Charming, quaint and idyllic best sums up the Victorian country town of Daylesford at the foothills of the Great Dividing Range. Hailed as Victoria’s Spa Country, Daylesford and nearby Hepburn Springs is home to the best mineral springs in Australia. Health-conscious, wellness types mingle with girl’s groups and loved up couples, all wanting to soak up the relaxed, nurturing vibe the locals passionately protect. You’ll find loads of country charm historic architecture and picturesque landscapes in this country retreat just an hour and a half from Melbourne.
Image: VisitHepburnShire.com.au
BEST TIME TO GO TO DAYLESFORD
Daylesford’s healing qualities defy the seasons. Any time of year is a good time to visit and many a visitor return time and time again. Winter is cold and chilly but this weekend sanctuary beckons during the cold months with open fires, tasty local red wines and warming mineral spas. Autumn is pretty as a postcard. Brilliant shades of red and gold abound. The cooler days are perfect for exploring the natural attractions. Spring and summer are when the landscape comes to life. Perfect for some regeneration of your own.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DAYLESFORD
Quality holiday homes to indulge the senses and set you on the path to relaxation are what Daylesford is all about. Choose from in town close to conveniences or if you really want to unwind try a beautiful countryside cottage.
THINGS TO DO IN DAYLESFORD
Mineral Spas
If you are long overdue for some me-time, make a bee-line for the natural healing springs and day spas. From traditional communal bathing and steam rooms to relaxations pools, spas and therapy pools. You haven’t done Daylesford till you have lost all track of time in a mineral spa.
Image: VisitHepburnShire.com.au
Great Outdoors
Walking tracks heading in every direction are some of the most scenic trails you’ll find. Sections of the Gold Fields Track is a great start. Nature lovers should seek out Sailors Falls, Central Springs Reserve and Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve.
Step back in time
The local Dja Dja Wurrung people have long recognized the area for its healing waters. But it was gold that brought Europeans to the area. Beautiful historic buildings from the 1800s still stand today. Walk the streets and admire the well-preserved Swiss-Italian architecture.
Visit Hepburn Shire will give you more tips and ideas for things to see and do.
BEST FOOD AND DRINK IN DAYLESFORD
Best food in Daylesford
The food in Daylesford is just as notorious as the spas. Award-winning restaurants, scrumptious bakeries and trendy cafes. The go to places, serve up local produce with innovative flare.
Sault Restaurant is one of the best. And The Lake House reputation lives on with good reason. Try The Convent Gallery. It’s an art gallery and scrumptious café all in one.
Best coffee in Daylesford
You can’t truly relax until you’ve found your local coffee hang. One of the biggest challenges you’ll face in Daylesford is deciding where your loyalties lie.
Some tips for first-timers are Panchos where you’ll get your coffee buzz humming. Or Cliffy’s Emporium, in an old general store. It’s a local go-to for great coffee and an inventive menu.
Good luck finding your favourite.
BEST SHOPPING IN DAYLESFORD
Hit the main street in Daylesford for boutiques, independent stores and antique shops. Rummage through the antique bazaar and lose yourself in the eclectic store Manteau Noir.
Check out the art galleries featuring local painters, sculptors and jewelry makers. Or treat yourself to stylish homewares, collectable art and inspiring gifts. Take your time, this is shopping that will inspire. The Daylesford Sunday Market operates every Sunday from 8.00 am at Daylesford Station.
On Search and Stay you'll find the region’s premier holiday accommodation offering beautiful holiday homes and boutique accommodation in Daylesford and the surrounding villages of Hepburn Springs, Trentham, Clunes and Kyneton. Choose from properties ranging from affordable cabins, to high-end country luxury, modern chic accommodation to French provincial homes.
For more information, VisitHepburnShire.com.au