | 03 5426 3030 bookings@macedonwineroom.com.au macedonwineroom.com.au

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Lake Daylesford

Daylesford, Hepburn Springs, Trentham & other delights Daylesford . Sailors Falls . Bullarto . Musk . Muskvale . Lyonville Trentham . Newbury . East Trentham . Eganstown . Coomoora Hepburn Springs . Wheatsheaf . Little Hampton . Glenlyon Spring Hill . Denver . Shepherds Flat . Porcupine Ridge . Mt Franklin If you’re attracted to a locale with a long history, then this is the land for you.

A wondrous region formed by volcanic activity more than five million years ago; volcanic plains that are the third largest in the world and are filled with 85 per cent of Australia’s natural mineral water

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springs. The Dja Dja Wurrung people, who occupied these lands for thousands of years, long-regarded these sites as a special place of healing. The promise and subsequent discovery of gold in 1851 brought new significance to the area where Lake Daylesford now runs deep.

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The well-preserved and restored buildings not only show the prosperity of the expanding towns, they also confirm the lasting influence of the Swiss-Italian miners who came to work the tunnel mines in the surrounding hills but stayed to work the lands. One of the best vantage points to view the rolling landscape is Pioneer Memorial Tower, officially opened in 1938 and located at the peak of Wombat Hill, Daylesford.

Make sure to gather up your energy and climb the 77 winding concrete steps to the top and breathe in the truly spectacular views and then retire to Wombat Hill House, an excellent café laden with yummy and fresh regional produce and drinks.

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The twin towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are often referred to as the ‘spa centre of Victoria’ – real favourites for weekend getaways – even if you don’t indulge in a spa treatment, there are plenty of beautiful walks, a fabulous foodie scene and a relaxed and irresistible arty vibe. With so much on offer and such a long history, it seems only natural that the Daylesford area draws such diverse visitors. It’s proud to be the hub for the Gay and Lesbian community, celebrated each year during the ChillOut Festival, the biggest and longest-running Country Queer Pride event in regional Australia.

For more information: visithepburnshire.com.au hepburnspringsvillage.com.au

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Jodi Flockhart Jodi Flockhart, one of the owners of Sault Restaurant, shares her passion for the region which she proudly calls home.

We spend a lot of time at our property Sault. 120 acres for the kids to roam and run. We have a large kitchen garden which our children adore. Over the summer months, they pick and devour the fresh sun-warmed strawberries straight from the garden.

We enjoy heading down to the Hepburn Mineral Springs. There is a terrific walking track that is lovely in the colder months. While there, we visit our local, the Hepburn General Store. I love sitting under the vines out the front and sipping on a coffee with a healthy granola cup and the morning paper.

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Wherever possible we source locally. All herbs used in our restaurant come from the Sault kitchen garden. We source meat from the Daylesford Meat Co. Our small goods are from the wonderful folk at Istra Smallgoods. Real Eggs are the best free-range eggs you could ever eat. Their yolks are as bright as the sun. Tonnas, the local fruit shop, supply our fruit and veggies. It’s a family business with heart.

The freshly baked goods made by Di Tonna are a must, and it’s hard to resist a sticky date pudding.

My top tip for visitors is to bring a basket when they shop in the region – it is foodie heaven!

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Out & About Lake Daylesford

Mineral Springs Reserve

One of Daylesford’s most loved landmarks, the iconic Lake Daylesford is a haven for local bird life and is a place for everyone of all ages to relax, enjoy a picnic, take a scenic walk and enjoy the glorious views it provides. Enjoy the views from The Boathouse Restaurant, or browse the shelves of a local institution, the Bookbarn, which specialises in rare and unusual second hand books.

Located at the northern end of town, these natural springs are home to the iconic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, an extensive network of bush walking tracks and BBQ facilities. The park has a collection of mineral springs, some flowing continuously, and others operated with a hand pump. Visitors are able to freely bottle their own bubbling mineral water from the springs which include Locarno, Soda, Sulphur and Wyuna.

Daylesford

Trentham Falls, Trentham

Hepburn Springs

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm

Jubilee Lake

Relax in the country, find tranquillity, breathe fresh air, listen to birdsong, be refreshed and enjoy the space and beautiful vistas at Lavandula. At its heart is the golden stone Rustico, a cluster of farm buildings constructed by Italians from Southern Switzerland who came to look for gold and stayed to farm.

Lavender is planted as crop art; in winter it’s trimmed and sculptural; at Christmas the lavender is in flower and is harvested through the heat of January by hand with sickles.

This lake is a stunning natural setting to be experienced from the bank or by paddleboat or canoe, which are both available for hire. This is a great location for walking, wildlife spotting, taking photos, fishing, or tickling your tastebuds with the fresh local mineral water. Make the most of your weekend and stay overnight camping or caravanning.

350 Hepburn-Newstead Road, Shepherds Flat Trentham Golf Club Surrounded by bushland and beautiful gardens, Trentham Golf Club offer a range of options to get into and keep playing golf. With a number of options for social golfers, summer golfers, or those who would just like green fee discounts for playing regularly.

54 Trentham Falls Rd, Trentham Hepburn Springs Golf Enjoy an undulating 18-hole course with manicured fairways and grass greens in peaceful bushland with a layout that is both challenging and inviting for a novice. Fine-looking surrounding valleys, forests and hills with abundant wildlife also sharing the course.

Golf Links Road, Hepburn Springs

Jubilee Lake Road, Daylesford Mount Franklin Reserve Mount Franklin, or Lalgambook, as it is known by the Dja Dja Wurrung people, is an extinct volcano offering fine views on the approach to the summit. The sheltered crater is a superb place for a picnic or simple camping set amongst huge and pretty conifers and deciduous trees creating an exotic atmosphere. Mount Franklin is a fine example of a breached scoria cone. The breach, through which the road now enters the crater, is thought to have been caused by a flow of lava breaking through the crater rim.

Mt Franklin Trentham Falls The Trentham Falls is one of the longest single drop waterfalls in Victoria, dramatically plunging some 32 metres over basalt columns. Trentham Falls was formed five million years ago from molten lava rapidly cooling as it flowed along the old Coliban River valley. The Trentham Cascades are a short walk further north from the Falls Reserve carpark.

Falls Road, Trentham

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The Amazing Mill Markets Visit the Mill Markets in Ballarat, Daylesford & Geelong. Browse a fantastic variety of decor, furniture, records, vintage, retro fashion, books, fine china, glassware, industrial, jewellery, antiques, Australian pottery, memorabilia & collectables. Â 105 Central Springs Road Daylesford 03 5348 4332 daylesford@millmarkets.com.au millmarkets.com.au/daylesford

Artedeco Unique beautiful pieces from the past 100 years, Furniture, Lighting, Jewellery, Vintage Luxury goods, Art, Posters and Vintage and Designer fashion each piece personally selected in Europe, America and Australia.

Open Wednesday to Monday 10-5 (Tuesdays purely by chance or appointment) Shop 3 Vincent Street Daylesford 0407 321 865 artedeco.com.au Instagram artedeco_store

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Chocolate Mill Over 100 varieties of handcrafted chocolates made on site.

Sourced from fair-trade Belgian Couverture chocolate, no palm-oil & nothing artificial added.

Retail shop, cafe & kitchen viewing window. Award-winning hot chocolates, locally sourced espresso coffee, cakes and tarts & ice-cream sundaes made with Belgian chocolate!

5451 Midland Highway Mt Franklin 03 5476 4208 chocolatemill@yahoo.com.au chocmill.com.au

Daylesford Apothecary In the heart of Daylesford, our Apothecary is a place for both the magical and medicinal.

Experience our in-store naturopathic consultations and find both inner and outer beauty with our intentionally created naturopathic product range and crystal infused beauty tinctures.

