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This lush Victorian town has hot springs, wineries and historic buildings

Credit: Visit Victoria

Pauline Morrissey Pauline Morrissey
From tranquil hot springs to picture-perfect wineries, explore the top things to do in Daylesford, an enticing destination for a restful weekend escape.

At the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, Daylesford beckons as Victoria’s ultimate retreat for relaxation and indulgence. Just an hour from Melbourne, this spa town promises year-round escapes filled with mineral-rich springs, sprawling lavender fields, and some of the finest regional fare.

Whether you’re seeking a day trip or a full weekend away, prepare to surrender to serenity.

Read on for a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Daylesford.

In short

At the very least, eat well, wander slowly and soak it all in. Daylesford rewards those who balance indulgent food with gentle foraging on foot – think long lunches, lake walks, forest trails and just enough culture to round out the day.

Discover unique art at boutique galleries

The Convent Gallery, Daylesford
Step into the 19th-century Convent Gallery. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Daylesford is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, with boutique galleries celebrating both local and international talent. The Convent Gallery, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, charms visitors with its seamless mix of art, history, and panoramic views. Smaller galleries like Michael Parker Gallery and Bromley & Co. showcase thoughtfully curated collections, ensuring art lovers leave inspired.

 Unwind at indulgent hot springs and day spas

The Spa at the Lake House, Daylesford
Be at one with nature at The Spa at Lake House. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Renowned for its mineral springs and spas, Daylesford offers many rejuvenating escapes that perfectly complement the region’s reputation as Australia’s Spa Capital. Indulge in the serene surrounds of the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa or try Japanese-inspired treatments at Shizuka Ryokan. For a full sensory escape, The Spa at Lake House offers treehouse mineral baths and meditative garden views.

Dip into magic. Hepburn Bathhouse has reopened bigger and better – think private mineral baths, custom apothecary soaks and rooms that range from pink-tiled bliss to slate-minimal zen.

 Discover the beauty of the parks and gardens

Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, Daylesford
Enjoy nature walks at Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Nature’s allure shines at Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, set atop an extinct volcano offering shady paths and sweeping views from its lookout tower. Pause for a serene meal at Wombat Hill House, or admire seasonal blooms at the Begonia House. Nearby, Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, home to Australia’s first Bathhouse, features historic buildings, trails to natural springs, a playground, and picnic spots, making it a delightful family outing.

Meander around vibrant markets

crowds of shoppers at Daylesford Sunday Market
Browse through the local stalls for fresh produce and handmade crafts. (Credit: Daylesford Sunday Market)

Bursting with the energy of local makers, the Daylesford Sunday Market is a vibrant hub showcasing the best of the region. With 130 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and antiques, it’s a feast for the senses. Set at the historic railway station, the market includes a farmers’ section brimming with seasonal delights. Its dog-friendly vibe ensures fun for the whole family.

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Experience the magnificent Hanging Rock

hikers exploring Hanging Rock
Explore the mystical Hanging Rock. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Known for its role in Picnic at Hanging Rock, this ancient volcanic formation captivates with its natural beauty and cultural depth. Just a short drive from Daylesford, this natural wonder offers panoramic views via its Summit Walk, where hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas and insights into its significance as a sacred Wurundjeri site. Add a touch of whimsy to your visit by booking a llama trek, a delightful way to experience this cherished landmark.

Go wine tasting at picture-perfect wineries

Hanging Rock Winery, Daylesford
Sample estate-grown wines at the picturesque Hanging Rock Winery. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

In Daylesford’s cool-climate wine region, every sip at its many picture-perfect wineries tells a story. Hanging Rock Winery pairs award-winning riesling with panoramic views. Passing Clouds offers a sun-drenched deck perfect for enjoying their chardonnay, while at Paramoor Winery, minimal intervention techniques highlight the elegance of pinot noir and riesling, creating wines that reflect the region’s distinctive terroir.

Visit Lavandula Farm for Euro charm

geese foraging in a field of lavender
Lavender is at its peak in late summer. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Set amidst 100 acres of lush gardens, Lavandula Farm offers a step back in time with its historic stone buildings and cultivation by Swiss-Italian immigrants over 160 years ago. Stroll through the fragrant lavender fields, which bloom from January into autumn, or enjoy a meal at Maria’s, the country trattoria serving up simple, honest food. Not to be outdone, Tinetti’s Dairy Barn & Wine Shoppe and the Post Office Deli & Larder cater for whatever time you manage to visit.

 Go fishing on Jubilee Lake

a boat on Jubilee Lake
Go for a paddle on Jubilee Lake. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Jubilee Lake is a serene oasis where nature and leisure meet. Teeming with trout and redfin, it’s a dream destination for fishing fans. Walking trails weave through lush scenery, and nearby picnic spots invite leisurely family outings. With boat hire available, visitors can explore the peaceful waters or simply bask in the serenity by the shore. Keep an eye out for ducks, cockatoos, and some beautiful peacocks.

