Explore Guildford and Vaughan

From a cosy cottage for two, to a grand historic home for 12, Castlemaine Boutique Accommodation has a range of properties to suit couples, families, or small groups within a 15-minute drive of Guildford and Vaughan Springs. Options include the grand Corvah House, this six-bedroom, 1860s era home was one of the first grand homes built in Castlemaine. Alternatively, for a charming and stylish getaway, The Dairy is a dreamy retreat perfect for couples.

Day 1

Vaughan Springs

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Vaughan Springs. Known as ‘The Junction’ during the gold rush, the picturesque setting in a valley on the banks of the Loddon River, feels like a secret oasis. Laze under a tree listening to the birds; pump spring water straight from the source, cast a fishing line, cool off in the swimming hole, or go bush along one of the well-marked walking tracks to Central Springs or further afield to Glenlulce Springs. Kids will love the giant slide, and for a slice of gold rush history, don’t miss wandering around the Chinese Cemetery.

Vaughan Cemetery

In the same vicinity as Vaughan Springs, this bushland cemetery is a great spot to wander amongst the headstones set out in various sections such as Chinese, Wesleyan, Presbyterian, Episcopalian for reflection and an insight into the magnitude of gold seekers who ‘rushed’ to Central Victoria. Art installations gifted by artist Jessie Stanley in memory of her ancestors add a thought-provoking twist. Climb the steps to open the door of Portal, and gaze into the urn titled Water.

Red Knob

Three minutes along from the cemetery, you’ll come to Red Knob gold mining landscape on the left. This dramatic example of what’s locally called ‘upside down land’ is the result of hydraulic sluicing where jets of water blasted away the earth and washed it through a sluice box, trapping the gold in the sluice. Due to the environmental impact this method was stopped in many places during the gold rush, and scenes such as Red Knob act as part of an historical record of the land. The best views are from the side of the road, and the valley is filled with poplar trees that create a sea of yellow during early autumn.

Guildford Family Hotel

For dinner, make your way to Guildford. At the height of the gold rush Guildford was home to 22 hotels. Now there is only one. But what a beauty it is. Locally owned and operated, the Guilford Family Hotel (circa 1855) oozes the atmosphere of yesteryear with the mod cons of fine food, wine and craft beers. Mingle with locals in the straight-out-of-a-movie front bar; cosy up by the fire in the main dining room or if travelling in summer, enjoy sundowners in the beer garden. The fare is hearty with dishes such as slow cooked pork belly sitting alongside classic parmas and beer battered fish and chips. Hot tip: if a roast is on the specials list, get your order in fast.

Day 2

Guildford Lookout

Morning is a great time to take in the view over the ancient landscape. Nestled into the valley Guildford is at the edge of what was once volcanic country and the stone platform is on the remains of lava flow. The plaque marks landmarks and distances. Look for Mount Franklin (Lalgambook) a well-defined extinct volcano and towering Mount Tarrangower (Tarrangower) in the distance.

Guildford General Store

Breakfast (or brunch) like a local at the iconic Guildford General Store. Snag a spot on the veranda or perch inside surrounded by white washed shelves curated with retro signs, kitchenalia and vintage collectibles. The homely menu includes hearty fare like creamy porridge with seasonal poached fruit, eggs benny done to perfection, or pulled pork burger with all the trimmings.

Ron Barassi Statue

A few steps across the road from the store, you’ll find a bust of AFL football legend, Ronald (Ron) Barassi AM atop a Castlemaine stone base at the edge of the recreation reserve. Unveiled in 2016 to celebrate Barassi’s 80th birthday the statue is a tribute to the great man who spent several years as a young boy living on his grandfather’s farm on Shicer Gully Road and attended Guildford Primary School. Pack a footy (especially if you’re travelling with kids), and have a kick on the oval in honour of one of the legends of Australian sport.

The Big Tree

Right near the recreation reserve, you can’t miss Central Victoria’s answer to Queensland’s ‘big’ icons. Standing tall at around 26 metres with a girth of approximately 13 metres, this Eucalyptus camaldulensis, more commonly known as a river red gum, is listed on the National Trust’s Register of Significant Trees of Victoria as an outstanding example of the species. Although the exact age of the tree is unknown, it holds stories of the traditional owners of the land, the Jaara Jaara people who called the area Yarrayne. The tree was already a giant when Major Mitchell passed through here in 1836, and named the town after Guildford in Surrey, England.

Guildford Garden Gate

Wander through the garden gate for inspiration, and a bit of retail therapy. Grown from seed, the plants here are well priced and the fairy-tale garden shed is chocked with unique garden ornaments and knick knacks, many made on site. You can also pick up a free coffee, tea, water or hot chocolate and cookies.

Guildford Vineyard

Finish off with a long lunch at Guildford Vineyard. Only open on weekends and limited to 30 guests seated under a pergola; this rustic bush restaurant offers sublime food and wine, paired with stunning vineyard views. Allow time to savour every bite of the four-course degustation featuring locally sourced produce and hear the inspiration behind the marriage of flavours as chef Zack Grumont introduces each dish. The biodynamic wines are as fascinating as the food – micro batch made by winemakers who are invited in to craft wine from the grape varieties grown in the vineyard.

You’ll need to plan well ahead to snag a seat. You won’t find it advertised or plastered over social media – it’s one of those rare word of mouth treasures.