8 Howe Street Daylesford 03 5348 2325 shop@daylesfordapothecary.com daylesfordapothecary.com

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ALPACA PASSION

72 Vincent Street, Daylesford 3460 | P 03 5348 1177 www.alpacapassion.com.au

Passion for Fleece Ten years ago, Alpaca Passion opened their first shop in Daylesford. Since then, a lot has changed in the town and the lives of the owners, Liz and Keith. They started Alpaca Passion in a small section of their shed on their alpaca farm in the Buckland Valley, in northeast Victoria. As interest grew for these captivating animals and the fleece they produced, they progressed to opening a store in Albury, NSW. Both businesses were performing so successfully that Liz decided she needed to finish her job for a local builder and dedicate all her attention to the alpacas.

As a parting gift, this local builder gave Liz a weekend getaway to the Lake House in Daylesford. Discovering the area for the first time in the depths of winter, Keith and Liz instantly saw the potential for their business and signed a lease in town.

At the time, Daylesford was not known for its shopping as it is today. “It’s been one of the most exciting changes to witness,” says Liz. “We love that now people come to town not only to visit the day spas, mineral springs and restaurants, but also to shop at all of the unique stores that are here, where they find things they don’t see anywhere else.” Over the years, Liz and Keith have expanded their range incredibly and now stock their own label, A.P. MODA, which Liz and her daughter Cassie design themselves.

“After ten years of driving back and forth between the farm and Daylesford,” Liz explains, Buckland Alpacas now calls Lauriston its home, and Liz splits her work days between there and Alpaca Passion. As anyone who has moved house would agree, it is never an enviable job, but having also moved over 100 alpacas plus all of their farm machinery, Liz and Keith are happy to have that behind them and are now just enjoying living in our beautiful area.

“We’ve always had amazing staff working in the shop for us, but I am so happy to be in the store every week, then go home to my alpacas,” says Liz. 72 Vincent St Daylesford | 03 5348 1177 alpacapassion.com.au Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

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Daylesford Spa Country Railway and Daylesford Sunday Market Run by the Daylesford Spa Country Railway, a volunteer non-profit community group, you’ll find this bustling market in full swing every Sunday at the historic Daylesford Railway Station.

Filled with an intriguing treasure trove of new and old items, local produce, arts and crafts, the market provides a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike. Every Sunday the Railway runs heritage train rides to Bullarto, the highest railway station in Victoria. On the first Saturday of the month, the Silver Streak food and wine train provides a first-class service with live music, drinks and finger-food served on board.

18 Raglan Street Daylesford | 0421 780 100 | enquiries@dscr.com.au | dscr.com.au

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Daylesford Country Retreats Daylesford Country Retreats is an exciting mix of properties showcasing the variety of accommodation available in the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area.

86 East Street Daylesford | 0417 542 065 reservations@dayburn.com.au | daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au

Daylesford Day Spa & Beauty ‘The Art of Relaxation’, Enjoy the deep, lasting benefits of total mind-body wellness with our range of signature rituals, facials, aromatherapy spas, body treatments, and massages.

Let our Beauty Salon take care of your nails, hair removal, lash & brows, Make-Up (Youngblood), tanning and more.

25 Albert Street Daylesford | 03 5348 2331 | enjoy@daylesforddayspa.com.au daylesforddayspa.com.au

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Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa

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Hepburn Springs’ only historic Bathhouse, has been providing traditional social bathing since 1895.

Drawing mineral rich waters directly from the source this iconic bathhouse reconnects you with an array of mineral wellness experiences including indulgent 100% pure private mineral baths and a selection of specifically designed wellness packages.

The original Edwardian bathhouse has undergone a $13 million makeover and boasts more than 30 wet and dry treatment rooms, making it one of the largest spas in the country. Enjoy indulgences ranging from the large public bathhouse or experience the more exclusive Sanctuary bathing which includes Aroma Steam Room, Magnesium Salt Therapy Pool, Relaxation Pool, Creekside Pool, Spa Couches submerged beneath mineral water and an extensive relaxation deck.

Further mineral wellness experiences also include therapeutic and relaxation massages, organic facials, and a selection of indulgent spa rituals. Experienced spa goers will appreciate the sophistication of their professional practitioners and extensive treatment menu.

Private Mineral Bathing rooms are also available with a selection of wellness herbs, salts and remedies. Luxury spa treatments and packages can be added to the mineral bathing experience for a complete wellness escape designed to let you reconnect.

Mineral Springs Reserve Road Hepburn Springs 03 5321 6000 | info@hepburnbathhouse.com | hepburnbathhouse.com

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Daylesford Healing Massage Daylesford’s only complete healing space for mind, body and soul. Indulge in one of our luxurious packages, enjoy a massage or healing session or browse our gift store, our focus is on inspiring and uplifting you and you will emerge relaxed, rejuvenated and at peace.

5/11 Howe Street Daylesford | 03 5348 1099 | enjoy@healingmassage.com.au healingmassage.com.au

The Dudley Boutique Hotel Built in 1908 as ‘Dudley House’, it has accommodated guests for over 100 years. After refurbishment, now known as The Dudley Boutique Hotel, is an award-winning accommodation in Hepburn Springs. Fit for guests who wish to escape in luxury, and indulge in style and sophistication.

101 Main Road Hepburn Springs | 03 5348 3033 | ask@thedudley.com.au | thedudley.com.au

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Hepburn Springs Escape Modern, boutique, architecturally designed and inspired accommodation. Immerse yourself in pure luxury at the Hepburn Springs Escape Villas adjacent to the award-winning Hepburn Bathhouse.

3 Forest Avenue Hepburn Springs | 03 5321 6000 info@hepburnbathhouse.com

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm Just north of Daylesford, Lavandula’s European-style gardens frame and meander around the original stone buildings. The farm provides a licensed cafÊ, gift shop and tours of the original farmhouse.

350 Hepburn-Newstead Road Shepherds Flat | 03 5476 4393 mail@lavandula.com.au | lavandula.com.au

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Portal 108 Voted on TripAdvisor as the No 1. shopping destination in Hepburn Springs, a visit to Portal 108 will have you discovering a curated collection of local and independent designers of women’s clothing, jewellery, footwear, handbags and homewares. A pooch-friendly store with a great big heart.

108 Main Road Hepburn Springs | 03 5348 4353 | info@portal108.com.au | portal108.com.au

The Secret Garden of Daylesford Enjoy a unique experience as you step into our secret garden full of visual delights guaranteed to inspire all. Attention to details and artistic displays is what sets us apart. Come in and enjoy.

14 Howe Street Daylesford | 0438 386 571 lousecret.mclachlan@gmail.com | secretgardendaylesford.com.au

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Shizuka Ryokan - Japanese country spa & wellness retreat Slip off your shoes and enter the tranquil world of the Japanese ryokan. Hospitality of honour.

Zen design. Tatami flooring. Sliding shoji paper screens.

7 Lakeside Drive Hepburn Springs | 03 5348 2030 info@shizuka.com.au | shizuka.com.au

Wombat Hill House Enchanting cafĂŠ in the Botanic Gardens. Simple, fresh seasonal menus focussing on local produce. Outdoor seating and puppies welcome. Take away & picnic baskets available.

9-4 Thursday to Monday.

Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. Entry off Central Springs Road at Stanhope Street Daylesford | 03 4373 0099 | sayhello@wombathillhouse.com.au | wombathillhouse.com.au

Lavandula, Shepherds Flat

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Butlers Lane Vineyard Butlers Lane Vineyard is a picturesque private estate of 40 acres featuring a lake, vineyards and forest. It is set in a rural hamlet, 10 minutes from Daylesford; central Victoria and an hour drive from Melbourne.

The function room has floor to ceiling windows and French doors that open onto a large wooden deck. Stairs lead down to the large gazebo with candlelit chandelier, a wood fired oven, landscaped gardens with stone walls, circular silver birch lawn and lake. Our function area can accommodate up to 100 seated guests and up to 200 for cocktail events.

