The Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region is home to some truly spectacular waterfalls and reservoirs. The best time to visit these falls is during winter and spring, or after heavy rainfall. These waterfalls, often nestled in lush forests and accessible via scenic hiking trails, offer a tranquil and refreshing experience. And the best bit, they are all located only an hour or so from Melbourne.

Trentham Falls

Trentham Falls

Trentham Falls is one of the longest single drop waterfalls in Victoria, plunging some 32 metres over basalt columns. There is no access to the top or base of the falls due to unstable cliffs, however visitors can still enjoy amazing views of the waterfall from the viewing platforms (located a short walk from the car park). The reserve protects one of the best remnants of vegetation in the area, stands of large manna gum, stringy bark, messmate, narrow-leaved peppermint as well as seasonal wildflowers.

Sailors Falls uai

Sailors Falls

Sailors Falls, just south of Daylesford, is thought to be named after the sailors who jumped ship to seek gold in the area during the 1850s gold rush. You can view the spectacular drop of the twin falls from the picnic area. Make sure you take some time to read the interpretive signage detailing the history and fascinating geology of the area. You can also taste some of the fresh mineral water the Daylesford region is famous for by pumping mineral water directly from the source at the pump located beside the picnic area.

Turpins Falls uai

Turpins Falls

Turpins Falls is a beautiful natural water hole at the base of a waterfall tumbling 18 metres over impressive basalt cliffs formed by an ancient lava flow. Located 15 minutes north of Kyneton, it is a popular spot for locals to cool off in the Campaspe River on a warm day. It is accessed via a short but steep track from the carpark above the falls, with excellent views from the top and the lookout halfway down. The falls flow year-round but are at their most impressive after winter and spring rains. Note: access to the waterhole is subject to seasonal track closures. Be sure to check current condition on the Parks Victoria website before visiting. Photo Credit: Larkz Visuals

Metcalfe Cascades uai

The Cascades

The Cascades is a hidden gem nestled away just north of Metcalfe (approx. 20-minutes north of Kyneton). Here, water from the Coliban River tumbles over layers of bedrock through rock pools, through crevices and funnels into little caverns. Relax in the rock pools or take a swim in one of the bigger swimming holes. It is best to visit after some rain. Take your picnic basket, there are several tables near the parking area. Photo Credit: Debbie Karwata

Stanley Park Falls uai

Stanley Park Falls

Stanley Falls is a hidden waterfall, which runs through Stanley Park in Mount Macedon, cascading down a rocky ledge into a dense bush gully.  A wooden viewing platform overlooks the top of the falls and there is a stone path that leads to some stairs down to the fern gully – for those seeking a better view. The area is thought to have formed from silica-rich lave, which probably originated from the nearby ‘Camels Hump’ and flowed down the flank of Mount Macedon. Nowadays, it is a lovely waterfall and a lush refuge in summer with playgrounds, BBQ’s and picnic benches. Photo Credit: Macedon Ranges Mumma

Loddon Falls uai

Loddon Falls

Loddon Falls is found a short 5-minute drive north of Glenlyon, along the Loddon River. This is an undeveloped spot with a steep incline and dirt tracks that can get muddy in the wetter months. It has restricted access when there has been significant rainfall. If you are keen to forge on, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the waterfall and surrounds. Photo Credit: Ben Gardiner Photography

Blowhole uai

The Blowhole

This artificial diversion tunnel on Sailors Creek in Hepburn Springs was built by gold miners around the early 1870s. When Sailors Creek is full, The Blowhole is an impressive sight, spurting water out over a rock face to the pool below. You can view The Blowhole from above at the cliffs top, by following the walkway, or from across the river, standing opposite the tunnel. The Blowhole is one of many places to stop along the 160km Goldfields Track connecting Bendigo and Ballarat. Photo Credit: Vicki Maree Photography

Upper Coliban Spillway uai

Upper Coliban Reservoir Spillway

The Upper Coliban Reservoir spillway is the only siphonic spillway of its kind in Victoria. It’s an impressive structure and looks incredible after heavy rain, with water gushing over the dam. You can see the spillway clearly from the road beneath, or you can stop at the picnic ground with BBQ facilities and toilets. It is a popular spot for fishing, with the reservoir regularly stocked with brown trout, Murray cod and golden perch yearlings. Photo Credit: @Scriv243

Lauriston Reservoir uai

Lauriston Reservoir Spillway

The Upper Coliban Reservoir feeds into the connecting Lauriston Reservoir found between Kyneton and Glenlyon. The Lauriston Reservoir dam was constructed between 1938 and 1941 and has a spillway that measures 77 metres. It’s a well maintained reserve with walking trails, BBQ’s, picnic tables, playground and toilets. In 2019 the reservoir welcomed kayaks and non-powered boats to enable fishing of the abundant native fish.

Daylesford Glenlyon Hepburn Hepburn Springs Lauriston Macedon Ranges Metcalfe Trentham water waterfalls