
Hepburn Springs has long been famed for its mineral water, believed to offer a myriad of health benefits.
However, Hepburn Springs offers much more than just the mineral springs that draw visitors to this charming village, located only a few minutes’ drive from the heart of Daylesford.
You’ll find the pace slows down as you wind your way into town. The areas Swiss Italian heritage and ridge-top location evoke the charm of the European Alps, and luxury accommodation sits alongside rustic miners’ cottages, while notable chefs in unassuming restaurants, boutique shops and quirky galleries add to the visitor experience. This is in addition to the many spa and wellness centres that offer a seemingly endless selection of massages and treatments.
Follow our three-day, two-night itinerary and live your best life in Hepburn Springs.
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, a site famous for its naturally occurring mineral springs. Established in the 1860s, this picturesque location preserves the region’s rich spa heritage and is home to several mineral springs, where you can sample the refreshing mineral water straight from the source. The scenic surroundings include lush gardens, picnic areas, walking trails, and historic rotundas, along with the iconic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. If time allows, follow the 45-minute (2.9km) Argyle Walk through the Wombat Forest, which departs from and returns to the car park on Mineral Springs Road.
After exploring Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, pop into the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. Established in 1895 and drawing mineral rich waters directly from the natural source, this iconic bathhouse reconnects you with an array of mineral wellness experiences. Afterwards, stop by the heritage-listed Pavilion Café (located next door to the Bathhouse) for lunch. Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa also offers a suite of accommodation options, including their popular Wellness Villas.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon drink at Hepburn Springs Brewing Co. A short drive (or walk) from Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, this family-owned and operated brewery serves up limited release craft beers and spirits. Enjoy options such as pilsner, pale ale, red ale and wheat beer or ‘Hefeweizen’, or choose from their range of gins or vodkas. All can be enjoyed within their Taproom, which boasts wonderful bush views.
Hot Deal: 15% off beer, gin & spirit paddles every weekend! Get Deal here
Dine, stay and relax at traditional Japanese guesthouse, Shizuka Ryokan. You’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to Japan as you enter this authentic and calming space. Choose to stay overnight in one of the six guestrooms, complete with futon bedding, tatami straw matting and shoji rice paper sliding screens. Enjoy a sumptuous Japanese banquet or ramen dinner at the onsite restaurant and make sure you take part in one of their traditional Japanese bathing rituals. This is a true oasis and perfect place to de-stress.
Hot Deal: FREE Japanese Bathing Ritual (worth $180). Get Deal here
Start the day with breakfast at the Virgin Kitchen at Hotel Bellinzona. Located in the heart of Hepburn Springs, this contemporary space features stylish cane armchairs, a white pebble stone courtyard and lush garden. Feast on favourites such as the decadent crispy chicken benedict or the virgin truffle, with local ingredients the hero in all dishes. The Virgin Kitchen is also open for lunch and dinner.
Golf lovers can’t miss a round of golf at Hepburn Golf. The 18-hole course is challenging without being intimidating, making it suitable for all playing abilities – plus, the resident kangaroos add a memorable audience to your game. Alternatively, a great option for beginners is their ‘Fun 5’ offer, playing just five holes, off easier tees. Finish off with a refreshment at the charming country clubhouse.
Hot Deal: 10% OFF any ‘Fun 5’, 9 or 18 Hole Golf Booking! Get Deal here
Stop for lunch at the enchanting Lavandula Farm, where you can explore 100 acres of European-style gardens, historic Swiss Italian stone buildings, and lavender fields. Enjoy history tours of the original homestead and savor Mediterranean and lavender-inspired dishes at Maria’s Trattoria, nestled at the heart of the farm. Lavandula Farm is located a short drive from Hepburn Springs in Shepherds Flat.
There’s no such thing as too many spa treatments! Treat yourself to a bathing experience, followed by a signature treatment at The Mineral Spa, located within Mineral Springs Hotel. Afterwards, dine at The Argus Dining Room, offering modern Australian cuisine, seasonal menus, and boutique wines from local, family-owned vineyards. You can also opt to stay overnight at this beautifully transformed 1930s hotel, where heritage charm blends seamlessly with modern luxury. For a truly special stay, check out Villa Parma; a beautiful example of Swiss Italian architecture suited to small groups.
Hot Deal: Summer Escape: Stay, Spa, Sip with VIP perks. Get deal here
Agreat dinner choice is The Surly Goat. Tucked down a side street in an unassuming weatherboard building, this welcoming, chef-hatted restaurant offers a daily changing four-course prix fixe menu. Here the focus is on seasonal and sustainable ingredients, sourced from local small-scale regenerative producers. The wine and beverage selection also leans towards small-scale, regenerative, and local options.
The Hepburn Springs General Store has been a cornerstone of the Hepburn Springs community since it first opened in the late 19th century. Housed in a charming heritage building, the store retains much of its historical character, serving as a one-stop shop for both locals and visitors. Pick up a tasty breakfast wrap or roll, accompanied by a freshly made coffee. Before leaving, peruse the curated collection of homewares, fashion, and gifts.
Get your shopping fix at Portal 108. Nestled in the heart of Hepburn Springs, this boutique gem showcases a carefully curated selection of Australia’s top women’s clothing and footwear brands, alongside unique handbags, accessories, designer pet gear, and artisan ceramic homewares from boutique labels. With its fun, laid-back vibe, Portal 108 delivers a shopping experience that is stylish, approachable, and full of personality.
A short five-minute drive north of Hepburn Springs, you can satisfy all of your chocolate cravings at The Chocolate Mill. Located with a straw-bale building and surrounded by forest, you can watch as they hand crafted chocolates using fair-trade Belgian Couverture chocolate, using traditional European techniques. Sip on a warming hot chocolate in the cafè or opt for an ice-cream sundae on warmer days. Arriving by foot or bike is another popular option, hikers or bikers can choose to follow the Dry Diggings Track from Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve to The Chocolate Mill (allow time for the relatively easy 11.5km return journey).
Oozing heritage charm, The Dudley is a fantastic accommodation option for those who are seeking a serene getaway with all the added luxuries. This adults-only retreat, nestled on the edge of the forest, features ultra-comfy beds, a lavish breakfast and a personalised concierge service. With just six rooms, this boutique hotel embraces intimacy and delivers luxury on a grand scale.
Hot Deal: FREE Lavish Breakfast. Get deal here
Hepburn Springs Motor Inn is the ideal choice for those looking for an affordable option, without sacrificing quality. Embracing the motto ‘cruise into comfort,’ this centrally located motel promises a blend of modern convenience, warm hospitality and unrivalled location. A variety of room options are available, including a king spa room, family room and accessible room.