Ceremonies and special occasions can be held under the rose arbour, gazebo, wrought iron arches or around the property. A photographer’s paradise; with spring fed bubbling brook, garden nooks, bridges, lake and manicured garden set amongst the backdrop of vines and Australian bush.

A beautiful canvas where you can infuse your own style to design the event of your dreams. We would be delighted to hear from you to discuss your function and can recommend preferred suppliers in the region to assist in your special day.

70 Butlers Lane Glenlyon | 0419 594 376 ButlersLaneVineyard@gmail.com | butlerslane.com.au

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A C C O M M O D A T I O N

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O YT DA O W T HO LL Y UT CA O RT D PE G N I O F KIN PR MA UR T O !

R Y EY TA ON NS M CA U YO

THE HOUSES DAYLESFORD PROVIDES BEAUTIFUL LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN THE HEART OF DAYLESFORD AND THE SURROUNDING MACEDON RANGES REGION. WITH SOME OF THE LARGEST AND MOST ICONIC HOLIDAY HOMES IN AUSTRALIA ON OUR PORTFOLIO, WE HAVE THE PERFECT PROPERTY TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS. WHETHER YOU'RE A COUPLE LOOKING FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY OR A LARGE CORPORATE GROUP, ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE SPECIALISTS CAN TAILOR A PACKAGE JUST FOR YOU.

STAY@THEHOUSESDAYLESFORD.COM 3 HOWE STREET, DAYLESFORD

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(03) 5348 2008

WWW.THEHOUSESDAYLESFORD.COM

Bistro Terroir Bistro Terroir, your neighbourhood French bistro. Serving classic French food and wines from France and Australia.

Bon Appétit!

6 Howe Street Daylesford | 0499 022 212 info@bistroterroir.com.au bistroterroir.com.au

Boathouse Restaurant @ Lake Daylesford Situated on the banks of beautiful Lake Daylesford, The Boathouse Restaurant is the perfect place for lunch or dinner over a glass of wine with family and friends.

2 Leggatt Street Daylesford | 03 5348 2199 info@boathousedaylesford.com.au boathousedaylesford.com.au

Daylesford Hotel This restored grand old dame in the heart of Daylesford offers great seasonal pub food celebrating regional produce with craft beers and an exceptional wine list.

Several dining areas, open fires, magnificent balcony to watch the sunset and large beer garden.

2 Burke Square Daylesford | 03 5348 2335 info@daylesfordhotel.com.au | daylesfordhotel.com.au

Cliffy’s Emporium Breakfast, lunch & boozy brunches are served in this legendary store - the original timber shelves are filled with local fresh produce, wine, mineral water, preserves and handmade wares.

30 Raglan Street Daylesford | 03 5348 3279 info@cliffysemporium.com.au cliffysemporium.com.au

Cosmopolitan Cellar & Store A wine store, tasting room, wine lounge and providore.

Featuring the very best of Macedon Ranges regional wine and local produce. Open Wed - Sun. Tastings every weekend.

Corner High Street and Cosmo Road Trentham 03 5424 1516 | enquiries@thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

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Old World Charm Meets Contemporary Luxe Only 2 minutes from the township of Daylesford, nestled on the doorstep to the Wombat State Forest in the heart of Hepburn Springs, Bellinzona Resort boasts elegant gardens, accommodation, an onsite restaurant showcasing local produce, indoor heated pool & inhouse wellness facilities. Enjoy a casual drink at Tastings, an onsite regional wine hub with local wine and seasonal bar menu.

T: (03) 5348 2271 W: bellinzona.com.au

Prestige Retreats

| ACCOMMODATION | RESTAURANT | WINE BAR | WEDDINGS | EVENTS |

Cosmopolitan Hotel This iconic historic hotel showcases the finest local and regional produce, wine and craft beer. Open fires. Enjoy the region’s best beer garden. Open lunch and dinner Wed - Sun. Corner High Street and Cosmo Road Trentham 03 5424 1516 | enquiries@thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au

Daylesford Cider Daylesford Cider’s award-winning range use English heritage cider apples grown organically on the farm.

Cellar-door open 7 days, Lunch Friday to Monday, functions, events, live music, landscaped gardens & lawn games.

155 Dairyflat Road Musk | 03 5348 2275 enquiries@daylesfordcider.com.au daylesfordcider.com.au

Daylesford Wine Tours Daylesford Wine Tours invites you on a boutique cellar door experience, boasting award winning vino, ciders, liquers and spirits. Tours 10am & 2pm daily. Fun and relaxed.

Pick up Daylesford/Hepburn Accommodation 03 5348 1823 | hello@daylesfordwinetours.com daylesfordwinetours.com

endota spa Daylesford endota spa Daylesford offers a range of treatments and products to support you on your journey to better wellness. We also offer a variety of group packages. Bookings are essential.

Cnr Vincent St and Central Springs Rd Daylesford 03 5348 1169 | daylesford@endotaspa.com.au endotaspa.com.au/daylesford

Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa Hepburn Springs’ only historic Bathhouse, has been providing traditional wellness bathing since 1895. Drawing mineral rich waters directly from the natural source for a pure mineral wellness experience.

Mineral Springs Reserve Road Hepburn Springs 03 5321 6000 | info@hepburnbathhouse.com hepburnbathhouse.com Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

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Daylesford • Hepburn Springs • Trentham • Glenlyon • Clunes • Kyneton

Stay With Us With over 150 unique holiday rentals region wide, we have something to suit every kind of getaway.

St Remy Daylesford

14 VINCENT STREET DAYLESFORD VIC  03 5348 4422  DAYGET.COM.AU

Sault Restaurant Sault restaurant is set amongst one of the most spectacular properties in Daylesford, with several acres of beautiful lavender fields and our very own lake.

Our seasonal menus are designed to incorporate the best quality produce from our local and regional farms with a strong focus on produce from the extensive Sault kitchen garden.

Sault caters for both restaurant dining and private functions and with the addition of our iconic chapel, ceremonies here are a magical experience.

With stunning views accompanied by great food and wine, Sault is the ideal restaurant for every occasion.

2349 Ballan-Daylesford Road Sailors Falls | 03 5348 6555 enquiries@sault.com.au | www.sault.com.au

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The Hepburn Pavilion Open daily for delicious morning and afternoon tea, the historic Hepburn Pavilion is the ideal setting to start exploring Hepburn and the historic mineral springs.

Mineral Springs Reserve Road Hepburn Springs 03 5321 6000 | info@hepburnbathhouse.com hepburnpavilion.com.au

Hepburn Spa Retreat Contemporary, elegant, and designed for complete indulgence and comfort. Hepburn Springs’ premier stay offers indulgent luxury accommodation with magnificent, serene views over native bushland.

20/22 Mineral Springs Crescent Hepburn Springs 03 5321 6000 | info@hepburnbathhouse.com hepburnbathhouse.com

Jubilee Lake Holiday Park & Café Family park with lots of space and wildlife. Open fires, pet friendly café & canoes, we have it all in one place.

Melbourne 1.5 hrs away & 40 minutes from Ballarat.

151 Lake Road Daylesford | 03 5348 2186 info@jubileelake.com.au | jubileelake.com.au

Lake House Cooking School Hands on classes, demonstrations or workshops with some of Australia’s best chefs, producers and winemakers in the Cooking School kitchen at Lake House. Full calendar and tickets online.

King Street Daylesford | 03 5348 3329 info@lakehouse.com.au | lakehouse.com.au

Lake House Restaurant Two Chefs Hats. Australia’s Best Food & Wine Experience.

Australian Wine List of the Year…. Iconic contemporary restaurant nestled on the shores of Lake Daylesford.

Private dining available. Reservations essential.

King Street Daylesford | 03 5348 3329 info@lakehouse.com.au | lakehouse.com.au

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The Mineral Spa A destination day spa in the heart of Victoria’s spa country – an idyllic restorative haven and renowned as one of the most acclaimed and awarded natural mineral spas in Australia.

