Located on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, it’s a destination for those who love seasonal change. There can be snow in winter, leaves of red and gold in autumn, and spectacular rhododendrons that bloom in spring and early summer.

Just over an hour from Melbourne, you’ll instantly feel the pace slow down as you enter this peaceful village, where you will be greeted warmly by the friendly locals. And the best bit? Almost all of Trentham’s attractions are located within easy walking distance of each other.

Fine dining, fresh produce and welcoming country pubs

Trentham is a tiny town full of flavour and fresh produce. From a chef-hatted restaurant, to elevated pub-fare and cosy cafés, there is a gourmet treat for all tastes.

You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into chef Annie Smithers’ own home as you feast on her French farmhouse-style cooking at du Fermier. At this cosy, chef-hatted restaurant, Annie crafts a seasonal menu each week, using locally sourced produce, including from her own farm and kitchen garden, Babbington Park, in nearby Lyonville.

When it comes to quality pub fare, you are spoiled for choice, with three excellent options to choose from. The iconic Cosmopolitan Hotel is famous for its seasonal dishes, wood-fired pizza and beautiful garden, which is surrounded by century-old elms. Hotel Trentham serves up pub classics with a modern twist, with the duck salad a stand-out dish.

A short drive out of town, the Pig & Whistle is a classic, ivy-wrapped country pub surrounded by paddocks. A cherished local icon, expect friendly service and delicious food, from traditional Australian pub favourites, to creative vegetarian options.

Back in town, Trentham General is the go-to spot for breakfast, serving up favourites such as a slow-cooked brisket toastie or house-made granola with local honey. For a decadent pastry or sweet treat, pop into RedBeard Bakery, or pick up a meticulously crafted chocolate creation from the newly opened Sisko Chocolate. For cocktails or wine, stop by cosy wine bar Mr Peacock.

Fancy taking some produce home with you? You can pick up local goodies from Ruby Goose Foods or Trentham Food & Wine Co.

Trentham’s rich produce is celebrated each year at The Great Trentham Spudfest (held on the first weekend in May). This wonderful community event celebrates the area’s potato heritage, with fresh produce, market stalls, live music and more.

Boutique shops and vibrant galleries

Trentham’s two main streets, High Street and Market Street, are easily walkable and feature an enticing collection of boutique shops. Drop into Frankie & Mae where the focus is on slow fashion and natural fibres, or discover a wonderful collection of designer wares at The House of Marcelle & Mr John. Pick up household goods from the sustainably focused The Green Store, or discover blown glass artworks by local artist Elizabeth Parsons at Pegasus Gallery & Gifts.

More local art can be found at The Little Gallery. Run by a collection of local artists, led by Rose Wilson and Helen Cottle, here you can chat to the artists, before finding your own Trentham artwork to take home with you.

A natural wonderland

You don’t have to venture far to enjoy the best of the natural world. Less than five-minute’s drive from town you’ll find Trentham Falls, one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in Victoria. Take in the spectacle of the 32-metre cascade over basalt columns from one of the viewing platforms.

Back in town, explore the lush Wombat State Forest by following the Domino Rail Trail. Starting at the heritage-listed Trentham Railway Station, it runs for six kilometres to Lyonville. Tackle the whole track, or simply walk a smaller section before turning back towards Trentham.

Boutique accommodation

If you want to relax for a day or two surrounded by forest and farmland, Trentham has an impressive collection of B&Bs to choose from. For a luxurious stay, you can’t go past Acre of Roses. Located within a micro-flower farm, this luxurious wellness retreat includes the stylishly refurbished 1860s Miner’s Cottage, which features an outdoor cedar tub, or The Potting Shed, a rustic studio-style space with a garden theme.

Other top picks include the luxuriously renovated Cosmopolitan Cottage, the centrally located Nancy’s of Trentham or the strikingly elegant The French House.

Whether you’re wandering its charming streets, chatting to the locals or savouring local flavours, you’ll feel right at home in this welcoming hamlet. If fact, you might not ever want to leave.