 Discover the area’s scenic trails on foot

Lake Daylesford from above
The ornamental lake boasts natural beauty and a rich history. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Lake Daylesford’s Peace Mile is an easy 2.8-kilometre circuit, winding around still water and shaded parkland, and comfortably completed in around 40 minutes. For something a little wilder, the Tipperary Track meanders through bushland dotted with disused goldfields and mineral springs, at its most atmospheric in autumn. Another favourite is the numerous easy grade short walks within Hepburn Regional Park, where sealed paths connect historic bathhouses, picnic spots and natural mineral springs beneath towering eucalypts.

…or by bike

biking around Jubilee Lake
Cycle on scenic trails. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Cyclists are well catered for, with the Goldfields Track stretching from Daylesford through to Bendigo, linking historic towns and landscapes shaped by the gold rush. Mountain bikers can head just outside town to tackle the full 60 kilometres of the Djuwang Baring (Creswick Trails), a purpose-built network that winds through forested terrain and culturally significant Country, offering varied trails for different skill levels.

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Indulge in sweet treats at the chocolate shops

a warm choco cup at The Daylesford Hot Chocolate Company
Find comfort in a warm cup of hot chocolate. (Credit: The Daylesford Hot Chocolate Company)

Indulge in the region’s sweetest offerings with a visit to The Daylesford Hot Chocolate Company, found inside a gorgeous white cottage in town, housing delights like jam doughnuts, brownies, and their Parisian Hot Chocolate Experience. For more indulgence, visit the Chocolate Mill in Mount Franklin to watch chocolatiers craft truffles and ice cream, then savour them in the cosy atmosphere of the Hot Chocolate Cafe.

 Have lunch at one of the region’s best restaurants

pouring wine into a glass at Sault Estate
Wine and dine in an elegant setting overlooking a vineyard. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Daylesford’s reputation as a dining destination is well-earned. The celebrated regional icon, Lake House Restaurant, champions local ingredients in an elegant lakeside setting. Sault Restaurant is where seasonal menus meet a romantic venue surrounded by flower fields. Bistro Terroir adds a touch of French sophistication to the mix, while the revived Daylesford Hotel elevates traditional pub classics with inventive and polished flair.  

Visit Daylesford Cider Company

Daylesford Cider tasting paddle
Order a cider tasting paddle to get the full experience. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Explore the craftsmanship of cider-making at Daylesford Cider Company, where traditional English techniques bring unique flavours to life. Set amid the rolling countryside, this boutique cidery invites you to enjoy tastings in a welcoming cellar door or under the open skies of their courtyard. Complement the experience with a wood-fired pizza and soak in the peaceful rural atmosphere for the perfect afternoon.

Take a farm tour or class at the Dairy Flat Farm

flower gardens at Dairy Flat Farm
The 16-hectare regenerative farm boasts idyllic gardens. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Explore the expansive 40-acre Dairy Flat Farm, where regenerative farming practices flourish across olive groves, vineyards, and vibrant gardens, supporting the Lake House Restaurant and Wombat Hill House cafe. Gain new skills through an Introduction to Beekeeping class, covering hive care and honey production, or embrace the art of sourdough baking with expert guidance.

Explore the surrounding historic towns

High Street, Trentham
Daylesford has long been a hidden treasure trove of charming towns. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Venture beyond Daylesford to uncover the character-filled towns of the region. A visit to Trentham charms with its quaint main street lined with boutique stores and cosy cafes. Meanwhile, gold-rush gems like Maldon and Castlemaine captivate with their well-preserved historic buildings, vibrant arts scenes, and antique havens. Meander through laneways, visit galleries, and discover the rich heritage woven into each town.

Pauline Morrissey

Pauline Morrissey

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7 reasons to book a long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula

(Image: Supplied)

    Jade Raykovski Jade Raykovski
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    A place of spectacular coastlines and rolling vineyards, the Mornington Peninsula is just an hour from Melbourne, yet feels like a world away.  

    Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is often voted the number one short stay in Australia, and for good reason. From its beautiful coastline and scenic trails to exceptional food and wine, it’s the perfect escape any time of year, but especially as the weather grows cooler.  

    Picture afternoons relaxing in the soul-warming hot springs. Evenings by a cosy fireplace, sipping one of the region’s renowned Pinot Noirs and tucking into a delicious meal made from local produce. Now stop imagining, and start planning; here’s why the Mornington Peninsula should be your next long weekend adventure.  

    1. It’s easy to get to 

    An aerial view of Pt. Leo Estate on the Mornington Peninsula.
    Spend a long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula. (Image: CMcConville)

    At only an hour’s drive southeast of the city, the Mornington Peninsula offers unbeatable convenience. If you’re taking the Eastlink tollway to Peninsula Link, look out for eclectic roadside artwork such as Callum Morton’s high-rise hotel (hint: you can’t check in). 

    2. The coastline is stunning

    Mount Martha Bathing Boxes
    Stay in colourful, iconic beach huts along the coast.

    The Mornington Peninsula separates Port Phillip Bay to its west and Western Port Bay to its east, making it the only place in Victoria you can see a sunrise over one bay and sunset over another. 

