Celebrate inclusivity at ChillOut Festival, indulge in the pie and tipple trails at the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival, or take on the challenge of Run the Rock. Immerse yourself in storytelling at Clunes Booktown, soak up live music at CresFest and the Macedon Ranges Music Festival, or experience the creativity of the Castlemaine Fringe Festival. And make sure you don’t miss The Great Trentham Spudfest, which celebrates all things potato, and more.

AUTUMN EVENTS

ChillOut Festival, Daylesford

From humble beginnings in 1997, ChillOut Festival has grown to become Australia’s largest and longest-running Queer Country Pride festival. The theme this year is “Rainbow Circus Spectacular.” Expect four days of performances, music, theatre, drag, community events, and local food and wine over the Labour Day long weekend in the LGBTQIA+ capital of regional Victoria. The star-studded lineup features Marcia Hines, Spankie Jackzon, the Rogue Traders Duo, Milo Hartill, Rhys Nicholson, Joel Creasey, Geraldine Hickey, Gabriella Labucci, Joanne, Jawbreakers, Bec Sandridge, Brenda Bressed, Ziegfeld Boy, Mama Alto, DJ Du Jour, Rosie Rai and more.

When: Friday 6 – Monday 10 March 2025 (Labour Day long weekend)
Where: Multiple venues throughout Daylesford and surrounds
Tickets: ChillOut includes a range of free and ticketed events, view the full program at chilloutfestival.com.au

Hanging Rock Craft Market, Hanging Rock Reserve

Head along to the iconic Hanging Rock this March for this fabulous craft and produce market, which will feature 200 stalls. Whether you’re after a unique handmade gift, stylish home décor, or fresh gourmet treats, this market has something for everyone. After shopping, enjoy a picnic with delicious treats on offer from food stall, then explore Hanging Rock itself. The views from the summit are well worth the short, yet steep, walk.

When: Saturday 15 March, 2025
Where: Hanging Rock Reserve (South Rock Road, Woodend)
Park entry: $10 per car
craftmarkets.com.au/hanging-rock

Clunes Booktown

The Clunes Booktown Festival will return this March, marking its 19th year as one of Australia’s most cherished regional literary events. The festival will transform the picturesque main street of Clunes into a bustling haven of activity, promising a rich and immersive experience for book lovers and rookie readers of all ages. This year’s vibrant program explores the art of storytelling in all its diverse forms, with author talks on the power of the media, writing about music, sustainability, and the breakout genres of cosy crime and romantasy. Speakers include literary icons Helen Garner and Kate Grenville, gardening expert Costa Georgiadis, Back Roads Heather Ewart and more.

When: Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 March 2025
Where: Multiple venues throughout Clunes
Tickets: A range of festival passes are available, starting from $10. View the full program at ticketing options at clunesbooktown.org.au

Run the Rock, Hanging Rock Reserve

Experience the thrill of Run the Rock, challenge yourself to the Half Marathon (22K), 13.5K, 5K or inspire the next generation of runners with the Kids 2K. Push your limits and chase your goals surrounded by beautiful nature. Enjoy the fun family activities and live entertainment in the event village post-race – then spend the rest of the day exploring the Macedon Ranges.

When: Saturday 22 March 2025
Where: Hanging Rock Reserve, Woodend
solemotive.com/pages/run-the-rock-home

Castlemaine Fringe Festival

For over 30 years, Castlemaine Fringe has been a platform for independent artists, musicians, performers, and creatives, offering a space for innovation and artistic expression outside the mainstream. Fringe is rooted in inclusion, accessibility, and community participation, ensuring that local talent is supported while keeping the arts accessible to all audiences. The 2025 program features more than 160 events, spanning music, theatre, visual arts, literature, film, comedy, and workshops, with a mix of ticketed and free performances

When: 22 March – 6 April 2025
Where: Various venues throughout Castlemaine
Tickets: on sale now at castlemainefringe.org.au

Macedon Ranges Music Festival, Hanging Rock

The Macedon Ranges Music Festival (MRMF) 2025 returns with an incredible line up of live music at the iconic Hanging Rock. As one of Victoria’s premier community-driven events, MRMF promises an unforgettable day of outstanding performances, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere—all while raising funds for the Cambodian Kids Foundation. Headline acts include Emma Donovan, Steph Strings,

Hot Potato Band, Fools, Son Quba, and Joshua Balten.

