The Convent, Daylesford

This is a Daylesford institution, described as ‘the most beautiful art gallery in Australia’. The grand 19th century building was – as the name suggests – a convent for almost 90 years and now houses a rich and diverse collection of art, over four floors and seven spaces. There is also a museum, gift shop, café and bar, as well as function rooms. Perched atop Wombat Hill, it is surrounded by the most beautiful gardens. Don’t miss this gem.
7 Daly Street, Daylesford

The Old Auction House, Kyneton

This captivating space in the heart of Kyneton, housed within a building which dates back to the 1880’s, is filled with works by emerging (and established) artists. It is the sort of place that compels you to buy a lovely and affordable piece for your home, or gift for a loved one. As well as the array of excellent art housed in the gallery, there are many classes and workshops to choose from (must be booked in advance), a gift shop and art and craft supplies.
52-56 Mollison Street, Kyneton

Cavaletti Gallery, Kyneton

Cavaletti Gallery is a retail therapy wonder, also based in Kyneton. If you want to shop ethical, this is your spot, with a range of slow fashion clothing and slow living items for your home, such as interiors, soaps and scents, towels, bedding and more. There’s a very much on-trend nod to Japanese items, where owner Leanne Coates designs, cuts and makes a contemporary women’s clothing and homewares range on site, working with traditional and modern Japanese fabrics – you’ll be the envy of all your friends when you take a piece home with you.
37A Piper Street, Kyneton

Outdoorsy

Hepburn Golf Course, Hepburn

Just five minutes from Daylesford, this is one of the country’s great country golf courses. The 18-hole course is challenging without being intimidating, making it suitable for all playing abilities. And the views are just divine, just try not to hit a kangaroo when teeing off. And do avail yourself of a refreshment at the ‘19th hole’ aka clubhouse. A great option for beginners is their ‘Fun 5’ offer, playing just five holes, off easier tees.
36 Golf Links Road, Hepburn

Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve

Fun fact: 80% of Australia’s natural mineral water sits beneath the fertile soil of our little region. There are many sites around the area where you can pump your own water from way beneath the ground, and this is probably the best spot to do it. This Reserve was created in 1865 and is home to the historic Hepburn Bathhouse and Pavillion. There is a great playground and BBQ facilities (making it perfect for families), along with a range of springs and hand pumps…consider taking the 45-minute round trip walk through the bush to Argyle Spring. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear as it’s very much a ‘bush track’.
Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs

Sanatorium Lake, Mount Macedon

In the magical forest of Macedon Regional Park you’ll find a true ‘hidden gem’ called Sanatorium Lake. An eco-tourism walking trail takes you to an information shelter near the lake and picnic areas. The walk is about 2.5km and you feel a million miles from the rest of the world as you explore. We highly recommend downloading the Murmuring Walk, an audio-guided description of what is around you with a multi-layered experience including music and interpretative information.
Lions Head Road, Mount Macedon

Treat yourself

Harcourt Produce and General Store, Harcourt

Just north of the hipster-ville town Castlemaine, is the tiny but wonderful village of Harcourt. One of the highlights of this town is Harcourt Produce & General Store, a café with local wine and craft beer, as well as Harcourt cider (made from the town’s renowned apples). Excellent coffee, as well as produce and preserves from their own garden fill the shelves and hampers are available. It’s also very close to the epic Mountain Bike park La Laar Bagauwa for the thrill-seekers amongst you.
115 Harmony Way, Harcourt

The Daylesford Hot Chocolate Company

You haven’t had proper hot chocolate until you visit this Daylesford favourite. This cute and cozy establishment is in a beautiful part of Daylesford and is equally popular in winter and summer. While we strongly recommend drinking ‘in house’ you can also order delectable goodies online for an at home choccy extravaganza.
22 Raglan Street, Daylesford

Hepburn Springs Brewing Co.

If you like beer, this is a ‘must-visit’ on a trip to our region. Their beers have won swags of awards, with mainstays including their pilsner, pale ale, red ale and wheat beer or ‘Hefeweizen’. There are many others on the menu, which is, at last count, 19 beers strong! They also produce a wonderful ranges of gins and vodkas and their deck is the most perfect place to relax with a drink and nibbles. It’s also the perfect drop in spot after visiting the aforementioned Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve.
12 Forest Avenue, Hepburn Springs

Wellbeing

Heart of the Horse

Equine therapy might not be as well-known as some other forms of wellbeing treatments, but it works. Heart of the Horse, near Malmsbury, offers experiences ranging from a one-day retreat to multi-day experiences, for both individuals and groups. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly border collies and owner Rachael, before meeting the horses. Rachael tailors the experience to you and the offering is unique in Australia. The nature and temperament of the horses bestows on visitors a deep sense of calm. It sounds unusual…but it is proven to be highly therapeutic and deeply beneficial. Bookings are essential.
275 Zig Zag Road, Drummond North

Hero Image: Jubilee Lake Daylesford, photo by Visit Vic Global Safari.