We have some exciting new accommodation options available, from stylish cottages to luxurious retreats.

The Cosmo Cottage, (Trentham) blends history and modern design, while Glenfern House (Romsey) offers luxury within a former winery. In Daylesford, Durham Cottage charms with designer interiors, Ridge Vue Retreat boasts Mount Franklin views, and Balneo provides a serene spa escape. Bainbridge House (Coomera) features impeccable craftsmanship, while The Art Retreat (Daylesford) and Lucini Two (Hepburn Springs) both offer a cosy retreat for couples. Chester Cottage (Castlemaine) combines art and comfort, The Brickyards is an art filled retreat that’s ideal for groups, while an old favourite, Isabella at Kyneton celebrates 20 years of timeless hospitality.

The Cosmo Cottage, Trentham 

The Cosmo Cottage is a luxurious new addition to The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham. This beautifully renovated three-bedroom weatherboard cottage is situated within the hotel’s historic gardens, shaded by century-old elm trees. Designed by Marcus Roberts Architect, the cottage features modern fixtures and fittings of the highest standard, providing both comfort and style.
Bookings: thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au/accommodation

Glenfern House, Romsey 

Opened just six months ago, Glenfern sits on the former site of Cope Williams Winery, one of the region’s original flagship wineries. New owners David and Tara have fully refurbished this four-bedroom, Romsey-based property, with high-end furnishings and appliances. Guests can enjoy exclusive use of the onsite cricket oval and the award-winning “Tramlines” garden, designed by Dylan Alcott and Vivid Designs, which debuted at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show.

Bookings: relaxholidayrentals.com.au/listings/280625 

Chester Cottage, Castlemaine

Blending Castlemaine’s artistic heritage with modern comforts, Chester Cottage offers a stylish retreat in a thoughtfully restored historic home. Owned by a designer with deep local roots, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom house sleeps five and features two living areas, a fully equipped kitchen, a wood fireplace, central heating, a smart TV, and a bath. The newly landscaped garden, grand verandah, and serene nooks provide the perfect space to unwind. With curated local artworks and quality produce, every detail is designed for a relaxing, art-filled escape.

Bookings: flophouse.com.au/chester-cottage

The Brickyards, Hepburn Springs

The Brickyards offers three unique retreats designed by celebrated Australian artist David Bromley. Set on two acres of rustic gardens with Wombat State Forest views, these thoughtfully curated spaces can accommodate 10 guests over 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, making it ideal for groups seeking both shared and private spaces. Each retreat is infused with Bromley’s signature artistic flair, featuring original paintings, sculptures, and eclectic decor for a truly creative escape. 

Bookings: discoverdaylesford.com/brickyards 

Balneo, Daylesford

This cosy one-bedroom villa offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. Large windows fill the welcoming space with light, while a spa bath overlooking a Zen garden adds to the tranquility. A wood heater keeps it cosy in cooler months, perfect for unwinding. Just a short drive from Daylesford’s cafés and shops, it’s an ideal spot to relax and recharge.

Bookings: dayget.com.au/accommodation/balneo

Ridge Vue Retreat, Daylesford

Ridge Vue Retreat is a stylish sanctuary with breathtaking Mount Franklin views. This 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom escape is located an easy walk from Cliffy’s and the Daylesford Sunday Market. The open-plan living space features cosy nooks, a triple-sided gas fireplace, and a chef’s kitchen for shared meals. Outdoors, a fire pit and stylish seating invite stargazing.

Bookings: dayget.com.au/accommodation/ridge-vue-retreat

Durham Cottage, Daylesford

Nestled in the heart of Daylesford, Durham Cottage is a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom retreat. Elegantly furnished, its interiors feature designer upholstery, curated treasures, and soft ambient lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy dining by the gas log fire, stepping onto the garden deck, or soaking in natural light from the open-plan living area. A fully equipped country-style kitchen and lush landscaped gardens complete this charming escape.