When: Saturday 29 March 2025
Where: Hanging Rock Reserve
Tickets: $40 for adults, $15 for kids (6-17), kids under 5 are free. On sale now at macedonrangesmusicfestival.org

Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival

Join the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival celebration throughout April. Less than an hour from Melbourne, discover moveable feasts, spectacular vistas, and leafy picnic locations aglow with seasonal colour. Revel in nature’s mindfulness, unearthing delectable farm-fresh food and drink adventures across nine charming regional villages. Savour an authentic autumnal immersion featuring mouth-watering culinary events, destination gardens, artisanal workshops, genuine farmers markets, guided walks, and gallery exhibitions. Collect a Festival Map & Passport and let your palate guide the way along Australia’s biggest Pie & Tart Trail, the Edgy Veg Trail, or the full of spirit Tipple Trail. Gather Passport stamps at participating venues to enter the Ultimate Festival competition.

When: 1-30 April 2025
Where: Across the nine villages of the Macedon Ranges
visitmacedonranges.com/autumn-festival

CresFest, Creswick

CresFest, the amazing roots and folk music festival, brings three days of dance and music in the beautiful heritage town of Creswick. Celebrating its fourth festival in 2025, CresFest is about the joy of live music – playing it, hearing it, watching it, dancing to it, learning it, being inspired by it. More than just concerts, you’ll have the chance to participate through a densely packed program of workshops including singing, dancing and playing. Headline acts include Neil Murray, The Maes, Joe Geia, Chris Stout & Catriona McKay (UK), Grassy Strings (India), plus many more.

When: Friday 4 to Sunday 6 April 2025
Where: Multiple venues around Creswick
Tickets: on sale now at cresfest.com.au

Mt Macedon Anzac Day Dawn Service, Mount Macedon

Each Anzac Day, the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross, a striking 21m high monument near the summit of Mount Macedon, provides a spectacular, evocative setting for one of the largest dawn services in Victoria. This year’s theme is ‘The Unseen Wounds of Conflict’, exploring the many impacts that war has on those who serve, from the physical injuries to the mental effects and the wider repercussions for families. The event shares the stories of local service people.

When: Friday 25 April, 2025
Where: Cameron Drive, Mount Macedon – access to the Dawn Service is via bus only. Attendees must book a seat on one of the free bus services that operates from each township across the Macedon Ranges and Sunbury. Alternatively, a continuous shuttle service operates from Tony Clarke Reserve – Waterfalls Road, Macedon from 4:15am. Bookings are not required for this shuttle service. mtmacedondawnservice.org

Malmsbury Village Fayre

Held in the Botanical Gardens of the historic town of Malmsbury, the 24th Malmsbury Village Fayre promises a fun day out for all. Enjoy a lively music program and plenty of fun for the kids, along with over 50 stalls featuring regionally produced arts, crafts, and products.

When: Sunday 28 April 2025
Where: Malmsbury Botanic Gardens, Malmsbury
malmsburyvillagefayre.org.au

The Great Trentham Spudfest, Trentham

The tiny township of Trentham celebrates its long history of potato growing with The Great Trentham Spudfest, a community-led festival bringing together local potato growers, artisans, music, food vendors, and history to showcase the region’s finest offerings across one weekend. On Saturday, join the festivities at the famous street fair. Visit four precincts packed full of delicious spud food, fresh regional produce, local artisan makers, live music, and loads of activities for kids and adults alike. Sunday is all about food and discovery—explore farm gates, join a historic tour, visit local farms, or enjoy spud-themed dishes throughout Trentham and surrounds.