124 Main Road Hepburn Springs | 03 5348 2100 treatments@mineralspa.com.au | mineralspa.com.au

Mount Olive “A little piece of heaven in Daylesford.” A luxurious hideaway, sleeping 4, set in peaceful surrounds with views that extend along Doctors Gully. Only 500m to the heart of Daylesford.

Daylesford | 03 5348 4422 dayget.com.au/mount-olive | mountolive.com.au

Passing Clouds Winery, Cellar Door and Dining Room. We offer a unique cellar door experience of award-winnning wines, la famiglia-style food and views of our estate vineyard.

30 Roddas Lane Musk | 03 5348 5550 office@passingclouds.com.au passingclouds.com.au

Radio Springs Hotel A comfortable, cosy, atmospheric boutique hotel, with a quaint bar offering regional wines and seven beers on tap.

Indoor and outdoor dining, accommodation, live music, films and rambling garden.

1 High Street Lyonville | 03 5348 5562 radiospringshotel@gmail.com radiospringshotel.com.au

RedBeard Historic Bakery RedBeard is famous for handmade, organic sourdough, baked in a huge, 19th century oven. Enjoy an indulgent breakfast, a lovely lunch, or scrumptious coffee and cake, in RedBeard’s licensed café.

38A High Street Trentham | 03 5424 1002 info@redbeardbakery.com.au redbeardbakery.com.au Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

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Sakana Restaurant Formerly known as Kazuki’s, its new sister restaurant Sakana offers casual dining with Pan Asian / modern Japanese cuisine and Asian inspired cocktails.

1 Camp Street Daylesford | 0433 569 303 sakanadaylesford@gmail.com sakanarestaurant.com.au

The Spa at Lake House Deep spa tubs with 100% pure mineral water sit amongst the willows in treehouses overlooking Lake Daylesford.

Performance facials and body treatments are signature.

King Street Daylesford | 03 5348 3329 spa@lakehouse.com.au | lakehouse.com.au

The Surly Goat Wine Bar & Restaurant Feast on delicious regional food, drink some of the best wine and relax awhile. Bookings essential. TuesdayThursday 5pm till late. Friday & Sat 12pm - late.

3 Tenth Street, Hepburn Springs | 03 5348 4628 eatanddrink@thesurlygoat.com.au thesurlygoat.com.au

Wildwood Instruments Electric Guitar Making Courses. Our two-day courses will immerse you in the art of guitar making. Be professionally guided through building your very own kit guitar.

11 Phillips Road Mount Franklin | 0416 188 950 nick@wildwoodinstruments.com.au wildwoodinstruments.com.au

Wombat Forest Vineyard and Winery Our family owned vineyard is nestled on the edge of the Wombat State Forest. We pride ourselves using environmentally friendly practices, producing premium cool climate wines.

189 Springhill Road, Denver | 0408 799 187 info@wombatforestwines.com wombaforestwines.com

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Hanging Rock Llama Walks

Kyneton to Tooborac and everything in between Tylden . Carlsruhe . Kyneton . Lauriston . Taradale . Cobaw Pipers Creek . Sidonia . Barfold . Glenhope . Baynton . Tooborac Whether history, shopping or eating thrills you, this part of the countryside offers all the fun stuff and more. In fact, we dare you to uncover even more surprises on the roads from Kyneton to Tooborac and beyond. Today, this area is an epicentre for foodies and shopaholics alike, all beating a path to Kyneton’s Piper Street.

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But it wasn’t always like this. Established in 1850 and named after the English village of Kineton in Warwickshire, Kyneton was once a major resting hub for those on their way to find gold in central Victoria. Incredibly, Kyneton Courthouse, famous for trying that Aussie bad boy Ned Kelly in 1870, continues to function as a Magistrates’ Court.

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Today, Kyneton is becoming renowned as a place for traditional makers and artisans, so it’s no wonder that this town is home to the hugely successful Lost Trades Fair. Held each year in March, the Lost Trades Fair celebrates the art of skilled manual work, ancient and traditional trades and crafts, and their special tools, traditions, languages and secrets. Plan a road trip to enjoy a ‘lost weekend’ at one of the most inspiring events you will ever experience.

Find your way to the small country town of Tooborac and you’ll be rewarded by the Tooborac Hotel, the oldest National Trust listed country pub in Victoria. Built in 1857 of bluestone, ironstone and granite its recent transformation to restaurant, brewery and arguably the last honest country pub attracts visitors from far and wide. If your taste is not hand-crafted beers, then this is the place to sample great local wines such as a Shiraz, Viognier or Verdelho.

Further travel around this area will bring you to wineries, farm gates, or the opportunity to appreciate the strong connection to the land of the original inhabitants, the Dja Dja Wurrung and the Taungurung people.

Find out more: visitmacedonranges.com

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Bryanna Sandercock Byranna Sandercock Piper St Food Co. is an inspiring, warm-hearted woman and co-owner of cooking school and foodie paradise, Piper St Food Co in Kyneton.

She’s played a fundamental role in promoting local producers. Here are her top picks on what to see and do around the district; For me, living in this region is all about the natural landscapes, the great produce grown and made here, and the inspirational people who make it.

We are fond of driving towards the Cobaw Ridge to marvel at the granite boulders and enjoy the view. We’d also take the opportunity to visit our friends, Andrea and Llew, at Granite Hills Winery. Take a long way home and call into the Toobarac Hotel and try a handcrafted beer. Then we’d go onto Barfold Olive Oil for the freshest oils and olives.

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We are a bike riding family, so we love exploring different tracks around the region. The current favourite ride is to Blackhill Reserve. We pack a picnic and eat high up on the rocks taking in the views and fresh air.

I love gardening, so I am always looking for interesting and beautiful plants.

We have unique nurseries including the Garden Tap, Mt William Advanced Trees and Dicksonia Rare Plants. I highly recommend the Campaspe River Walk where you can stop in the Botanic Gardens with the newspaper or a book under an ancient oak tree.

Our biggest dilemma in Kyneton is selecting where to go for dinner. We are spoilt for choice! Tansy’s, Colenso, Source Dining or Midnight Starling?

They are all run by good friends; passionate makers and all use the best local produce.

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Kim Selby Photography

Out & About Piper Street, Kyneton

Discover historic Kyneton

If shopping and eating’s your thing, look no further than the renowned Piper Street in Kyneton, one of the most vibrant streets in the region. Here you can browse original artworks from local artists, peruse gift shops or scour any number of antique shops for vintage finds from all over the world. See traditional chairmakers, stonemasons and milliners all hard at work on this enterprising street. When it’s time to refuel, Piper Street gives you every option. From fine dining and grand old pubs to inner city style cafés, you’ll be spoilt for choice. If being surrounded by so much delicious country cooking and produce inspires you, book into one of Piper Street Food Company’s classes and learn from legendary chef, Damian Sandercock.

If you have an interest in some of the finest historic buildings in regional Victoria, Kyneton is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. A walk around the town’s centre will take you past a number of 19th century civic buildings, churches, schools, commercial buildings and private homes, many dating back to the 1850s. Each of these buildings has their own fascinating stories about the people who lived and worked in them.

Kyneton’s oldest building, the singlestorey bluestone former Anglican rectory on the corner of Piper and Ebden streets, dates back to 1850. Today, this beautiful building set in ½ an acre of gardens has been lovingly restored and now offers luxurious accommodation for visitors to the area.

Piper Street, Kyneton

More information: Kyneton Visitor Information Centre

Black Hill Reserve With 260 acres of natural peace and serenity, Black Hill Reserve offers signed walking tracks, magnificent views, great rock formations, wild flowers, Australian wildlife, natural and revegetated bushland to rejuvenate the soul. Plenty of opportunities for walking, jogging, orienteering, rock climbing, picnicking, and all the fresh air you can handle!

