Daylesford & the Macedon Ranges: Walks, Wineries & Wellness
There are plenty of things to do around Daylesford, making it the perfect countryside escape just over an hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne. Famous for its natural beauty, therapeutic mineral springs, and wellness offerings, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are ideal for those looking to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re visiting the renowned spas in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, exploring scenic hiking trails, or discovering local art and cuisine, the region offers something for every kind of traveller.
Indulge in luxurious spa treatments and soak in the healing mineral springs, or explore the region’s tranquil gardens and serene lakeshores. Daylesford is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries showcasing the work of local and regional artists. In the Macedon Ranges, historic towns like Kyneton and Woodend offer charming streets lined with boutique shops, gourmet eateries, and cozy cafés. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking through lush forests and discovering hidden waterfalls to taking scenic drives along winding country roads.
The region’s towns and villages have a welcoming atmosphere. Friendly locals greet visitors with picturesque streetscapes and a strong sense of community. Whether seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventure, or peaceful retreat, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are the perfect escape.
Things to do around Daylesford: Wellness & Pampering
- Take a pottery class at Clayfire Gallery in Kyneton or Ballarat Pottery Studio
- Attend a yoga retreat at one of the region’s wellness retreat
- Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa offers historic mineral spa experiences, massages, and wellness treatments.
- Salus Spa at Lake House offers luxurious treatments in a tranquil lakeside setting.
- Endota Spa Daylesford provides massages, facials, and body treatments using organic products.
- Ellenis Day Spa offers luxurious spa retreats with massages, facials, and body scrubs.
- Soma Massage & Wellness promotes relaxation and rejuvenation through therapeutic massages and holistic wellness.
Things to do around Daylesford: Explore & Discover
- Soar above the Macedon Ranges on a scenic hot air balloon ride
- Visit Hanging Rock, a unique geological formation made famous by Joan Lindsay’s novel ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’.
- Learn about the geological history of Hanging Rock at the Hanging Rock Discovery Centre
- Take a scenic drive along the Macedon Ranges Wine Trail, stopping at cellar doors to sample the best local wines.
- Hike to the summit of Mount Macedon for panoramic views.
- Hike the Macedon Ranges Walking Tracks, winding through lush forests, past waterfalls, and creeks.
- Stroll through Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
- Roam the scenic gardens of The Convent Gallery in Daylesford, with art exhibitions and sculptures
- Take a relaxing walk around Lake Daylesford or just sit with a picnic and admire the view.
- Learn about the region’s indigenous history at the Djadjawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Cultural Centre, where traditional customs and storytelling come alive.
- Ride along the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve Trail, stopping to relax in the rejuvenating healing mineral waters.
- Visit Daylesford Museum: showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the area’s past.
- Daylesford Macedon Produce Farm: meet local farmers and learn sustainable practices.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Daylesford, with galleries showcasing works by local and national artists.
- Daylesford Town Hall, a venue for live music, theatre, and community events
Explore Trentham & Surrounds
- Trentham Falls: See Victoria’s highest single-drop waterfall, and immerse yourself in its natural beauty.
- Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm:a picturesque lavender haven with fields of fragrant blooms.
- Discover the vibrant arts scene in Trentham, known for its lively streetscape, boutique shops, and artistic flair.
- Enjoy a performance at the historic Kyneton Town Hall, where you can experience live music, theater, and cultural events.
- Take a guided tour of the Kyneton Botanic Gardens, established in 1858, featuring rare and exotic plants.
- Wander through the charming town of Woodend, with its heritage buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafes.
Discover Historic Gold Rush Towns
- Explore the historic streets of Clunes, a charming gold rush town with well-preserved heritage buildings and antique shops.
- Discover the history of the Castlemaine Market Building, built in 1862, now housing boutique shops and eateries.
- Visit Castlemaine’s historic railway station, where you can explore the region’s railway history and take a steam train ride.
- Explore Maldon, a charming gold mining town with well-preserved heritage buildings and a welcoming country atmosphere.
Nature Walks and Outdoor Adventures
- Embark on a nature walk in Wombat Forest, home to diverse flora and fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, and native birds.
- Trek the rugged Lerderderg State Park, home to dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and ancient rock formations.