When: Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 May 2025
Where: Various venues throughout Trentham and surrounds
trenthamspudfest.org.au

The Dirty Pig & Whistle, Creswick

The Dirty Pig & Whistle is a weekend of gravel, grit, and good times in Victoria’s Goldfields. Kick off Saturday with an adrenaline-pumping cyclo-cross, then tackle Sunday’s gravel rides—choose from 40km, 80km, 120km, or 160km of winding, leaf-strewn trails that will test your mettle. When the riding’s done, swap stories and warm up by the village fire pits with fellow adventurers. Based in Creswick, just 90-minutes from Melbourne, this is your chance to embrace the elements, push your limits, and experience gravel riding at its best.

When: Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 May, 2025
Where: In and around Creswick
pigandwhistle.cc

FOOD EVENTS & NEWS

Experience Lake House & nearby Dairy Flat Farm, Daylesford

During autumn, guests booking in for lunch at Lake House on Mondays are invited to make it a real farm to table experience with an optional, complimentary guided tour of Dairy Flat Farm – just minutes away – followed by a multi course a la carte lunch in Lake House’s beautiful dining room. The 45-minute tour commences at 11.30am and comprehensively covers all their regenerative practices. The farm’s vast garden now plays a major role in shaping Lake House menus, supplying a bounty of fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Guests may meet the Dairy Flat Farm baking team or run into our guinea fowl, geese, peacocks, alpacas, and British White cows.

When: every Monday during autumn
Where: Lake House + Dairy Flat Farm, Daylesford
Bookings: are essential, $210 pp for the tour and a multi-course a la carte lunch
lakehouse.com.au/restaurant

Spanish Summer Memories with El Pintxo Melbourne at Lyons Will Estate, Lancefield

Celebrate the best of Spanish bar culture and summer with El Pintxo, at Lyons Will Estate in Lancefield. Iker and Shirin of El Pintxo are passionate about food, culture, and their Spanish heritage. In 2024, they traveled 10,000km across Spain, exploring iconic dishes from Michelin-starred chefs to vibrant street food. Now, they’re bringing those flavors to Lyons Will with a special lunch series. Featuring the finest local and Spanish ingredients, their “menú del día” is a tribute to the bars, chefs, and bites they fell in love with.
When: Sunday 2 March and Sunday 9 March, 2025
Where: Lyons Will Estate, 60 Whalans Track, Lancefield
Cost: $75 pp, bookings available now via Open Table
lyonswillestate.com.au/events.html

Big Tree Distillery – autumn events

This autumn, Big Tree Distillery is turning up the fun with Sunday Sessions on the first Sunday of March and April—think woodfired pizzas, refreshing G&Ts, and live music. Plus, don’t miss the Sunset Cocktail & Canapés event on Saturday, April 26, where guests can sip expertly crafted Big Tree Gin cocktails, enjoy gourmet bites, and soak up live tunes. Tickets are available now via the Big Tree website. Big Tree Distillery is located in Newham in the heart of the Macedon Ranges, a short drive from Woodend, Kyneton or Lancefield.

When: Big Tree Distillery Sunday Sessions – Sunday 2 March and Sunday 6 April | Sunset Cocktail Canapés – Saturday 26 April
Where: Big Tree Distillery, 307 Hennerbergs Road, Newham
More information: bigtreedistillery.com.au/blogs/big-tree-events

Mount Monument – International Reisling Day + Autumn Feast of Toscana

Mount Monument winery is hosting two must-attend events during autumn.

International Reisling Day x MM – join them in the sunshine on the lawns of Mount Monument winery as you enjoy an exclusive tasting of pre-release Mount Monument Estate riesling vintages ’21, ’22, ’23, ’24. Hear about their estate grown cool-climate wines and enjoy the view of the sculpture park from the sun draped lawns while indulging in seafood canapes paired perfectly with Mount Monument wines. Happening on Sunday 16 March from 12pm to 2pm. Tickets are $50pp.

