There's no doubt that 2020 has changed how we regard - and interact with - the world around us.

As we move forward towards ‘COVID Normal’, it’s no surprise that people are feeling a little introspective and longing to reconnect and once again enjoy healthy, mindful, activities in the great outdoors. So, we’ve put together a list of scenic, sensory, soul-food experiences designed to give you the country escape you’ve been longing for.

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Trentham Falls. Photo: Visit Victoria

Trentham Falls – One of Victoria’s longest-drop waterfalls and set among lush forests. Be sure to stop off in Trentham to grab a coffee and picnic supplies from one of the cafes and fresh-baked goods from historic RedBeard Bakery.

Turpins Falls – Situated along the Campaspe River, Turpins Falls is the result of the Campaspe River flowing over an expansive 20m-high rock wall that surrounds a deep reflective pool.

The Cascades – A hidden gem; rocky cascading water at its best in winter and spring.

Sanitorium Lake – A beautiful treed setting for a number of self-guided eco-tourism walking and horse-riding trails. Swimming is not permitted in the lake.

Natural Mineral Water – Rejuvenating natural mineral water that bubbles up from a vast underground network of aquifers is accessible at one of the many hand pumps. Gift yourself a visit to Hepburn Bathhouse, where you can soak, drink and luxuriate in these curative waters.

EARTH

Camels Hump – Like nearby Hanging Rock, Camels Hump is a rocky volcanic outcrop formed six million years ago. It is the highest peak in the Macedon Ranges and offers superb views of the surrounding countryside.

Domino Trail – A stretch of the old railway line that connects Lyonville with Trentham. The trail is an easy 6km-walk in either direction, or as a 12km return journey.

Wombat State Forest – Try a little forest bathing – slow down to walk mindfully, take in the sights, sounds and smells of nature and acknowledge the calm the forest provides. You’ll feel the stress fade away.

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Sandy McKinley & Danielle White -Consortium Botanicus

The Daylesford Macedon Flower Trail – Take a floral-inspired journey and experience the magic and therapy of paddock-grown, bee-friendly ‘slow’ flowers from some of the region’s best artisanal flower farms and roadside stalls.

So, whether it’s watching a waterfall plunge from the edge of a steep rock face or taking time out for a little forest therapy, you will be in awe of the beauty and restorative power of Mother Nature. This bucket list is guaranteed to blow away the cobwebs and provide a refreshed outlook to kick off the summer season and guide you into 2021.

Illustration by Daniella Germain

Main image: Camels Hump

About the author

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Consortium Botanicus
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Danielle White and Sandy McKinley are founding members of Consortium Botanicus - a bunch of bee-friendly flower farmers who believe collaboration sows good seeds. They grow, harvest, source, design and celebrate ethical, sustainable, beautiful botanics for the cut and edible flower markets.

Claire 1 Clair Derwort Photography
Photography by Clair Derwort
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Photographer and videographer of lovers, those they love, self love and authentic small businesses. I capture the magic often missed in everyday moments. I’m passionate about real connections and genuine relationships.

We moved here with our blended family and found a place which is not just now home; but our community, countless adventures, good wine and even better friends.