Black Hill Reserve, Kyneton

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Campaspe River Walk Running alongside the Kyneton Botanical Gardens is the historic Campaspe River Walk which stretches from the Gardens to the bottom of Piper Street and beyond to the Racecourse. It provides a stimulating walk along the River and passes through the wonderful Sculpture Park near Quarry Reserve and features information on the river’s heritage.

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Big Bold Landscapes

Kyneton Racecourse

Relatively unexplored, mounds of enormous granite boulders lay scattered between the district of Kyneton, Pyalong, Baynton and Tooborac. Millions of years of erosion have left rock formations, ancient and worn with an appearance of giants’ marbles strewn across the landscape like an unwanted game. The area is extremely photogenic. Discover wildflowers, wildlife and structures like the Nulla Vale Balancing Stone and Tooborac Rock Monument. Find pastures dotted with sheep, cattle and contrasting monolithic natural sculptures. For those who enjoy a weekend drive, cruise across plains, undulating hills, windswept bushland and imagine a day when it was a favourite spot for men of ill-repute.

The Kyneton Racecourse is often referred to as the “prettiest” country racecourse in Victoria, due to its picturesque landscape and beautiful 100 year old Oak and Elm trees, which line the track. Enjoy getting up close to the horses and jockeys in the mounting yard, try your luck in the bookies ring, throw a rug on the Members Lawn or set yourself up by snaring an early seat in the Grandstand. The Marquee event each year is Kyneton Cup Day (held the day after Melbourne Cup) forming part of Victoria’s Spring Racing Carnival. This event day attracts people from all over Australia and other parts of the world, who now attend this day each year as part of their Melbourne Cup Week activities.

Region wide

Campaspe Place, Kyneton

Kyneton Museum

Tooborac Hotel and Brewery

This Museum’s collection reflects the life and times of Kyneton and wider district from around the 1850s to the 1930s and is housed in an authentic National Trust bluestone building that was the former Bank of New South Wales built in 1856.

There are changing exhibitions in the original banking chamber, and upstairs the bank manager’s residence is preserved in time. Outdoor exhibits include original bluestone stables, a servant’s kitchen and laundry. The Museum is also home to a wide variety of carriages and historical agricultural equipment so that you can expand your knowledge of Victorian farming history.

A heritage-listed Pub that is renowned for being family friendly with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Located just one hour from Melbourne along the Northern Highway you will find an onsite working brewery producing award winning tasty craft beer and a kitchen producing delicious and comforting country style pub meals.

5115 Northern Highway, Tooborac

67 Piper Street, Kyneton Fri-Sun 11am-4pm, entry fee applies

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Animus Distillery Animus Distillery produces award-winning Australian Gin, handcrafted in Piper St, Kyneton.

Visit our Cocktail Lounge & Bar. Now open Wednesday to Sunday.

1/89A Piper Street Kyneton | 03 5403 2431 contactus@animusdistillery.com | animusdistillery.com

Hardwicks of Kyneton Quality wholesale butcher, direct to the public located in the heart of Kyneton. Visit our state of the art butcher shop for quality lamb, beef, chicken and smallgoods as well as our range of local produce and condiments. Sign up for our weekly specials via our website.

180 Mollison Street Kyneton | 03 5422 3851 orders@hardwicksofkyneton.com.au | hardwicks.com.au

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Piper Street Food Co PICNICS ~ Visit our little shop and create your own picnics & suppers from our range of quality handmade pates & terrines, local cheeses and traditional English Pork Pies

COOKING SCHOOL ~ Learn some old school techniques and classic recipes in our cooking school Private Groups Welcome.

2-89A Piper Street Kyneton | 03 5422 3553 | info@piperstfoodco.com | piperstfoodco.com

Stockroom Kyneton

Stockroom is Macedon Ranges premier artists and makers space with a large retail area showcasing contemporary artists, makers and designers. There are 3 galleries within exhibiting the work of some of Australia’s most exciting and engaging contemporary artists with a monthly program of solo and curated exhibitions.

98 Piper Street Kyneton | 03 5422 3215 | info@stockroom.space | stockroomspace.com

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Dr Abalone Wine Bar Dr Abalone showcases wines and gin from the Macedon Ranges. Housed in a bluestone building, Dr Abalone offers European inspired dishes in a relaxed cocktail bar, restaurant and courtyard.

19 High Street Kyneton | 03 5422 7306 dr@drabalone.com.au | drabalone.com.au

Granite Hills Wines Granite Hills is a must visit if you are in the Macedon Ranges. Taste some of the most exciting wines in the region.

1481 Burke & Wills Track Baynton | 03 5423 7273 knights@granitehills.com.au granitehills.com.au

Isabella at Kyneton An 1890’s three-bedroom self-contained cottage with modern comforts, perfect for couples or older families.

This multi award winning property is perfect for a few nights or longer stays.

10 Bowen Street Kyneton 0413 536 303 info@isabellaatkyneton.com.au isabellaatkyneton.com.au

Kyneton Farmers’ Market Stalls bursting with tasty produce, you can count on freshness direct from the grower. Come join us for an enjoyable and productive morning. Every second Saturday of the month from 8am to 1pm.

35 Piper Street, Kyneton | 03 5422 1025 kynetonfarmersmarket@bigpond.com.au facebook.com/KynetonFarmersMarket

McIvor Estate Modelled on an Italian mixed farm, McIvor Estate produces premium award-winning wines and extra virgin olive oils.

Our cellar doors are thrown open on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays 10AM to 5PM. 80 Tooborac Baynton Road Tooborac | 03 5433 5266 info@mcivorestate.com.au | mcivorestate.com.au

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The Old Auction House Discover 100+ Australian makers and DIY craft supplies in our handmade market, explore two ever-changing galleries, and learn in our working artist studios, artist workshops and classes. Open 7 Days.

52-56 Mollison Street Kyneton | 03 5422 2047 admin@theoldauctionhouse.com.au theoldauctionhouse.com.au

Source Dining The source or origin is where it all begins. Our desire to be hospitable shapes our service philosophy – Awarded a Chef’s Hat in the National Good Food Guide.

72 Piper Street Kyneton 03 5422 2039 | info@sourcedining.com.au sourcedining.com.au

Brooklands Free Range Farms

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Castlemaine and surrounds Castlemaine . Malmsbury . Metcalfe . Newstead . Guildford Campbells Creek . Harcourt . Chewton . Vaughan . Fryerstown Yapeen . Yandoit . Franklinford . Green Gully . Strangways Elphinstone . Taradale Malmsbury – an old service centre for diggers travelling to Bendigo and Castlemaine - is worth a look. Not only is it home to Victoria’s oldest botanical gardens, it is also the place for a great coffee or a loaf of heavenly bread from the Malmsbury Bakery and the place to purchase unique local art.

Travel on through the stunning hills of Taradale to the bustling town of historic Castlemaine, renowned for its eclectic

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arts scene, rich gold rush history, and growing reputation as a fine food destination. For creative types, stop at a local artist’s studio to find sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, paintings and textiles, or spend the day viewing major Australian and international works at the Castlemaine Art Gallery and Historical Museum.

For more information: maldoncastlemaine.com.au

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Johnny Baker Intelligent, irreverent and a pastry guru; meet Johnny Baker. He owns the entirely delicious Johnny Baker- a drive through Pastries and Coffee shop in Castlemaine and has some hot tips on what to see and do in the area; Between late February to May, mushrooms pop up in the Oak Forest at Harcourt. Go for a forage, make sure you know which ones are edible or not.

Another ripper is the mountain bike track in Castlemaine known as the endless track.

Come up for the weekend and bring your bike. You can stay at Tread, at the base of Mount Alexander and there’s a café called Goldfield’s Track Café (situated on the Tread property), so you can grab a bite when you get hungry.

I have also found a great new bakery, Blumes Historic Bakery in Harcourt. They have set up shop in one of the town’s original bakeries, and they have even Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

managed to resurrect the old scotch oven.