Sangiovese Serata – Autumn Feast of Toscana – celebrate Autumn with Mount Monument’s Sangiovese Serata, paired with an autumnal 3-course Tuscan inspired feast to delight the senses. Think rich and earthy dishes to complement this bold and beautiful, yet refreshingly approachable varietal. Happening on Saturday 12 April from 5pm, tickets are $150pp.

Where: Mount Monument, Romsey Road, Romsey
More information: Bookings are essential, go to mountmonument.com.au/whats-on/events

The Kyneton Hotel X Granite Hills Winery lunch

Head along to Kyneton Hotel on Friday, April 25th, for a special Fancy Friday lunch as they raise a glass to Granite Hills Winery’s 50th vintage. Nestled in the picturesque Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Granite Hills is renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines and rich winemaking heritage. Enjoy a carefully curated 5-course meal from the Kyneton Hotel kitchen, with optional wine pairings, celebrating this iconic winery.

When: Friday 25 April, from 12:30pm
Where: Kyneton Hotel, Mollison Street, Kyneton
Cost: $80pp for food with optional wine pairings
thekynetonhotel.com.au

Hero Image: Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, photo by Ash + Elm Studios

Whether you’re seeking stunning gardens, fishing, heritage train tours, a brewery tour, a walking tour, or something else, the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region has plenty of affordable options.

MACEDON RANGES

HANGING ROCK RESERVE (NGANNELONG)
If you haven’t been, go. If you have, go again. It’s a wonderful spot to visit on your own, or with your family. The views from the top of ‘The Rock’ are well worth the short, yet steep hike. Be sure to visit the Hanging Rock Discovery Centre, which provides a fascinating background on the history, mystery and geology of the Rock. It’s only $10 for the family (for a car pass).
mrsc.vic.gov.au/See-Do/Our-Region/Natural-Attractions/Hanging-Rock

FOREST GLADE GARDENS
At almost 100 years old, Forest Glade Gardens are acknowledged as some of the most beautiful gardens in Australia. Wander through the gardens at your own leisure, taking in the huge exotic trees, beautiful woodland area, cool fern gully and delightful Japanese garden. Open daily, adults are $15, kids are free.
forestgladegardens.com.au

HOLGATE BREWHOUSE BREWERY TOUR
Our friends at Holgate have been brewing great beer for years. Go behind the scenes and see where the magic happens on a brewery tour, every Saturday and Sunday at 3pm. Cost is $25pp and includes a four or six pack of beer.
holgatebrewhouse.com

EDGAR’S MISSION
If you’re an animal lover, book a farm tour of Edgar’s Mission to see rescued goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys and more living in harmony in Lancefield. On the tour you’ll get to learn about this not-for-profit’s incredible work and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to hand-feed the goats a Weet-Bix or two. Tours are free, but must be booked in advance.

DAYLESFORD & SURROUNDS

TUKI
This beautiful 1200-acre farm is 25-minutes northeast of Daylesford. $22 for adults, or $18 for children will get you admission, plus the use of fishing rods with bait. You pay for what you catch, and they’ll also cook it up for you.
tuki.com.au

MAZE HOUSE
Half way between Daylesford and Creswick, you’ll find the much-loved Maze House. There’s a traditional hedge maze, old school carnival games, gardens and a milk bar. Adults $14 / Kids $12.
mazehouse.com.au

HEPBURN SPRINGS MINERAL RESERVE
Our region is home to over 80% of Australia’s mineral springs. The water from each spring has distinct flavour and a variety of health benefits. One of the best spots to taste the water is Hepburn Reserve, there is also a playground for kids, and walking tracks to some of the more remote springs. And the best part is that it is free.

