Here we take a look at what’s new around the region.

We begin in Woodend, where you can pick up a bottle of local vino, or get cosy with a cocktail in the adjoining bar at the new Woodend Cellar & Bar. For more local drops, the Gindu Tasting Room will offer tastings of their award-winning botanical gins when it opens in mid to late spring.

Across the road from Gindu on Woodend’s High Street, Rochford Supply Co. has set up shop in the old Commonwealth Bank Building. This spacious new store stocks modern country wardrobe essentials with a strong focus on 100% Australian-owned brands. A few doors down from there, Nellie’s Shed is a gorgeous nursery, garden wares and gifts space. It also stocks teas from around the world, with tea tastings on offer.

Nearby in Mount Macedon, Mount Towrong Vineyard is set to expand their opening hours this summer. Expect an extended menu from their newly revamped kitchen, which draws heavily on local produce.

Heading east to Lancefield, Cleveland Winery has undergone a major refurbishment. Surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, the property is home to 50 spacious suites, along with a six-bedroom historic homestead.

In Kyneton, the historic Albion Hotel has reopened with a menu featuring tasty pub classics. Further down Mollison Street, The Kyneton Hotel has just launched their revitalised classic pub rooms for overnight stays. A short stroll away, Sisko Chocolates have set up shop, serving artisan sweet creations.

A luxurious new accommodation offering can be found at Drummond, just outside Kyneton. Set on over 100 acres and offering stunning views, Drummond Estate is a five-bedroom, three-bathroom, modern-designed home, complete with its own plunge pool.

Moving west, The House of Marcelle & Mr John is an exciting new addition to Trentham’s ever-growing collection of boutique stores. Here you will find an eclectic mix of art, antiques, fragrances and designer goods.

Further south from there, the mountain hamlet of Blackwood is now home to artisan sourdough specialist, The Good Baker. Next door you’ll find Singleuse Multiverse, which sells gorgeous, one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces made from recycled single use plastics. Both are located within a beautifully renovated, former gold rush building, which is also home to air roasted coffee specialists, Martin Street Coffee.

In Hepburn Springs, Hepburn Escape Villas have introduced the luxurious Mineral Springs Penthouse. It features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a private steam room, lavish marble spa bath and a fully equipped chef’s kitchen, along with an expansive outdoor balcony.

Just up the road, The Surly Goat has introduced The 10th Street Steak Club, which is a monthly exploration into steaks in all their forms.

In Daylesford, Daylesford Country Retreats have added The Mayor’s Residence to their list of stunning properties. Surrounded by an acre of magnificent English gardens, this grand Victorian home was built in 1865 by George Parker, the former mayor of Daylesford.

We also have some fantastic events coming up over the warmer months. The much-loved Swiss Italian Festa makes a welcome return to Hepburn Springs over the weekend 26-29 October. This four-day event celebrates the unique and lasting contribution made by the Swiss Italians to the local area, with plenty of food, wine, music and art.

In November, the winemakers of the Macedon Ranges will open their doors as the annual Budburst wine festival takes place (17-19 November), giving visitors a fantastic opportunity to get behind the vines and meet the region’s innovative winemakers.

These are just some of the reasons to start planning a trip to Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Hero Image: Budburst Festival, Mount Monument. Photo by Kyla-Jane Rickard