It already feels as though 2025 is rushing by.
With work back in full swing and school going back, the calendar is quickly filling with kids’ sports, after school activities, birthday parties, work functions… the list goes on.
It’s easy to get caught up in all the rush and forget to make some time for yourself – some peaceful, mindful time, away from the constant noise.
We’ve therefore pulled together a list of ‘quiet’ places. Places that are away from the crowds. Places for quiet contemplation. Places that will leave you feeling refreshed and restored.
Enjoy quiet Sanctuary Bathing at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Unwind and relax in a whole new way at Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa in Hepburn Springs by taking advantage of their Quiet Sanctuary Bathing. This adult-only experience has been crafted to soothe your senses and invite deep relaxation, providing a serene, technology and chat-free environment for you to soak and rejuvenate. Available every Friday and Saturday night from 6pm-9pm.
Follow the Murmuring Walk at Sanatorium Lake
Nestled atop Mount Macedon is the picture-perfect Sanatorium Lake. Quieten your mind by following the Murmuring Walk. This free audio guided walk reflects captures the environment, birdlife and natural rhythms of the lake. Download the audio guide here, then enter a contemplative space with a sublime multi-layered vocal and poetic soundtrack. This self-paced walk is entirely free and available to enjoy at any time.
Find your inner peace at Samadhi Retreat
The luxurious Samadhi Retreat in Glenlyon is specifically designed for those wanting to unwind and reconnect with themselves in a serene environment. Offering personalised wellness programs, spa treatments, and meditation sessions, this tranquil and welcoming retreat is a sanctuary for the mind, body, and spirit. One of Samadhi’s newest offerings is an ‘Inner Peace Retreat’, which includes gentle practices to help calm the mind, still emotions and provide clarity and insight – the pathways to becoming more at peace with yourself. Guests can choose two to five-day options, staying onsite in one of their gorgeous suites.
Experience equine therapy at Heart of the Horse
Heart of the Horse, near Malmsbury, offers equine therapy experiences ranging from a one-day retreat to multi-day experiences. Here, owner Rachael tailors each experience, 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.
Discover the La Gerche Forest Walk
The towering, century old trees found on the La Gerche Forest Walk instill a deep sense of quiet and reflection. This serene, 2.2km self-guided loop winds through the historic nursery plantations found around Creswick. The walk honours John La Gerche, Creswick’s pioneering forest bailiff, whose dedication to forestry shaped the landscape you see today.
Explore an art gallery or artist studio
Our region is home to a seemingly endless collection of galleries and artists’ studios. Take a moment to explore these creative spaces, chatting to local artists and being inspired by their creative genius along the way. Top options include The Convent Daylesford, Radius Art, Cascade Art Gallery, Little Gallery, Bullarto Gallery, The Old Auction House and Stockroom Kyneton. For further inspiration, check out our 2-day art itinerary here.
Hike the summit at Hanging Rock Reserve
Visit Hanging Rock mid-week and you could find you have the summit walk to yourself. It’s hard not to feel the magic of this incredible site, which has been a place of great significance to Indigenous groups for millennia, located near the traditional boundary between three Aboriginal tribal groups – the Woi Wurrung (Wurundjeri), the Dja Dja Wurrung and the Taungurung. As you reach the summit, take some time (and care) exploring the rocky outcrops and admire the stunning 360° views.
Join a meditation session at Daylesford Healing Massage
Quieten your mind and direct your awareness within, with a meditation session at Daylesford Healing Massage, where the focus of each session is on relaxation and mindfulness. These sessions take place weekly on Thursday at 10am and attendance is by donation. Afterwards, further nourish the soul with an Aromatherapy Healing Massage.
Walk, swim or paddle at Jubilee Lake
Many people don’t realise Daylesford is home to a second lake. Somewhat hidden off the regular tourist trail, Jubilee Lake is a beautiful location, surrounded by trees, which are especially stunning in autumn. Start by following the easy circuit track, which navigates 1.6km around the lake. Then (weather permitting) relax by the beach area where you will be joined by the resident peacocks. Then take a dip or enjoy a spot of kayaking or paddleboarding – bring your own or hire a paddle boat from the kiosk.
Slow down in Malmsbury
The village of Malmsbury is a peaceful little town, where it feels like time has stood still. Start with a stroll through the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens, the oldest botanical gardens in Victoria, then gaze in wonder at the heritage-listed Malmsbury Viaduct. Built between 1858 and 1861 and still in operation today, this bluestone bridge was one of the longest stone bridges in the country when it was completed. Grab some lunch at the Malmsbury Bakery before checking out the towns thriving vintage and collectibles scene, making sure you pop into Madam Vintage and Rathdowne Antiques.
Leave the kids behind and stay at The Dudley Hotel
For those looking for a well-deserved, kid-free night away, The Dudley Boutique Hotel in Hepburn Springs is the ultimate choice. This luxurious, adults-only retreat offers a meticulously curated and peaceful guest experience, with nature at your doorstep.
Book yourself a secluded cabin retreat
When it comes to secluded accommodation, there are some amazing options in our region. Honey Hill in Glenlyon is an amazing off-grid option, surrounded by nature, while Bainbridge House is a gorgeous property, meticulously fitted out and designed by a family of furniture makers within an Australian bush setting (both are managed by Daylesford Country Retreats). Little Hampton Farm is another idyllic escape, nestled within Wombat State Forest. On the Macedon Ranges side, Fellcroft Farmstay offers two luxurious cottages within a working farm.
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