SPA COUNTRY RAILWAY / DAYLESFORD SUNDAY MARKET
Daylesford’s Sunday Market, right next to the train station, is super popular with locals and visitors alike. Every Sunday, you can jump aboard a heritage train that winds through beautiful forest and farmland. Family tickets are $40 for a roundtrip to Musk, or $50 to Bullarto and back.
dscr.com.au

GUIDED WALK OF DAYLESFORD
Discover the fascinating stories behind many of Daylesford’s grand gold rush era buildings on a guided walk with Daizy from Alice’s Journeys. Kids under ten are free, teens are $25 and adults are $50.
alicesjourneys.com

THE CONVENT DAYLESFORD
Perched on the slopes of Wombat Hill, this grand old building contains eight gallery spaces, picturesque gardens, a renowned café and retail space, along with a museum and chapel. The six acres of exquisite gardens have been compared to some of the most famous in Versailles and are reason alone for visiting. Gallery admission is $10 for adults or $8 for concession.
conventgallery.com.au

Hero Image: Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, photo by Chloe Smith Photography

From cosy wine bars and fine dining restaurants, to secluded stays and sweet treats, here is a hit list of where to go when you want to spoil that special someone.

Dinner for two

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to dine in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. Our region is home to an impressive number of chef hatted and award winning restaurants, all serving incredible cuisine, matched with exceptional service – the perfect date night combination. Hot tip: make sure you book ahead, these venues often book out well in advance.

• Lake House, Daylesford
• Kadota, Daylesford
• Sault Restaurant, Daylesford
• Daylesford Hotel, Daylesford
• Bistro Terroir, Daylesford
• The Boathouse Restaurant, Daylesford
• The Argus Dining Room, Hepburn Springs
• The Surly Goat, Hepburn Springs
• Le Bouchon at Attwoods, Glenlyon
• Passing Clouds Winery, Musk
• Marchesa, Kyneton
• Kuzu Izakaya, Woodend
• Mount Monument, Romsey
• Mount Macedon Winery, Woodend
• Mount Towrong Vineyard, Mount Macedon

Cosy wine bars and cool cocktails

Get cosy with your special someone at one of the regions many wine bars and cocktail lounges. Sip on some local sparkling wine paired with a grazing platter, or go for an expertly crafted cocktail featuring locally distilled gin.

• • Woodend Cellar & Bar, Woodend
  • Gindu Distillery Door, Woodend
  • 600 Above, Woodend
  • Botanik, Kyneton
  • Still Moon House, Trentham
  • Bar Merenda, Daylesford
  • Betel Boy, Daylesford
  • Hepburn Distillery, Daylesford
  • Winespeake Cellar + Deli, Daylesford

Outdoor Adventure

If your main squeeze happens to be adventurous, we’ve got some cool outdoor activities in the fresh, open air too:

• Hike to the summit of Hanging Rock, you’ll feel on top of the world standing atop of the rock with your love by your side.
• Go for a splash at one of the regions many waterholes, top picks include Vaughan Springs and Jubilee Lake – the latter of which you can hire out canoes and paddle boats for a romantic paddle across the water.
• Get cosy as you watch the sun sink over the surrounding hills. Check out our guide for the best spots to watch the sunset.
• Pack a picnic and take a wander through one of our historic botanic gardens. Take your pick from Kyneton Botanic Gardens, Malmsbury Botanic Gardens, Castlemaine Botanic Gardens or Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. Grab a ready to go picnic from Daylesford Gourmet, which is full of local goodies.