    Its spectacular coastline varies from sandy swimming and surf beaches to dramatic rocky cliffs. Mt Martha Beach, known for its colourful beach huts and calm clear waters, was named in Tourism Australia’s Top 10 beaches for 2026. Nearby, Arthurs Seat Eagle offers gondola rides to the peninsula’s highest point, where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas. 

    For a different perspective from the water, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience swimming with the bay’s resident dolphins, or catch a ride with Searoad Ferries from Sorrento to Queenscliff (the tip of the opposite Bellarine Peninsula). Pop into their new Sorrento terminal for sweeping views from its floor-to-ceiling windows and a bite to eat at Mediterranean restaurant ONDA. 

    3. Taste exceptional food and wine

    Crittenden restaurant mornington peninsula
    Treat yourself to the restaurant at Crittenden.

    While the Mornington Peninsula is now synonymous with cool climate wines like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it was originally renowned for apple production. There are many orchards still in operation, like fifth-generation Mock Red Apple; taste craft ciders (the Mulled Spiced Cider is a must in winter), and don’t miss the famous apple pie. 

    Of course, it would almost be a sin not to dine at a winery restaurant, or at least try a local wine. Stop at Foxey’s Hangout for casual share plates and a glass of Chardonnay on the deck; or for a more formal affair, the light-filled restaurant at Paringa Estate offers a fine dining set menu on weekends, with picturesque estate views. 

    Pt. Leo Estate has no less than three separate dining experiences to choose from, ranging from a wine terrace to contemporary fine dining, all sourcing seasonal Victorian and local Mornington Peninsula produce, and offering stunning vistas over Western Port Bay.  

    And opened in 2025, the restaurant at Crittenden celebrates regional produce with a modern Australian menu that pairs beautifully with their sustainably crafted estate wines.

    4. Plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors

    A quiet moment on the green as he prepares for the perfect swing.
    Tee off at world-class golf courses with stunning coastal views.

    Bring your hiking boots, because from beachside strolls to breathtaking cliffside walks, the Mornington Peninsula boasts incredible scenic trails for all fitness levels.

    The Red Hill Rail Trail follows the old railway line between Merricks and Red Hill, while the Bushrangers Bay Walking Track is the go-to trail for rugged coastal scenery, linking Cape Schanck and the Boneo Road picnic area (part of the longer Two Bays Trail). 

    The region is also home to several national parks providing plenty of opportunities to connect with nature, whether it’s a walk, picnic, or simply admiring the local flora and fauna. Golf lovers will rejoice with gorgeous courses such as the world-class Moonah Links or Flinders Golf Club, one of Victoria’s oldest golf courses.

    5. Lean into wellness and relaxation

    From an aerial view, a woman drifts peacefully across still, crystal-clear water.
    Unwind in mineral-rich hot springs and soak in total relaxation.

    Soaking in one of the Mornington Peninsula’s mineral-rich hot springs is a must in the cooler months. Alba Thermal Springs and Spa is the newer addition, with 25 contemporary geothermal pools, a sauna and steam room set amongst elegant coastal landscaping. Book a Night Owl session to watch the sunset from the pools, and extend your visit with a spa treatment or dining at their restaurant.  

    Across the road, the Peninsula Hot Springs offers two main bathing areas, cafes and a spa in a natural bush setting. The Bath House comprises over 70 bathing and wellness experiences, including their iconic Hilltop Pool, a reflexology walk, and Nepalese mineral showers; while the Spa Dreaming Centre is a serene adults-only sanctuary.  

    6. Get a culture fix

    Visit the Southern Hemisphere’s largest privately owned sculpture park at Pt. Leo Estate during long weekend on the Mornington Peninsula.
    Discover inspiring art across galleries and sculpture parks. (Image: Chris Conville)

    Wander the Southern Hemisphere’s largest privately owned sculpture park at Pt. Leo Estate, glass of red in hand, or pop into the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery to view one of their seasonal exhibitions. Seawinds Garden is also home to a sculpture collection by William Ricketts, surrounded by exotic and indigenous gardens.  

    If you’re more of a history buff, book a tour of the Cape Schanck Lighthouse, or spend an afternoon at Point Nepean National Park. Here, you can explore walking trails through the traditional country of the Bunurong people, learn the history of the old Quarantine Station and discover military forts and tunnels. 

    7. Gorgeous accommodations

    Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
    Check into Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill.

    The Mornington Peninsula’s standout accommodations are an experience in themselves. Escape to The Sanctuary at Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, a luxe retreat perched in the dunes above the springs. Or indulge in the dramatic luxury of Jackalope Hotel, home to a vine-facing pool and spa and the chef-hatted Doot Doot Doot. 

    For a dose of European country charm, stay at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill, set amongst lush gardens and vines with a cellar door and chef-hatted restaurant. Or for more contemporary, yet still charming, surroundings, the InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula is a historic hotel reimagined as a luxe coastal stay with European flair, including a pool deck and on-site bathhouse. 

    Start planning your long weekend at visitmorningtonpeninsula.org