Their sourdough is delicious.

If I had just 48 hours in the area, I would spend four hours just wandering The Mill in Castlemaine. There are so many treasures to uncover. Then I’d hop on the Victorian Goldfields Railway from Castlemaine out to Maldon. I’d pay the extra and ride with the driver. I have heard you can get your engineer’s licence as well and drive the train.

Then, I’d head out to Buda Historic Home and Garden and soak up the history from years gone by.

At night I’d see a live show at Theatre Royale and have some dinner at Bistro Lola. I’d stay at the NewNorthern Art Hotel (yes, they spell it this way), just above us.

This place is amazing. The next day I’d see the guys at the Castlemaine Rod Shop and spend the afternoon meandering through the beautiful Castlemaine Botanical Gardens.

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Old Castlemaine Gaol

Out & About The Mill, Castlemaine

Malmsbury Botanic Gardens

Starting as the Castlemaine Woollen Mill in 1875, and finishing as Victoria Carpets in 2013, The Mill is rapidly becoming a place for food and artisan manufacturing, and is a key a part of Castlemaine’s vibrancy. Here you’ll find an abundance of small businesses: café, coffee roastery, wine, ice-cream, bread, cakes, beer, and more to come.

Once you’ve collected local goods from the surrounding provedores, farm gates and wineries, head to the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens. Established in the 1850’s the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens one of Victoria’s earliest regional botanic gardens encompassing a wonderful collection of trees and shrubs along with a few surprises from its rich past. The central focal point of the Gardens is the Ornamental Lake with the formed island at its centre. The fountain was built in the 1930’s from bluestone salvaged from a nearby demolished mill. Both the fountain and the lake edges have been restored in recent years and the Dutch Elms planted at the front of the lake were planted as a memorial to soldiers of the First World War.

Walker Street, Castlemaine Buda Historic Home & Garden ‘Buda’ is an authentic house and garden, and a real survivor from the gold rush era.

Named after Budapest by its Hungarian owner, Ernest Leviny, it was home to the creative Leviny family for 118 years and houses their significant intact collection of furniture, art works and belongings and surrounded by an historic 1.2ha garden.

Ellesmere Place, Malmsbury

42 Hunter Street, Castlemaine Malmsbury Viaduct The Malmsbury Viaduct is a feat of incredible stone engineering, built in 1859 using thousands of labourers to carry the Bendigo railway line over the Coliban River. It is one of Victoria’s largest nineteenth century engineering structures, consisting of five-arched spans reaching 152 metres from end-toend. Best access point is found along the walking track from the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens.

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Castlemaine Artists’ Market The Castlemaine Artists’ Market is one of the finest art and craft markets in Central Victoria. Held on the first Sunday of each month (excluding January) 9am-2pm.

Western Reserve, Forest Street Castlemaine info@castlemaineartistsmarket.com.au castlemaineartistsmarket.com.au

Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation offers a fabulous range of accommodation. Choose from nine beautifully appointed properties, from a two bedroom, inner city pad to a large Victorian homestead/retreat.

94 Hargraves Street Castlemaine | 0427 721 196 donnavgreenway@gmail.com castlemaineaccom.com.au

Coffee Basics - Das Kaffeehaus Coffee roastery and Viennese Coffeehouse (The heart of Vienna in Central Victoria).

The Mill, 9 Walker Street Castlemaine 03 5470 6270 info@coffeebasics.com facebook.com/pg/coffeebasics

Cosy Tents A luxury campsite combining the essence of a hotel with the outdoors. Enjoy a relaxing retreat in your own fully furnished canvas bell tent and fall in love with the outdoors again!

6 Kanga Road Yandoit | 0411 322 937 enquiries@cosytents.com.au | cosytents.com.au

Johnny Baker Johnny Baker is set in an old drive through bottle shop where you can watch the team baking in the open kitchen.

Serving pasty delights and quality coffee. Open 7 days from 6.30am - 4 pm.

359 Barker Street Castlemaine | 03 5470 5695 info@johnnybaker.com.au | johnnybaker.com.au

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A creative hub for foodies, art admirers and seekers of the collectable and curious.

The Mill Castlemaine • 1—9 Walker Street • millcastlemaine.com.au • Opposite the Botanical Gardens.

das kaffeehaus t h e h e a r t o f v i e n n a

9 wa l k e r s t c a s t l e m a i n e @ t h e m i l l p h : 5 4 70 62 70 Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

A ginormous 1,800m2 of knick-knackery, bric-a-brac-ery, second hand curios, retro accoutrement and a soupçon of handmade finery. And stuff. Lozza, lozza stuff.

Seven days a week 10am—5pm At The Mill, 1-9 Walker St, Castlemaine T. 5470 6555 VISITOR GUIDE

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Creswick to Clunes and the area beyond Dean . Creswick . Rocklyn . Coghills Creek . Newlyn Allendale . Kingston . Blampied . Smeaton . Clunes Campbelltown . Glengower . Talbot Old meets new and heritage joins modern in this beautifully picturesque part of the region.

Travelling through exceptional landscapes, you’ll come to Creswick, a town built on the proceeds of rich gold deposits mined from the 1850s. Today this township displays fine examples of the grand architecture so reminiscent of a bygone era. Far from

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being ‘just’ a mining town, Creswick is the birthplace of reforestation and is the continuing home of the School of Forestry, which opened over 100 years ago and has evolved its focus from axes to ecology. It is also the birthplace of one of Australia’s most notable artistic families, the Lindsay Family, with artist Norman Lindsay perhaps the most famous of Creswick’s artistic sons.

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Eating, drinking and shopping are activities that Creswick does fabulously – sample an irresistible cake from French patisserie Le Péché Gourmand, or purchase the impeccable local produce from Creswick Country Fresh.

Clunes Booktown Festival is a must do, as Clunes is one of only 15 internationally recognised Booktowns, and the only one in the Southern Hemisphere. Get lost in an astonishing array of bookshops offering the whole gamut from collectables to bargains.

The Goldfields town of Clunes has claims to fame beyond being the place of Victoria’s first gold strike in 1851. It is one of the most intact 19th century towns in the Central Goldfields, boasting original shop fronts and buildings. Walk the streets of this wondrous historical town and transport yourself to yesteryear. The widely acclaimed annual

And before you leave this area, don’t miss the opportunity to drop into Blampied’s Swiss Mountain Hotel, Victoria’s oldest weatherboard hotel now lovingly restored, for a local craft beer or other refreshments.

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For more information: visithepburnshire.com.au

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Andrew Bell Andrew Bell is one of Australia’s leading creatives and a style icon worth following.

An award-winning graphic designer, advertising art director and interior designer, he owns internationally renowned Andrew Bell Interiors, Hong Kong. When he’s not working, he spends his time exploring picturesque Creswick.

Uncover more of Creswick’s old and new attractions. A full breakfast would start the day at either Country Fresh Café or Smokeytown Café. On the weekend, try to include lunch in Clunes, in the rear garden of Bread & Circus Provedore, followed by a stroll along the main street, exploring its bookshops and gift shops. Also, I love to browse Time Travellers antique shop’s quirky but sophisticated collection.

A visit to Creswick Cemetery, as with all country town cemeteries, can be a thoughtprovoking experience. I always show friends the reassembled grave containing an entire family of father, mother and infant child, whom all died within a year of each other Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

just before the First World War. I call it “the broken family in the broken grave”.

For dinner, I often like to head north to Clunes again to Quigley & Clarke.

Alternatively, you can head south to the terrace of Springs Bar & Terrace at the RACV Goldfields Resort. It’s a wonderful place to watch the kangaroos come out at dusk and begin grazing on the fairways.

One hundred years ago Park Lake was the place for local courtship and canoodling and was featured as such in Norman Lindsay’s novel Redheap. In fact, my grandparents used to court (and canoodle, I suppose) there. You can take a walk around the lake which features an unusual fountain and usually lots of wild ducks.

