Follow the Murmuring Walk at Sanatorium Lake

Nestled atop Mount Macedon is the picture-perfect Sanatorium Lake. Quieten your mind by following the Murmuring Walk. This free audio guided walk reflects captures the environment, birdlife and natural rhythms of the lake. Download the audio guide here, then enter a contemplative space with a sublime multi-layered vocal and poetic soundtrack. This self-paced walk is entirely free and available to enjoy at any time.

Find your inner peace at Samadhi Retreat

The luxurious Samadhi Retreat in Glenlyon is specifically designed for those wanting to unwind and reconnect with themselves in a serene environment. Offering personalised wellness programs, spa treatments, and meditation sessions, this tranquil and welcoming retreat is a sanctuary for the mind, body, and spirit. One of Samadhi’s newest offerings is an ‘Inner Peace Retreat’, which includes gentle practices to help calm the mind, still emotions and provide clarity and insight – the pathways to becoming more at peace with yourself. Guests can choose two to five-day options, staying onsite in one of their gorgeous suites.

Experience equine therapy at Heart of the Horse

Heart of the Horse, near Malmsbury, offers equine therapy experiences ranging from a one-day retreat to multi-day experiences. Here, owner Rachael tailors each experience, and the offering is unique in Australia. The nature and temperament of the horses bestows on visitors a deep sense of calm. It sounds unusual…but it is proven to be highly therapeutic and deeply beneficial. Bookings are essential.

Discover the La Gerche Forest Walk

The towering, century old trees found on the La Gerche Forest Walk instill a deep sense of quiet and reflection. This serene, 2.2km self-guided loop winds through the historic nursery plantations found around Creswick. The walk honours John La Gerche, Creswick’s pioneering forest bailiff, whose dedication to forestry shaped the landscape you see today.

Explore an art gallery or artist studio

Our region is home to a seemingly endless collection of galleries and artists’ studios. Take a moment to explore these creative spaces, chatting to local artists and being inspired by their creative genius along the way. Top options include The Convent Daylesford, Radius Art, Cascade Art Gallery, Little Gallery, Bullarto Gallery, The Old Auction House and Stockroom Kyneton. For further inspiration, check out our 2-day art itinerary here.

Hike the summit at Hanging Rock Reserve

Visit Hanging Rock mid-week and you could find you have the summit walk to yourself. It’s hard not to feel the magic of this incredible site, which has been a place of great significance to Indigenous groups for millennia, located near the traditional boundary between three Aboriginal tribal groups – the Woi Wurrung (Wurundjeri), the Dja Dja Wurrung and the Taungurung. As you reach the summit, take some time (and care) exploring the rocky outcrops and admire the stunning 360° views.

Join a meditation session at Daylesford Healing Massage

Quieten your mind and direct your awareness within, with a meditation session at Daylesford Healing Massage, where the focus of each session is on relaxation and mindfulness. These sessions take place weekly on Thursday at 10am and attendance is by donation. Afterwards, further nourish the soul with an Aromatherapy Healing Massage.

Walk, swim or paddle at Jubilee Lake

Many people don’t realise Daylesford is home to a second lake. Somewhat hidden off the regular tourist trail, Jubilee Lake is a beautiful location, surrounded by trees, which are especially stunning in autumn. Start by following the easy circuit track, which navigates 1.6km around the lake. Then (weather permitting) relax by the beach area where you will be joined by the resident peacocks. Then take a dip or enjoy a spot of kayaking or paddleboarding – bring your own or hire a paddle boat from the kiosk.

Slow down in Malmsbury

The village of Malmsbury is a peaceful little town, where it feels like time has stood still. Start with a stroll through the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens, the oldest botanical gardens in Victoria, then gaze in wonder at the heritage-listed Malmsbury Viaduct. Built between 1858 and 1861 and still in operation today, this bluestone bridge was one of the longest stone bridges in the country when it was completed. Grab some lunch at the Malmsbury Bakery before checking out the towns thriving vintage and collectibles scene, making sure you pop into Madam Vintage and Rathdowne Antiques.

Leave the kids behind and stay at The Dudley Hotel

For those looking for a well-deserved, kid-free night away, The Dudley Boutique Hotel in Hepburn Springs is the ultimate choice. This luxurious, adults-only retreat offers a meticulously curated and peaceful guest experience, with nature at your doorstep.

Book yourself a secluded cabin retreat

When it comes to secluded accommodation, there are some amazing options in our region. Honey Hill in Glenlyon is an amazing off-grid option, surrounded by nature, while Bainbridge House is a gorgeous property, meticulously fitted out and designed by a family of furniture makers within an Australian bush setting (both are managed by Daylesford Country Retreats). Little Hampton Farm is another idyllic escape, nestled within Wombat State Forest. On the Macedon Ranges side, Fellcroft Farmstay offers two luxurious cottages within a working farm.