Secluded Stays

The rolling hills, lush forests and verdant countryside lends itself to plenty of locations for a secluded and romantic stay. Pack your bags and leave the hustle and bustle of your busy life behind as you and your loved one settle in at one of these romantic abodes:

• Fellcroft Farmstay, Cobaw
• Acre of Roses, Trentham
• Little Wren Cottage, Romsey
• Viola, Hepburn Springs (managed by Daylesford Country Retreats)
• Braeside Mt Macedon
• Hanging Rock Views, Woodend
• Lumella, Bullarto (managed by Dayget)
• Little Hampton Farm, Little Hampton
• Norsu Cabin, Macedon (managed by Discover Daylesford)
• Malmsbury Barn House, Malmsbury

Why camp when you can glamp

Whether you want romantic sunsets, remote natural beauty or somewhere to gaze at the starlit sky with your lover by your side, you’ll find plenty of luxury romantic glamping locations around here:

• Cosy Tents, Yandoit
• Daylesford Glamping
• Garden of St Erth, Blackwood
• Lawson Lodge, Macedon 
• Big 4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park, Castlemaine 
• Skyview Bubbletent, Eganstown

Something sweet

Now we couldn’t have a Valentine’s Day list without including some sweet treats. And luckily, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to locally made chocolate and decadent treats in our region. Top picks include:

• The Chocolate Mill, Mt Franklin
• Daylesford Hot Chocolate Company
• Le Peche Gourmand, Creswick
• Cabosse & Feve, Castlemaine
• Sisko Chocolate, Kyneton
• Twankey’s Café, Clunes
• Sweet Decadence at Locantro, Daylesford

Flowers

Nothing says ‘I love you’ more than a beautiful floral creation. In Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, we are home to some of the best slow flower growers in the country. Some of our favourites include:

• Fleurs de Lyonville, Lyonville
• Spring Hill Peony Farm, Spring Hill
• Loganberry Farm, Korweinguboora
• Little Flower Stall, Woodend
• Woodend Flower Farm

Check out a full list of flower growers, stockists and florists here.

Come for the weekend…or longer

Make the most of our summer specials and snag yourself a Valentine’s Day deal and truly treat your loved one. Choose from bonus night stays, dining discounts, massage and bathing specials, plus lots more! Check out our Summer Deals here.

Featured image: Acre of Roses

DAY 1 – KYNETON

Start your journey in Kyneton, an easy hour’s drive north of Melbourne along the Calder Freeway. On arrival, explore Black Hill Reserve by hiking around The Monolith, one of Australia’s largest granite rocks. Then stroll along the Campaspe River Walk, a picturesque trail snaking past Kyneton’s Botanical Gardens, a sculpture park and platypus habitat.  

Back in town, the heritage-listed Piper Street houses galleries, boutiques and some of Victoria’s best food and drink offerings. Peruse designer wares at Kabinett, before popping upstairs to Botanik for finely crafted cocktail. Dine on delicious Italian fare at Marchesa or grab a picnic to go at Piper Street Food Co. Before leaving, make sure you pop into Cavaletti Gallery and The Old Auction House for handcrafted goods.

DAY 2 – MALMSBURY, LANCEFIELD & ROMSEY

Start day two in the enchanting hamlet of Malmsbury, with breakfast at the Malmsbury Bakery. Explore the verdant botanic gardens (keeping an eye out for the local geese) and the spectacular 1860s bluestone Malmsbury Viaduct – Victoria’s largest masonry bridge. Be sure to pop into Madame Vintage and Rathdowne Antiques to peruse the vintage wares.

Then discover some of the area’s cool climate wineries. At Parkside Estate and Farm (between Lancefield and Romsey), soak up breathtaking views while sampling award-winning sparkling and chardonnay. North of Lancefield is Curly Flat Vineyard, known for its naturally fermented wines. 

Drop in for lunch (weekends only) at Cleveland Winery where the wood-fired pizzas are perfect with a glass of sparkling pinot noir or full-bodied shiraz. Finish off at The Lost Watering Hole, where you can sip on locally crafted brews as you tuck into a hearty main. 

DAY 3 – MOUNT MACEDON & WOODEND

With its bright red door reflecting the flame-coloured leaves atop Mount Macedon during autumn, the Trading Post is the ultimate stop for house-made cakes, pies and local produce. Down the mountain is Mount Towrong vineyard, a sustainable family-owned winery serving rustic Italian fare to match their crisp wines. 

