Eat

Dining out with your children does not mean you need to skimp on quality. There are many amazing wineries, restaurants and cafes, where the adults can enjoy an exquisite tipple or meal, and the kids are catered for too. 3 Little Pigs in the heart of Gisborne has a healthy and wide range of delicious food for the whole family, as well as excellent coffee. Mount Towrong Winery in Macedon boasts plenty of space for the kids to play and celebrates local wines for the adults to try. If you head further north, Major Tom’s in Kyneton is a family friendly burger joint with an eclectic vibe, stellar beer and cider menu, and a beer garden under St Paul’s Park’s trees. Just out of Woodend, Hanging Rock Cafe offers everything for families in the one place: outstanding food, a stunning natural landmark and extensive grounds with play equipment.

Play

The Ranges has a variety of exceptional playgrounds that will impress the young and young at heart. Romsey Ecotherapy Park is a sensory playground made from natural materials with an extensive ropes course. It will delight children of all ages. Kyneton Community Park backs onto the beautiful Kyneton Botanic Gardens and is an experience in itself. With a water play area in the summer months, a table tennis table and bright tractors, the park is a wonderful place to spend a few hours. Taradale Mineral Springs Playground and Woodend Children’s Park are both nestled beside a creek and have a wide range of equipment. Both also have an expanse of shady, grassy spots to picnic.

Explore

The Ranges boasts many beautiful walking tracks, the majority of which are family friendly.  Head to Conglomerate Gully Walking Track in Riddells Creek for an adventure through sheltered scrub. Stanley Park Waterfall in Macedon is a lovely, quick walk for littlies with a playground nearby, and the Black Hill Reserve Circuit and Ridge Tracks in Kyneton offer breathtaking views and more of a challenge for older children. For families who love to ride or try their hand at yabbying, Firth Park in the Wombat State Forest is ideal to disconnect from your busy lives and soak up the serenity of a quiet spot.

These just scrape the surface of activities to enjoy this summer in the Macedon Ranges. Plan a day to eat, play and explore, and support exceptional local businesses in your travels.

Main image: Kyneton Community Park