Nestled in the heart of regional Victoria lies the popular tourist town of Daylesford. The lush landscape and mild climate makes it an attractive escape from the summer heat and a cosy winter destination for relaxing by the fireside. The traditional owners of the land are known as the Dja Dja Wurrung people. In 1851, gold was found and the area boomed as thousands descended on the region with a dream to make it rich on the gold fields. Pastoralists moved in and mineral springs were discovered. As the gold production waned so did the population but the farmers remained, and established a small, thriving community.
Today, Daylesford is a mecca for day trippers from Melbourne and surrounds. It is known as a destination offering quality foodie finds, boutique shopping and wellness experiences. There are so many options to fill your time during a visit to Daylesford so here are some highlights to help plan a rewarding stay.
Things to see and do in Daylesford
Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa
Just a short drive from Daylesford in the little village of Hepburn Springs is the award winning Bathhouse. Here you can immerse yourself in the waters sourced from the underground springs. Book yourself a Sanctuary Pass, this gives you access to all 6 pools and the steam rooms, it is a little excluded from the public pools and also not as busy. There are also a range of spa treatments offered and a bustling cafe for refreshments.
Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs
Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
A visit the Lavandula Farm is great value and provides a relaxing wander through the purple haze of the lavender rows. The lavender plants flower in the Australian summer and are at their best from January – March. Entry allows you to explore the entire farm, there is a beautiful café and bar with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a little gift shop selling lavender based products. There are historic gardens and buildings to explore, animals to meet and of course the beautiful lavender to enjoy.
Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, 350 Hepburn – Newstead Road, Shepherds Flat (short drive from Daylesford)
The Amazing Mill Markets Daylesford
Calling all shopaholics – you will find everything and anything at this indoor market under one massive roof! New and used items are for sale with each seller setting up their own permanent space and selling on consignment through one central point of sale. There is a well-stocked café onsite serving up homemade classics such as scones with jam and cream, that will keep your sustenance up while you shop.
The Amazing Mill Market, 105 Central Springs Road, Daylesford
Sailors Falls (Hepburn Regional Park)
Walk to the lookout points and take in the spectacular Sailors Falls. Start at the Sailors Falls Picnic Area and walk down the staircase to view the twin falls from the various lookout points. It is believed that the falls are named this way after all the sailors that jumped ship during the Victorian gold rush era. There is also a mineral water pump in the picnic area where you can fill your drink bottle with mineral rich water.
Sailors Falls, Ballan-Daylesford Road, Sailors Falls
Hepburn Distillery
The Hepburn Distillery is discreetly located in a warehouse at the back of the main shopping street in the centre of town. The family-run distillery makes vodka and gin from local ingredients and distils the spirits on site in the shiny copper still. The bar is inviting and has a slight prohibition feel and a great soundtrack playing as you sip on your drink of choice. Choose from a flight of the local creations or a simple cocktail with a hero spirit made on the premises. Picnic boxes are available for grazing whilst you enjoy a tipple or two.
Hepburn Distillery, access off Central Springs Road behind 79 Vincent Street, Daylesford
Places to eat in Daylesford
Bistro Terroir
A truly French dining experience awaits you at the inconspicuous heritage shopfront on Howe Street. Service begins upon booking with friendly reminders that your rendezvous is coming up. On arrival welcoming staff show you to your table and share on point drink suggestions to start your evening. A set menu greets diners to choose one course from each sitting. Everything is timed to perfection from the bread delivery to the cutlery changes and each course is as superbly delicious as the next. Enjoy a drink at the outdoor tables on a balmy night under the verandah dripping with grape vines as the sun goes down – the light is perfect.
Bistro Terroir, 6-8 Howe Street, Daylesford
Farmers Arms
Enter a stylish gastro-pub that wouldn’t be out of place in any major city. Here diners are treated to sensational food and a well-curated local drinks list. Atmosphere is friendly and locals mix with visitors in the art deco dining room. The menu is deliciously seasonal, hearty and the serves are generous. The attentive staff will ensure you are fed to ample sufficiency and that your glass is always full.
Farmers Arms, 1 East Street, Daylesford
Wombat Hill House
Situated in the middle of the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, this gorgeous café is set in a cottage with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu is simple and tasty and there are a wide selection of baked goods from local Dairy Flat Farm that change regularly – the display is mouthwatering! Get here early to claim a table and absorb the country charm of this hidden gem.
Wombat Hill House, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, entry off Central Springs Road, Daylesford
Cliffy’s Emporium
A Daylesford institution ‘Cliffy’s’ as it is affectionately known is busy all day long. Food is fresh, hearty and flavoursome and the service is quality. The store has lots of foodie finds inside and takes you back in time to the general store of old with high shelves, jars full of treats and baskets brimming with colourful goodie boxes. It’s a must-visit when in Daylesford!
Cliffy’s Emporium, 30 Raglan Street, Daylesford
Places to stay in Daylesford
There are many places to choose from in Daylesford from hotel rooms and holiday houses to self contained cottages and units. East Street, is the home to 4 individual boutique accomodation suites. The Secret Garden (number 3) is suitable for a couple and has a luxurious ensuite, tea and coffee facilities, bar fridge and all the extras you need on a mini break. Located just a few minutes drive from the centre of town and not far from many key attractions – the stylish space is the perfect relaxing escape!
East Street, 86 East Street, Daylesford
Have you visited Daylesford? We would love to hear you feedback and comments please leave them below or on our social channels @possandruby
1 comment
I remember Daylesford is a lovely place to visit, I was last there for a yoga retreat, so we didn’t get out much! I need to get back and enjoy some of these places you have mentioned..