Rising from the surrounding countryside is Hanging Rock, known as Ngannelong by the Traditional Owners of the land. Hike to the summit or thread your way through the reserve on numerous paths before grabbing a bite to eat at Hanging Rock Café. Time for a tipple? Nearby, you can sample award-winning small batch gins at Big Tree Distillery. Or stop by Woodend’s Holgate Brewhouse and Taproom, where an extensive range of craft beers are brewed on site. Afterwards, head for a nightcap at either Gindu or Woodend Cellar & Bar.

DAY 4: HARCOURT, CASTLEMAINE & MALDON 

Pack your bags for a short, northern detour through charming goldfields towns. 

Have breakfast at the Harcourt Produce and General Store (try a Danish tart). A great playground is opposite, while keen mountain bikers should hit the trails at La Larr Bagauwa Park. In Castlemaine, the artisan smallgoods, boutique wines, fresh sourdough, cheese and chocolate are popular at The Mill Castlemaine. For lunch try locals favourites, Wild or Das Kaffeehaus. 

Then board the Victorian Goldfields Steam Railway, journeying through Box-Ironbark forest and the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung. Arriving in Maldon, Australia’s first notable town, noted for its 19th century appearance maintained since the gold rush era. The beautiful heritage streetscape is a treasure trove of antique shops, collectables and local galleries offering carefully curated lifestyle products for your home.

DAY 5: DAYLESFORD 

Renowned for its creative communities, it’s time to discover Daylesford’s local artists. Start at the majestic Convent Gallery where exhibitions change regularly. Then explore Black Gallery, or Clayfire Gallery. For beautiful ceramics, visit Minna Graham’s studio, where nature has a dramatic influence on her creations. For lunch, try Wombat Hill House – a darling, renovated cottage or locals’ favourite, Cliffy’s Emporium. 

There’s no better place to indulge than in Australia’s spa capital where Swiss and Italian migrants have long championed the area’s mineral springs. Bring an empty bottle for the pure waters at the Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve. 

For complete relaxation, book into Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, soaking tension away in the mineral waters before a massage. Follow up with a delicious multi course dinner menu (choose from two, three or four courses) at The Boathouse Daylesford, a delightful French influenced restaurant sitting atop Lake Daylesford.

DAY 6: CRESWICK, CLUNES & TALBOT

An easy 20-minute drive west of Daylesford, is Creswick, with its historic redbrick buildings, iconic Woollen Mill and  Djuwang Baring mountain bike park. A little further north you’ll find historic Clunes (a town for true booklovers, and the site of Clunes Booktown each March). From there, it’s a short drive to Talbot, home to a charming goldrush era streetscape. Time it right and you’ll catch the Talbot Farmers’ Market (third Sunday of every month) – recognised as one of the region’s best. 

DAY 7: MUSK, BULLARTO AND LYONVILLE

Stock up on European-style meats from Istra Smallgoods’ farmgate in Musk. While in the area, visit Stonewalls at Musk – artist Andrew O’Brien’s stunning vision to combine art, hospitality and design. Then stop at the estate vineyard of Passing Clouds, renowned for its complex pinot noir and crisp chardonnay. And art lovers – don’t miss Bullarto Gallery, which exhibits the visceral art of painter Phillip Edwards. 

Have lunch or dinner at the quirky, yet charming Radio Springs Hotel in Lyonville, where the European leaning menu features fresh, seasonal dishes.

DAY 8: TRENTHAM & BLACKWOOD

Trentham a mini-but-mighty town with excellent dining options, such the iconic Cosmopolitan Hotel. or the welcoming Hotel Trentham. A short drive away you’ll also find the newly reopened Pig and Whistle Hotel, which offers an elevated pub experience on a quiet, back country road. Minutes from Trentham’s town centre is Trentham Falls, Victoria’s highest single-drop waterfall. If there’s time on the clock for a spectacular garden, drop into The Garden of St Erth in the picturesque village of Blackwood, tucked in between the Wombat and Lerderderg State Park.   