We’ve pulled together a curated list of local goodies – allowing you to purchase a beautiful gift from our region, from the comfort of your home.

Give the gift of creativity

Looking for a unique and thoughtful gift idea? The Old Auction House in Kyneton offers a variety of creative workshops, perfect for couples, friends, or families.
From kokedama and leadlight to printmaking, jewellery making, mosaics, and more, there’s something for everyone. Held on weekends, these workshops are a fantastic way to connect and create lasting memories. Explore the full range of workshops here.

Surprise them with wine

It’s no secret that our region is home to some of the finest cool-climate wine in the country. Jump online and purchase a bottle, wine pack or gift voucher from wineries such as Hanging Rock Winery, Mount Towrong Vineyard, Wombat Forest Vineyard & Winery and Cleveland Estate, the latter of which also has a range of accommodation gift vouchers available.

Gift a weekend away in Trentham

Hotel Trentham is a classic country pub in the heart of charming Trentham, the ideal stop for an affordable, yet memorable weekend away. Gift cards are available in your chosen value and can be used for accommodation, dining, or drinks at this warm and welcoming establishment. It’s the perfect way to treat someone special to a delightful country escape.

A relaxing reward for that special someone

Looking for the perfect way to pamper a loved one? Our region is renowned for its natural mineral water, and The Mineral Spa offers the ultimate relaxation experience.
Treat them to a Retreat Bathing Pass or a Gift Voucher (choose the amount) and let them select from a wide range of rejuvenating treatments. It’s the perfect way to indulge and unwind. Give the gift of relaxation today.

One for the golf enthusiasts

One for the dads, the mums, the grandparents, the special someone’s, even the kids! Grab a voucher from Hepburn Golf and give the gift of a round of golf on this beautiful course which is teeming with local wildlife. Golf vouchers are redeemable for everything from green fees and carts to equipment, lessons and food & beverage.

Craft beer for Christmas

We sure do love our craft beer in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, and we know your loved ones will too. Many of our top brewers have online shops where you can have the creations sent directly to you. Choose from beer, mixed packs and merch at Holgate Brewhouse. You can also order craft brews at both Daylesford Brewing Co., and Shedshaker Brewing. Shedshaker also gives you the option of buying a gift voucher to use in their impressive new Taproom within The Mill Castlemaine.

Get into the Christmas spirit

Hepburn Springs Brewing Co. has introduced a range of gins and flavoured vodkas to their range, all of which can be purchased online. Made on site at their Hepburn Springs based brewery and taproom, the new range has a focus on unique and unusual flavours, choose from fun flavours such as feijoa gin and mandarin vodka.

Add some French fare to your stocking

For an unforgettable date night, look no further than Bistro Terroir. Here the menu changes with the seasons and showcases local producers. It’s the perfect setting for a memorable evening. Gift vouchers are available online.

Luxe gifts from Lake House & Dairy Flat Farm

Lake House and Dairy Flat Farm have a tantalising selection of Christmas gifts to choose from including their famous, hand-crafted Christmas Puddings and a variety of Hampers including a Summer Entertaining Hamper, Botanical Hamper and Daylesford at Home Luxury Box.

A luxurious night away from the kids

For those looking for a well-deserved night away from the kids, The Dudley Boutique Hotel in Hepburn Springs is the ultimate choice. This luxurious retreat offers a meticulously curated guest experience, featuring bespoke furnishings, gourmet seasonal breakfasts, and exceptional service. Treat your loved one to an unforgettable stay with a gift voucher from The Dudley Boutique Hotel. Trust us – they’ll thank you for it.

Let them choose their own accommodation adventure

With over 150 luxury homes, villas and cottages to choose from, Daylesford Getaways make an ideal gift choice for someone looking to book a boutique stay in Daylesford & surrounds. Simply choose the amount you want to gift, and you’ll have a gift card sent directly to you (or have it sent directly to the recipient).

Whether you prefer lake, vineyard, or mountain views, or simply want to watch the passing parade, we have something to suit you.

CLIFFY’S EMPORIUM
A Daylesford icon and a must visit when you’re in town. The inside is full of romantic nooks and crannies, whilst the outside has all the feelings of a small Italian hamlet. Music is piped through to the outdoor areas and service is always friendly and relaxed.

BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT
Take a seat on the deck and watch the world go by. Perched above Lake Daylesford, you are given a sense of being right on the water. Watch swimmers take a daily dip, paddle boarders float across the lake and anglers haul in trout and redfin from the bank. There are two- or three-course offerings, the food is refined and influenced by classic French cookery.

HOLGATE BREWHOUSE
Summer days call for cold beers and delicious food in one of Holgate Brewhouse’s spacious outdoor dining areas in Woodend. Their modern Taproom features 16 taps of limited beers, along with a shaded courtyard. Meanwhile, their Historic Hotel has a beer garden and ample outdoor seating with plenty of shade, where you can tuck into gourmet mains, pub classics and share plates.

TUKI
If you feel like quality food, in a truly rural setting, with sublime views, you can’t go past Tuki. Located on the ‘Stoney Rises’, outside Daylesford, the panoramic views are the about the only thing that might distract you from the excellent food. Tuki is a true paddock to plate experience. From the pond to the pan and from the paddock to the plate, the menu draws upon produce grown and harvested onsite.

HOTEL TRENTHAM
With the motto “There Are No Strangers Here – Just Friends You Haven’t Met Yet,” Hotel Trentham embodies the welcoming spirit of a classic country pub. Seating up to 200 people, their beer garden boasts plenty of shaded areas and overlooks Trentham Town Square. With a menu featuring pub classics, live music every Sunday and games for the kids, it is a fantastic family option. Dogs are welcome too.

THE PIG AND WHISTLE HOTEL
The Pig & Whistle Hotel in Trentham East is the quintessential country pub, full of all of your favourite elements. Live music, a classic parma, eight beers on tap and a beer garden made for a party. The perfect location for a long lunch or dinner under the stars.

DAYLESFORD CIDER
Daylesford Cider is an ideal location for an afternoon session. Grab a paddle of their award-winning ciders, order a wood-fired pizza and listen to live music on weekends. Enjoy a picnic on the grass, have a game of bocce, and, if you’re partial to a bubbly drink, try the Watermelon Fizz. It’s as fun as it sounds.

DAYLESFORD HOTEL
The historic Daylesford Hotel has embarked on a new chapter, with the renowned team behind Daylesford’s Cliffy’s Emporium and Beppe restaurant having recently taking over the reins. Feast on delicious fare (by accomplished chef Rob Kabboord) in the leafy beer garden, or opt for the generous upstairs veranda, which gives you an eagle eye view over Daylesford and is a top spot for stunning sunset views.

MT TOWRONG VINEYARD
Winery dogs are one of the best reasons to visit a vineyard, and best boy Banjo is at the ready for pats. Come for Banjo and stay for the beautiful food and stunning surrounds. The industrial balcony provides a contemporary space to enjoy Mt Towrong’s rustic Italian fare.

THE COSMOPOLITAN HOTEL
The beer garden at The Cosmopolitan Hotel (affectionately known as The Cosmo by locals) is like no other. This Trentham-based pub celebrated 157 years this year, and the established gardens and hundred-yearold elm trees stand proudly, providing dappled light on a summer afternoon. With an ethos of supporting local, you will find food, beer and wine all sourced from the region.

LE BOUCHON AT ATTWOODS
Le Bouchon serves up traditional French fare surrounded by classic Australian landscapes. Get comfortable sitting in the terraced garden overlooking lush rolling hills. As the weather begins to get warmer, picture yourself having a long lunch in the garden, glass of chardonnay in hand. You could be forgiven for thinking you have been transported to the wine regions of France.

THE VIRGIN KITCHEN
Located in the heart of Hepburn Springs, think stylish cane armchairs, a white pebble stone courtyard and a sense of serenity. An established leafy garden and Parisian style umbrellas will shade you from the summer sun. Or arrive later and settle in for dinner as the sun sinks over the surrounding forest. Local produce is the hero on the fresh and modern all-day menu.

KUZU IZAKAYA
Order a sake, take a seat under a colourful umbrella and prepare to be nourished Kuzu style. Whether it’s traditional sashimi or something more adventurous like kangaroo tartare, you’re in for a treat.

THE SOCIAL FOUNDRY
The Social Foundry is both good for the soul and good for the belly. A social enterprise in the heart of Kyneton with a funky outdoor deck, planter boxes and Astro Turf, the all-day menu is contemporary with a healthy fresh vibe. For the sweet tooth, the house baked goodies are to die for.

BETEL BOY
There is no better place to people watch than on a comfy couch in the main street of Daylesford. Order a cocktail and settle in for an afternoon or evening of authentic Pan Asian. Daylesford loves a bit of fanfare, and this is the prime position to capture the action of popular events such as ChillOut or Daylesford’s New Year’s Eve Parade.