With an abundance of sunlight, the flourish of lavender, and the melodic hum of cicadas, we know summer has arrived in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges.

With summer comes the brightening of moods and the quenching of thirsts. Here, you’ll find some of the best beer gardens and alfresco venues to enjoy a sun-drenched afternoon’s conviviality.

Did you know, the humble beer garden – like all great things – developed organically? Rooted to 16th century Bavaria, various safety restrictions led to the brewing of beer in the cooler months, which in turn led to purer beer and ultimately the planting of chestnut trees to provide shade for subterranean cellars. Naturally, this shade provided idyllic spaces for tables and chairs – the birth of the beer garden.

The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Trentham is drenched in history and could be mistaken for a private Bavarian garden, as you sip your beer and enjoy a fine meal under the canopy of the 100-year-old elms. An amazing place to unwind and indulge. At a spritely 165 years young, the Red Hill Hotel in Chewton is a charismatic pub with a wonderful beer garden. Live music and good vibes are a constant. The Farmers Arms, Daylesford is quite possibly my favourite country pub for impeccable food and quality local plonk. The courtyard is fully enclosed and a neat spot to spend an afternoon sipping ales and vino by the fountain.

Red Hill Hotel

Mount Macedon Winery

A community-driven, social enterprise, the Social Foundry in Kyneton offers a large urban garden with delicious casual food and local drinks. In summer they’ll offer barbeques and live music. Enjoy a locally made Mountain Gin and tonic and know that every dollar goes to a wonderful cause.

Mount Macedon Winery welcomes visitors with friendly, furry locals in the form of Highland cattle and Black Suffolk sheep, and of course Gus the Golden Retriever. Wine and dine on the deck or grab a rug, bottle of wine and a charcuterie box for a picnic on the lawns.

Family and dog-friendly Daylesford Cider Co. is set amongst wonderful gardens and crafts delicious traditional ciders. In summer, the uber-cool cider van will operate from the lawn, and the place will be buzzing with live entertainment.

So, grab your favourite sun hat and get that car packed for a weekender; it’s time to get reacquainted with the beer gardens of Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. Good company, great food and drink, and a healthy dose of nature awaits.