A short drive from Blackwood gets you to the Western Highway, 45 minutes from Melbourne.

Return home sated, relaxed and with the knowledge that whatever you didn’t manage this time, there’s always next time in the Daylesford Macedon Ranges Region.

Thinking of bringing your furry friend along with you? Here are some pet friendly options: 

Stay

• Birch House, Daylesford
• Jubilee Lake Park, Daylesford
• Matilda Cottage, Gisborne
• East Wing, Kyneton

Eat & Drink

• Wombat Hill House, Daylesford
• Cliffy’s Emporium, Daylesford
• Pancho Café, Daylesford
• Daylesford Cider
• Mount Towrong Vineyard, Mount Macedon
• Mount Macedon Winery
• The Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham

Hero image: Mount Towrong Cellar Door

Escape the heat this summer and enjoy the fresh mountain air in Daylesford & the Macedon Ranges. We have plenty happening all summer long. Hit the bike tracks at the all new Djuwang Baring, sip on a craft brew at Shedshaker’s impressive new Taproom or pop into the soon to open Macedon Village Hotel.

Gather the clan for the Daylesford Highland Gathering, sip on cool-climate wines at the annual Summertime Fling Festival or celebrate the arrival of 2025 at the Daylesford New Year’s Eve Parade and Gala. We also have cooking classes, a new distillery, Sunday gin sessions and more.

Here’s a list of what’s new and what’s happening this summer.

What’s New

In Kyneton, wear your elastic waisted pants because the pies here are recognised as the best in the country. Country Cob Bakery are famous for their award-winning pies and numerous accolades, including being named Australia’s best pie maker on four separate occasions by the Baking Association of Australia. Whichever pie you choose, it’s hard to go wrong at this small but mighty bakery.

They aren’t the only ones making notable pies in Kyneton. As you arrive at Piper Street Food Co., the front window reads “We make splendid pies” and they really do. Their traditional pork pie is dense and rich, everything a pork pie should be, and you can also pick up an array of goodies for a picnic.

Further down Piper Street, visit Grist Artisan Bakers, their chicken, cauliflower and parmesan pies have visible layers of puff pastry and come in family size or party pies.

At Malmsbury Bakery, everything is made from scratch daily, using locally sourced ingredients. Their steak and mushroom pie, served with a tasty homemade chutney, is a standout—best enjoyed in the bakery’s charming, leafy courtyard. 

In Woodend, the Holgate beef pie at Holgate Brewhouse is packed with ultra-tender beef chunks, lardons, and mushrooms. Enjoy it alongside a tasting paddle of their award-winning brews. Another pub favourite is the Guinness Pie at the Pig & Whistle Hotel in Trentham East, served with minted peas and Trentham spuds.

Or pair your pie with a local brew at Darraweit Valley Cider House, your tastebuds will be sent into a spin with their pork and caramalised apple pie. Every bit as decadent as it sounds.

The recently revitalised Daylesford Hotel features an incredibly moreish duck pie with sour-cream puff pastry. Or for families seeking a no fuss options. The Daylesford Bakery pies are no nonsense and delicious. The pepper beef is loaded with pepper and big chunks of meat. For a sweet treat order the apricot pie.

Daylesford Meat Co. make all their pies onsite using seasonal ingredients, they even have a ‘Keep Calm and Eat Pies’ pack, a selection of five family size pies to keep you fed all weekend. A little further up Vincent Street, Himalaya Bakery have a range of handmade vegan and vegetarian pies. The spinach and potato or smoked tofu are popular options.

In Castlemaine, Johnny Baker is wowing punters with their sheer variety of flavours. Think beef rendang and potato, cauliflower cheese or venison and port. Choosing which flavour to go with is the hardest part.

Nearby in Harcourt, tuck into a chunky pepper steak pie at Harcourt Produce & General Store. Made onsite, these tasty morsels are best paired with one of their famous homemade Danishes.

Photography by Chloe Smith.