Lake Calembeen is Creswick’s old swimming hole and remains popular with the locals. Please take a look at the intimidating diving platform and try to imagine it when it still had its third tier. My bravest sister jumped from the bottom level when she was 10.

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Out & About

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Out & About Creswick of the Lindsays Arts Trail

Anderson’s Mill

The Lindsays, one of Australia’s best known artistic families, are synonymous with Creswick. The Creswick of the Lindsays Arts Trail comprises of 24 sites of importance to the family, and weaves through 7.6 kms of the town, including the Creswick cemetery where seven members of the family lie. The best place to start the Trail is at the Visitor Information Centre at the corner of Albert and Victoria Streets where you can collect a Trail guide.

Anderson’s Mill is an important part of Victoria’s Goldfield’s heritage. Located in a truly-postcard setting on the banks of Birch’s Creek at Smeaton, Anderson’s Mill stands as a reminder of an industry that flourished after the gold rush of the 1850s.

Standing much like it was over 100 years ago, the five-storey bluestone building and its magnificently-crafted iron water wheel are still in place.

Creswick

Smeaton For more information parks.vic.gov.au

Lambley Garden & Nursery

Hepburn Lagoon Rides

Set in and around a robust, old farmhouse in the hot dry wind-swept plains of the central Victorian Goldfields. Lambley’s complex of gardens are an inspiration to visitors from around the world and a must see for anyone planning a garden in the Australian climate.

Set amongst the rolling hills of the Mount Prospect district, you will delight in the fun country horse riding experience provided by the Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides, located 10 minutes from Creswick.

395 Lesters Road, Ascot

Creswick Golf The RACV Goldfields Resort Golf Course was designed by internationally-renowned golf course architect, Tony Cashmore. This legendary course designer’s magnificent vision resulted in a golf course of forest framed greens, fairways set in exclusive cathedral-like passages, sweeping slopes and cooling creek systems invoking a unique forest experience between Ballarat and Daylesford.

60 Telegraph Road, Newlyn North

Maze House Maze House is located on the Midland Highway ten minutes from Daylesford and ten minutes from Creswick, with an old hedge maze, country carnival games, food garden and café milk bar. The maze is set in a beautiful five acre garden featuring a creek, vegetable garden, orchard, cutting garden and native habitat.

3155 Midland Highway, Newlyn North

Midland Highway, Creswick

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Creswick Woollen Mills Visit the award-winning Creswick Woollen Mills, an Australian family business and the last coloured woollen spinning mill in Australia. Experience ‘A Very Fine Yarn’, the interactive exhibition that showcases the journey of natural fibres and the history of the Mill. Stop for lunch at the dynamic Mill café, where local produce is championed across its hearty menu. Meet Farmer Cameron, Creswick’s resident animal expert, who walks visitors through the new animal enclosure, allowing everyone to get up close and personal with Creswick’s gorgeous alpacas, sheep and goats – including feeding and patting them.

Railway Parade, Creswick | 03 5345 2202 info@creswickwool.com.au | creswickwool.com

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RACV Goldfields Resort RACV Goldfields Resort is located in the heart of the Goldfields Spa Country and is a short drive from Ballarat or Daylesford. Perfectly located, RACV Goldfields Resort allows you an opportunity to soak up the regions beauty, history arts and culture. The resort offers a full range of facilities including a restaurant, bar, day spa, outdoor playground, tennis courts, gymnasium, outdoor heated pool and spa, mountain bike trails, on-property secure bike storage and an 18-hole championship golf course. RACV Goldfields also offers a large range of meeting rooms catering for intimate groups, sophisticated functions for up to 400 dinner guests and weddings.

1500 Midland Hwy Creswick | 03 5345 9600 reservations_goldfields@racv.com.au | racv.com.au/goldfields

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Tuki From the pond to the pan or paddock to the plate, the Tuki restaurant offers a unique opportunity to catch your own lunch and enjoy the true meaning of fresh food.

You are guaranteed to catch a trout at Tuki because family fun is our specialty.

60 Stoney Rises Road Smeaton | 03 5345 6233 | info@tuki.com.au | tuki.com.au

Quigley Clarke Come and enjoy locally grown goodness in this established café/restaurant in the historic township of Clunes. Worthy of a Sunday Drive!

Closed Tuesday & Wednesday 52 Fraser Street, Clunes | 03 5345 393 shunter@closedloop.com.au | www.quigleyclarke.com

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FARMERS ARMS CRESWICK

BAR & DINING MENUS

INHOUSE BUTCHERY

Voted one of Victoria’s Best Pubs 31 ALBERT ST CRESWICK / 53452221 Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

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Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides We offer two-hour rides for experienced & novice riders on beautiful, healthy & happy horses, as well as pub and winery rides. Come and visit Quirindi stables soon!

60 Telegraph Road Newlyn North | 0408 059 125 kieran@hepburnlagoonrides.com.au hepburnlagoonrides.com.au

Maze House Old hedge maze set in a 5 acre garden with old time country carnival games, orchards, shady areas for relaxing and a milk bar café. Loads of outdoor fun!

3155 Midland Highway Newlyn North | 0437 842 018 info@mazehouse.com.au | mazehouse.com.au

Overwrought Sculpture Garden & Gallery Visit our Australian native landscaped garden and gallery featuring original locally produced garden art, paintings, jewellery, ceramics, woodwork and other artisan wares.

FREE ENTRY OPEN DAILY 10 AM TO 5 PM. 3409 Midland Highway Blampied 0403 675 170 | info@overwrought.com.au overwrought.com.au

Le Péché Gourmand Le Péché Gourmand is a traditional French boulangerie patisserie offering croissants, baguettes, eclairs, croque-monsieur. Hire our “Le petit péché” coffee van.

Tuesday to Saturday 7am – 4pm, Sunday 9am – 2pm.

69a Albert Street Creswick | 03 5345 2731 info@lepechegourmand.com.au lepechegourmand.com.au

Swiss Mountain Hotel The Swiss Mountain Hotel is one of Victoria’s oldest hotels.

Open 6 days serving local beer, wine, modern bistro food with the classics and an open fire & courtyard.

3454 Midland Hwy Blampied | 03 5345 7006 info@swissmountainhotel.com.au swissmountainhotel.com.au

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Captains Creek Organic Wines An inviting cellar door open on weekends, located 10 minutes from Daylesford, offering delicious lunches from organic farm produce, organic wine and cider tastings, regional beers and Goldfields Farmhouse Cheeses. Kangaroo Hills Road Blampied 03 5345 7408 | enquiries@captainscreek.com captainscreek.com

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Bacchus Marsh to Blackwood & surrounds Bullarook . Wallace . Bungaree . Dunstown . Millbrook . Gordon Ballan . Myrniong . Lerderderg . Greendale . Blackwood Korweinguboora . Bacchus Marsh Visitors are instinctively drawn to the scenic parks and cool, relatively undisturbed forests of this part of the region. The Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Park are some of the most ideal natural locations for spotting Australia’s much-loved furry creatures: fluffy-eared koalas, velvety kangaroos and chubby wombats.

Bacchus Marsh to Blackwood proudly owns a rich history worth exploring.

Originally inhabited by the Kutung, the Wathaurong, the Wurundjeri, the Jaara and the Ngurelban Indigenous tribes, this Tag us #daylesfordmacedonlife

connection can still be seen through place names such as Myrniong, which was named with the murrnong plant in mind, the Aboriginal word for ‘yam daisy’ – a popular food source.

Successive waves of farmers, goldminers and timber workers have all shaped the personality of this land with the legacy still on show in the small towns of Blackwood, Bacchus Marsh and beyond. One of Victoria’s famous bushrangers, Captain Moonlight, has even been tied to this area.

