Daylesford is a much-loved destination in central Victoria known for its restorative mineral waters and high-quality food and drink plus stunning seasonal scenery. Daylesford (and its beautiful surrounds) provides an idyllic setting to relax and recharge. Beyond its spa and wellness experiences, the town is home to art galleries antique and vintage stores and cosy cafes. These are complemented by the stunning nature-based attractions including Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and Hepburn Regional Park.
A central location puts Daylesford on the list of easy weekend getaways in Victoria, located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, 40 minutes from Ballarat and one hour from Bendigo. It is also easy to get to the region from Melbourne International Airport just hire a car and off you go.
In this article we have provided a sample itinerary for a weekend in the region that could be adapted and planned to suit your tastes. There is so much to see and do in the region from foodie finds to exploring history and nature and of course the spa experiences you won’t have any trouble filling a weekend…or two!
FRIDAY NIGHT
Check in at your accommodation, there are many options to choose from in the town and in the surrounding villages. Little Hampton Farm is a boutique farm stay 20 minutes east of the Daylesford CBD and offers a true country escape with all the modern luxuries. Take some supplies and create a grazing platter and enjoy a local bottle of wine in the luxuriously cosy space. Maybe enjoy a soak in the spectacular freestanding tub with views of the native bushland.
SATURDAY
Wake to the sunrise peeking in the conservatory and enjoy a warming cuppa and watch the kangaroos graze on the grass. Check the what’s on calendar for any markets or community activities. Our find was Glenlyon Village Market, which is a monthly occurrence and showcases local talent and fabulous food and produce. Once you have stocked up on local treats take yourself off to The Mineral Spa in Hepburn Springs for a relaxing spa experience, be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
After a relaxing morning refuel at Cliffy’s Emporium this popular café has an awesome menu for dining in and the coffee machine hums all day long churning out hot drinks for the masses. The cake offering here is amazing so don’t be shy to give it a try you have earned it!
The Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens are the perfect place to enjoy some quiet moments in the shade of some of the towering trees maybe with a picnic or treat from the onsite café. Having a botanic gardens in the 1850’s was seen as a symbol of civilisation and sophistication so the community spoke and due to demand by 1860 the land on top of the hill was cleared and trees were planted including oaks, ash, elm, poplars, cypresses and native blue gums.
A meal at the Farmers Arms Hotel is a must when in Daylesford, hearty yet contemporary pub fare accompanied by an outstanding wine list. Service is quick and attentive and any questions are readily answered to get you just the right dish and beverage combination.
SUNDAY
Enjoy a lazy breakfast and the stunning view before checking out and heading down the road to the Little Hampton Farmgate. Here you will be able to stock up on produce from the farm and surrounding properties. There are even some jams and chutneys available made with local ingredients and classic recipes.
Head east and you will come across Trentham Falls just a few minutes off the main road you will reach the car park and the walking trail to the falls lookout. The falls drops 32m into a rocky ravine and is best viewed in winter and spring when rainfall is plentiful.
It’s now lunch time and what better place to stop than in Woodend at Holgates Brewhouse. Try traditional pub classics alongside locally brewed craft beer. The tasting room is just next door and enables you to try from the wide range of beers on offer and take a few home with you. The sweet tooth is catered for too with Woodend Ice Cream Co just down the road. Enjoy your ice cream as you wander along the main street and admire the boutiques and cafes.
At this point you can easily jump back on the freeway and return Melbourne in less than an hour or you can continue your adventure with a visit the Macedon Ranges Regional Park for walks and some time in nature.
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Read more about road trips to Daylesford here
Disclaimer: Poss and Ruby were guests of Little Hampton Farm all opinions are our own.