Bookings: dayget.com.au/accommodation/durham-cottage

Lucini Two, Hepburn Springs

Lucini Two is a cosy one-bedroom cottage in Hepburn Springs, featuring an open-plan lounge, cathedral ceilings, a king bed, gas fireplace, and air conditioning. Enjoy the spa bath, private balcony, and outdoor entertaining area with a BBQ. Dog-friendly with a secure deck, it’s a 15-minute scenic walk to town.

Bookings: daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/accommodation/lucini-two

Bainbridge House, Coomera

Impeccable craftsmanship blends with an Australian bush setting to create this incredible three-bedroom home, just outside Daylesford. Meticulously fitted out and designed by a family of furniture makers, it includes high-end detailed cabinetry, a soaring ceiling, and multiple outdoor options for entertaining and relaxing. Each of the bedrooms offers beautiful views, while the living space features floor-to-ceiling windows and lake-facing views.

Bookings: daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/accommodation/bainbridge-house

The Art Retreat, Daylesford

The Art Retreat is a secluded one-bedroom hideaway set in a stunning garden, just moments from Daylesford’s main street yet peaceful and private. Tucked behind the owner’s art studio, it features a four-poster bed, premium bedding, an ethanol fire, and a private courtyard. Enjoy garden views, native birdlife, and a quiet escape with the option to greet your hosts or keep to yourself.

Bookings: daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/accommodation/the-art-retreat

Kingfisher Loft, Daylesford

Kingfisher Loft is a stylish 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom cottage in the heart of Daylesford. The open-plan living area connects to a fully equipped kitchen, while upstairs, each bedroom has its own ensuite with scenic views. Relax in the spa bath for unwinding in the private alfresco area and beautiful surrounding gardens.

Bookings: discoverdaylesford.com/kingfisher-loft

20 years of Isabella at Kyneton 

Although not new, Isabella at Kyneton deserves a mention as it celebrates 20 years as an accommodation venue in 2025. Built in 1890, this beautifully restored retreat blends historic charm with modern comfort, providing the perfect home away from home in the heart of Kyneton. Featuring three spacious bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and lush gardens, this 4-star accredited property is one of Kyneton’s most popular escapes, with many returning guests.

Bookings: isabellaatkyneton.com.au

Hero Image: Ridge Vue Retreat Via Dayget, Daylesford 

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

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

A destination within itself, this uber-cool precinct, in the heart of Castlemaine, has a fascinating history, and an even more exciting future.

When local GP Ronnie Moule, and farmer Phil McConachy bought the derelict Castlemaine Woollen Mill (circa 1870’s) sprawling across approximately three hectares in 2014, they had no defined plan.

“We knew we wanted to do something that acknowledged the site and kept the industrial feel,” Phil says. “With the Botanical Gardens opposite, a coffee shop was a no brainer, so I approached the owners of Coffee Basics to see if they were interested.”

Bean to boom

Originally hailing from Vienna, Edmund Schaerf and Elna Schaef-Turner, already renowned in Castlemaine for delicious inhouse roasted coffee, were up for the challenge.

“We felt it was important to create something special, something to embrace all demographics and be accessible price wise – a legacy business that lasts beyond what is fashionable,” Edmund explains.

Drawing on their 40 years of hospitality and creative flair, after months of hard work Das Kaffeehaus opened in a ballroom sized space superbly curated with a spectacular chandelier, cosy booths, marble tables, original artwork and an authentic Viennese menu.

“We were expecting around 40 people on the first day, but by 10am we were full. In our first year over 200,000 people came through our doors.”

The aroma of roasted coffee wafting in the air, didn’t only bring customers, Das Kaffeehaus helped inspire new tenants.

“We didn’t advertise,” Phil says. “We put a notice on the board out the front and chatted to people about their ideas.”

Based on a strong ethos of everyone working together and developing an ‘us’ community the concept attracted artisans, makers, creatives and service providers from small business start-ups to relocations. By mid 2015 with food and artisan precincts evolving, a third precinct was launched – vintage.

Amid a labyrinth of wide aisles winding through a four-basketball court sized emporium crammed with an eclectic mix of goodies, Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar started drawing people near and far to fulfil the store’s promise – ‘find what you’re not looking for’. And supporting around 120 stallholders, a micro community evolved.