Learn and Create
- Attend a workshop at the Fibre Arts Australia Retreat, where you can learn new techniques in textile arts and crafts.
Things to do around Daylesford: Good Eats
Local flavours and Notable Cafes
- Sault Restaurant Daylesford – Offers fine dining with stunning views overlooking a lavender field
- Lake House Restaurant – A renowned restaurant in Daylesford known for its innovative seasonal menu and beautiful lakeside setting. The 9 course tasting menu with wine is very popular.
- Hogget Kitchen – A farm-to-table restaurant in the Macedon Ranges, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce
- The Convent Gallery Cafe – Located in Daylesford, this cafe offers delicious food in a historic setting.
- Cliffy’s Emporium – A charming cafe in Daylesford serving gourmet breakfast and lunch dishes made from local ingredients
- Wombat Hill House Cafe – Located in Daylesford’s Botanic Gardens, this cafe offers a relaxed setting with outdoor seating and panoramic views
- The Surly Goat – A modern cafe in Hepburn Springs serving specialty coffee, homemade cakes, and hearty brunch options
- Monsieur Pierre – A French-inspired bistro in Kyneton known for its rustic ambiance and delicious cuisine
- Kuzu Izakaya – A Japanese-inspired restaurant in Daylesford offering an extensive menu of sushi, sashimi, and izakaya-style dishes.
- Indulge in an excellent coffee and day time eats at The Larder and head to Lake Daylesford for a scenic lakeside feast
Things to do around Daylesford: Foodies
Gourmet Flavours and Providores
- Join a cooking class or demonstration at the iconic Lake House Cooking School, where you can learn to create delicious dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
- Daylesford Sunday Market: Savour the flavours of the region.
- Visit the Daylesford Meat Co: Selling high-quality meats
- Winespeake Cellar & Deli: Pick up artisanal goodies
- Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese, where you can discover the art of cheese-making and taste artisanal cheeses
- Chocolate Mill, a must-visit for chocolate lovers to sample decadent chocolates and sweet treats
- Visit a winery – Hanging Rock Winery, the historic Glenlyon Estate Winery, Paramoor, Gisborne Peak Winery, Mount Macedon Winery, Kyneton Ridge Winery, Curly Flat Winery, Cope Williams, Musk Lane, Hunter Gatherer Winery and more.
- Daylesford Farmers Market: Buy fresh produce, artisanal foods, and locally made products.
- Macedon Ranges Wine and Food Festival (Nov). Sample the region’s best wines, gourmet foods, and culinary delights.
Things to do around Daylesford: Retail Escapes
Fashion & Clothing Boutiques
- Ecasa at Daylesford– A curated collection of fashion, homewares, and gifts sourced from local and international designers.
- Manteau Noir – A boutique in Daylesford specialising in stylish clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products for men and women
- Frock Me Out– selling clothing, jewellery, and accessories for women.
- Hope & Co. – A Kyneton boutique with a range of clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products for men and women.
- Palm & Pine – A boutique in Trentham offering a range of clothing, accessories, and gifts inspired by nature and coastal living.
Things to do around Daylesford: Homewares, Art & Lifestyle Stores
- Minimax Daylesford – A homewares store in Daylesford offering stylish and practical kitchenware, gadgets, and accessories.
- Haven & Space – A lifestyle store in Woodend offering a curated selection of homewares, gifts, and accessories for modern living.
- Mookah Studio – A lifestyle store in Daylesford offering a curated collection of fashion, homewares, and gifts from independent designers and makers.
- Rustic Simplicity – Located in Alexandra (Macedon), this boutique offers a range of homewares, gifts, and décor items with a rustic and natural aesthetic.
- The Convent Gallery– Located in Daylesford, this gallery showcases a diverse range of artwork, ceramics, and artisanal products from local and regional artists.
- Stoney Creek Gallery – offers a warm and welcoming space. It features original paintings by resident artist Michael Parker, inspired by the Australian landscape. You’ll also find a stunning collection of ceramics, blown glass, timber works, jewellery, and sculptures by local Australian artists.
Specialty Shops & Souvenirs
- Creswick Woollen Mills – Australia’s oldest and largest operating woollen mill. Visit to shop for quality woollen garments and other products – unique gifts, and souvenirs.
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