Explore Creswick

RACV Goldfields Resort is an excellent base for exploring Creswick, ideal for couples, families or larger groups. Located on 150 acres of state forest, this resort has something for everyone, including a Tony Cashmore designed championship 18-hole golf course. Other amenities include a gym, outdoor heated swimming pool, restaurant, bar, mountain biking trails and games room.

If you’re visiting Creswick to hit the trails at Djuwang Baring, Creswick Holiday Park is an excellent accommodation option. Set within an attractive forested area, this holiday park features camping and cabin options, along with three new purpose-built studio ensuite rooms, designed with mountain bikers in mind.

Day 1

Djuwang Baring (Creswick Trails)
Traverse the ancient cultural lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung people by exploring the newly opened trails at Djuwang Baring. Translating to ‘long track’ in the Dja Dja Wurrung language, this site encompasses a network of 60 kilometres of mountain bike trails that start at Hammon Park and pass through the varied landscape of Creswick. This extensive network features approximately 70 trail segments, each skill-rated to ensure a tailored adventure.

After all the activity you’ll need to refuel, and there is no better place than Le Peche Gourmand. This traditional French boulangerie-patisserie in the heart of Creswick is where you can savour classic French croissants, breads, pastries and sweet treats – all of which are made fresh daily, using local, organic ingredients sourced within 100 miles whenever possible. Choose a canelé or a macaron, simply close your eyes and you will feel as though you have been transported to a café in the heart of Paris.

Cool off with a swim, or take a leisurely stroll around Calembeen Park, which boasts to two beautiful lakes surrounded by birdlife and stunning waterlily displays. Originally a site mined by Chinese settlers in the 1850s and 1860s, the park became a popular swimming spot in the early 1900s. Today, Calembeen Park is a popular go-to spot for swimming, fishing, walking, and cycling. The recently restored historic dive tower is particularly popular during the warmer months, as is the toddler pool.

Back on Creswick’s main drag, you will find the Creswick Museum within the historic Town Hall (built in 1876). The building features notable architecture, including a basalt staircase and wrought iron balcony. Wander inside and discover colonial paintings and exhibits on Creswick’s gold mining history – which includes Australia’s worst mining disaster in 1882. You can also check out works from one of Australia’s most artistic families – the Lindsay family, who were from Creswick.

Tuck into a hearty meal at Three Founders Restaurant, which is named after the Creswick brothers who founded the town in 1842. Located within the RACV Goldfields Resort, this modern, family-friendly restaurant has been inspired by the surrounding region, with a menu that features handpicked produce from Victorian suppliers. On warmer days, make the most of the outdoor terrace, which overlooks the surrounding golf course.

Day 2

Enjoy an Italian-inspired breakfast at il Bello Caffè. This cosy and inviting cafe is famous for its relaxed vibe and authentic flavours and is a go-to spot for a morning coffee. Tuck into a tasty selection of pastries, paninis, and Italian-inspired dishes.

Spend the morning exploring Creswick Regional Park, where you will discover a rich Aboriginal cultural landscape, walking trails, cycling trails, beautiful lakes and more. Must-visit spots include the La Gerche Forest Walk, showcasing over a century of reforestation efforts, and the tranquil St Georges Lake, perfect for summer picnics and birdwatching.

Take part in a unique dining experience at Black Cat Truffles, just outside Creswick. During truffle season in both summer and winter, you can forage for truffles alongside their expertly trained dogs, followed by a delicious truffle-infused degustation. Outside truffle season, they offer lunch on weekends, as well as on select Fridays.

A visit to Creswick isn’t complete without checking out the iconic Creswick Woollen Mills. Established in 1947, this Australian owned brand is renowned for producing the highest quality textiles and manufacturing of natural fibre homewares, apparel and accessories. Experience a slice of Victorian history at their original Mill, which is home to an award-winning interactive exhibition ‘A Very Fine Yarn’. The exhibit takes you through the history of the Mill, and the journey of natural fibres – from source, through the manufacturing process and onto the shop floor. Be sure to pick up your own woollen goodies from the onsite shop before leaving.

If you love art and history, make sure you explore the Creswick of the Lindsays Art Trail. This fascinating trail spans 7.6km and features 24 significant sites, including the Creswick Cemetery where seven Lindsay family members are buried. The trail highlights the Lindsay children’s connection to Creswick, with durable signs and glass panels displaying artwork by Norman Lindsay at each location. Begin your journey at the Creswick Visitor Information Centre, where you can pick up a guide and map with QR codes.

End your explorations of Creswick with dinner and a drink at Odessa at Leaver’s Hotel. This cosy wine bar is housed within Creswick’s oldest building (dating back to 1856). The historic venue has served various roles over the years, from a gold exchange bank to a beloved milk bar. Here you can enjoy live music, cocktails, local wines, craft beers, and delicious bar food.