“I always look forward to my on-duty days,” says stallholder Deb Wiglesworth. “There’s such a positive vibe. I love seeing how amazed people who come in are by what they see.”

The pandemic factor

Although the pandemic years were challenging, it certainly didn’t dampen the spirit and creativity of The Mill community.

“We’d only just opened when the pandemic hit,” says Freya Schellhorn artisan chocolatier extraordinaire who, together with her husband Thomas Vandaele, own Cabosse & Feve Chocolates.

“The Mill and Phil were actually the reason we moved from Melbourne to Castlemaine to create our ethically sourced chocolate company. The whole idea of what’s here is really rare and incredible.” During lockdowns, the couple concentrated on brand awareness, online sales and thinking outside the ‘chocolate box’ with home deliveries.

Ivan and Julie Larcher also chose Castlemaine to pursue their dream. After packing up their lives in France and relocating their family to Australia during 2020, they started Long Paddock Cheese incorporating a cheese school.

Using the down time to set up their small factory within The Mill churning out French- style cheese with dreamy Australian names like Silver Wattle, Sundew and Driftwood, the couple started out by selling their products through a window of the business, and the local farmer’s market.

Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns and Doug Falconer owners of Shedshaker Brewing Company are no strangers to hard work. Creating small batch, handcrafted beer, and The Taproom – home of music gigs, art exhibitions, literary events and wholesome pizzas, saw the pandemic era as a chance to reset.

“People suddenly remembered they had amazing backyards to visit in the regional areas,” Jacqueline says. “This coincided with The Mill really coming into its own in terms of a destination. By the time the world opened up again, we were so busy, we were bursting at the seams.” Luckily, Phil posed a possible solution – to move into the last spot on the site.

And so began, a massive restoration of the building where the oldest wall on the property – an 1875 brick beauty that had stood the test of time. Shedshaker Brewing Company and Taproom opened its new home within the precinct, with a capacity of 300 people in November 2024.

To say it’s a triumph is an understatement. Sensitively restored through the fine craftsmanship of local builders, industrial touches like the original steel beams, brick arches and walls blend seamlessly with wood panelling and exposed rafters.

The bar is made from window shutters found on the site and the drumkit chandelier, a nod to Doug Falconer’s drumming career, is a show stopper.

The four hundred solar panels on the roof make a clear sustainability statement and with a state of the art commercial kitchen serving seasonal Italian fare, mezzanine area, comfy couches, dining nooks, outdoor seating, and a stage set for live music, concerts, community events, conventions, literary and art functions there’s plenty of flexibility.

Now and beyond

The Mill Castlemaine has flourished to be a place where tourists and locals alike come to gather, shop, dine, work out, learn a new skill, dance, paint, listen to music, get married, dream and be inspired.

The food precinct with its unique cheese, coffee and chocolate shops in addition to Oakwood Smallgoods Co where qualified Fleischer butcher, Ralf Finke prepares traditional treats; Icecream Republic for scrummy small batch flavours, Sprout Bakery a locals’ haunt, Harvest to pick up organic fruit and vegies and Boomtown Winery and Cellar Bar for house-made wines, after work drinks, long lunches and is also gaining notoriety as a go to place for wedding receptions.

Currently, more than 20,000 people visit the Vintage Bazaar each month. Exclusive businesses like handcrafted perfumery, Mimosa Botanicals, Woollykins, ethically produced wool products, Shivering Timbers and Michael Wolfe Framemaker are tucked into studios.

Artpuff, a small but mighty gallery hosts regular exhibitions; The Drying Shed Art Space houses an ever-evolving display of local artists work in studio spaces, Kiki Design runs mosaicking classes and Richard Baxter’s painting classes are legendary. Real Strength gym is mirror and lycra free, and Pilates at The Mill offers sessions for all ages and stages.

As a Castlemaine icon, with 44 tenants (and a new one coming soon), The Mill Castlemaine is at full capacity, ready for its next decade.

“It’s turned out better than I thought it would,” Phil says modestly.

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