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Today you can go for a drive and uncover all the new features of this place, such as quaint roadside stalls selling seasonal local produce from berries in summer to potatoes in winter. Or you can eat your way around the newest cafés, restaurants and check out the provedores focussing on the rich pickings from local producers.

landscapes featuring in Paramount Pictures’ $100 million remake of the children’s 1952 classic tale, Charlotte’s Web.

Even Hollywood recognised the beauty of this part of the world, with Greendale’s scenic rolling hills and lush country

Find out more: visitmoorabool.com.au

As you enter Bacchus Marsh, it’s hard not to miss the famous Avenue of Honour, a truly grand road lined by hundreds of elms, oaks and plane trees, planted to honour those who served during World War One.

Julian Blackhirst If you have daydreamed about working and living in the garden all day, you’d be extremely envious of Julian Blackhirst, Garden of St Erth. Julian is an experienced market gardener and the head gardener at The Garden of St Erth. We had an opportunity to catch up and find out his local hot spots: For coffee and food, I very rarely go anywhere apart from our onsite café at St Erth – the best coffee in Blackwood and Annie Smithers is hands down my favourite local producer. At Du Fermier, you know you’re getting fresh local produce, and most of it’s from her farm or other local producers.

For the adventurous, there is a beautiful bushwalking track, the Whipstick Track,

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just off our carpark here at The Garden of St Erth. It follows the old water races from the gold rush days, and I’d have to say it’s my favourite.

For a relaxing afternoon, you could find me in the garden at the Radio Springs Hotel.

They call it the ‘Garden of Earthly Delights’.

You may also see me return at the end of the day for a local ale!

If you haven’t visited the Garden of St Erth, you’ll be thrilled to discover a wide variety of different plants and planting styles. The garden fork to kitchen fork aspect is a more well-known concept now. You can see the food in the garden and then find it on your plate in the café and then get advice from experts on how to grow it yourself at home.

It’s a full produce circle.

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124Fold, | V I SPipers I T O RCreek GUIDE Crofter

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Out & About Pick your own in Bacchus Marsh

The Blackwood Hotel

Recreational fruit picking, otherwise known as ‘pick your own’, is an extremely popular familyfriendly pastime in the Bacchus Marsh vicinity.

Was built in 1868, and is the oldest weatherboard pub with a continuous licence.

Worth a visit to soak up the atmosphere or choose a meal from the enticing menu sourced from local produce.

Naturipe 638 Bacchus Marsh Road (Avenue of Honour), Bacchus Marsh

Blackwood – historic goldmining village In 1855, the goldmining village of Blackwood had 13,000 prospectors on the hunt for instant wealth. Today, those golden days are gone but this historic village remains, situated amidst the tall timbers and lush greenery of the Wombat State Forest. Discover a whole new world of riches by paying this quaint town a visit.

The Garden of St Erth Is a must-stop destination for visitors to Blackwood. Enjoy its expansive gardens, historic sandstone homestead, abundant orchards, rare perennials, Diggers Garden Shop, nursery and café.

189 Simmons Reef Road, Blackwood

Allen’s Emporium Is Blackwood’s antique and bookshop set in a beautiful heritage garden. Its aim is to make bargain hunters happy and content, and quite smug about their treasures.

15 Martin Street, Blackwood

22 Martin St, Blackwood

Lerderderg River This river is known for the Lerderderg Gorge Picnic Ground, camping, bushwalking and fishing activities. In earlier days, gold was mined in the upper reaches, and some of the old mines (considered dangerous to enter) can be seen as you travel along the sluice on the east bank, which previously fed into those mines.

Lerderderg State Forest

Soda Mineral Water When gold was discovered in Blackwood, it was a dark, wet forest with rainfall exceeding one metre yearly. Chinese miners panning in the Lerderderg River found springs on either side; one is now known as Soda Spring. In 1887, a government analyst described the springs as an equal of Apollinaris, a German mineral water selling for two shillings and sixpence a bottle. Today you can sample and bottle the spring water for free - how awesome!

Huggett Lane, Blackwood

Kryal Castle Kryal Castle is a legendary land of adventure, with knights, dragons, wizards, kings, queens, princesses, fairies and so much more. An adventurous, fun-filled day within the sprawling village awaits.

121 Forbes Road Leigh Creek (Ballarat) 03 5334 8500 | admin@kryalcastle.com.au kryalcastle.com.au

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Visit THE GARDEN OF ST ERTH

ESCAPE to hidden gardens DINE on fresh organic produce UNCOVER garden treasures in the Diggers Garden Shop STAY in our luxury glamping facilities The magical Garden of St Erth is a stunning house and garden run by The Diggers Club and set amongst the pristine hills of Blackwood. The gardens feature an extraordinary range of trees, plants and flowers gathered from around the world, a feast of rare perennials, multi-hued blooms, trellised heirloom fruit trees and a food forest to service the in-house Fork to Fork café. Don’t miss the annual St Erth Festival and monthly ‘Learn with Diggers’ workshops for gardeners and garden lovers.

189 Simmons Reef Road, Blackwood, Victoria Garden & Diggers Garden Shop | Open 7 days, 9am–5pm | 03 5368 6514 Fork to Fork Café & Glamping | Open Thu–Mon from 10am | 03 5368 6520 126 | V I S I T O R G U I D E

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Blackwood Ridge | Kitchen | Nursery | Gardens Blackwood Ridge is a destination combining gardens, nursery, and restaurant set in the heart of the Wombat State Forest. A place where you can spend an hour or an afternoon, to relax, indulge and soak up the elements.

When you arrive at Blackwood Ridge, you will be instantly immersed in the natural beauty and an oasis of manicured gardens.

The neatly organised boutique nursery specialises in rare Japanese Maples, Rhododendrons and other collectable ornamental garden plants.

The restaurant serves fine food and the lunch menu is designed to share, especially with a glass or two of local wine or beer.

812 Greenhills Road Blackwood | 03 5368 6707 book@blackwoodridge.com.au | blackwoodridge.com.au

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This is the Victorian Visitor information symbol. You’ll find this yellow “i” on roads all over Victoria and it means you’re not far from one of our accredited Visitor Information Centres. They are your guarantee of up to date quality information and expert advice about every piece of Victoria and they are open from 9am – 5pm, seven days a week (except Christmas Day and Good Friday).

Bacchus Marsh Visitor Information Centre 215 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh | Tel 03 5367 7488 Castlemaine Visitor Information Centre 44 Mostyn St, Castlemaine | Tel 03 5471 1795 Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre 98 Vincent Street, Daylesford | Tel 03 5321 6123 or 1800 454891 Kyneton Visitor Information Centre High Street, Kyneton | Tel 03 5422 6110 or 1800 244 711 Woodend Visitor Information Centre High Street, Woodend | Tel 03 5427 2033 or 1800 244 711 Mobility Access - TrailRider The TrailRider is an all-terrain access wheelchair which allows community members and tourists with physical and mobility issues to explore the great outdoors and experience parks, reserves, tracks and trails. Available free from: Hepburn Shire, Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre. Bookings essential: phone 03 5348 6123 or email visitorinfo@hepburn.vic.gov.au.

Moorabool Shire, Lerderderg Library, 215 Main St, Bacchus Marsh. Bookings essential – phone 03 5366 7100 or email info@moorabool.vic.gov.au

Published in May 2019 by Daylesford Macedon Tourism Ltd, 120 Main Road, Hepburn Springs, 3461. DM Tourism is committed to improving the quality of service in tourism and enhancing the visitor experience. If you have any feedback or comments on this Guide, please contact us: info@dmrtourism.com.au or 03 5309 2770.

Information in this booklet was correct at time of printing and is provided in good faith, however no responsibility will be taken for any inaccuracies, changes, errors or misconceptions of any kind.

Created by designscope.com.au Photography: Marine Hawson, Kate Berry, Miles Bennett, David Kirkland, Kim Selby, Ben Gardiner and Chloe Smith Photography.

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