Daylesford
Daylesford is a village in the heart of Victoria's spa country. A stone's throw from Melbourne, it has long been Australia's premier spa and rejuvenation centre.
Daylesford reflects the character of its Victorian-era heritage, when people travelled to ‘take the waters’ of the mineral springs and spas.
Early Swiss-Italian and other immigrants who settled here during and after the region’s gold rush greatly influenced the gardens and architecture, bestowing upon the town a European feel.
Today, visitors come to sample the rejuvenating mineral waters, stay in luxury accommodation, explore craft and antique shops, go boating on the lake, or just relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the fine dining.
Quick facts
- Population approximately 3,000
- 108 kilometres north-west of Melbourne
- Mineral springs.
Activities and attractions
- Enjoy a cool summer retreat to the local botanic gardens, offering a panoramic view over Daylesford from the top of Wombat Hill
- Purchase high-quality local craft on display at the award-winning Convent Gallery
- Sink to the bottom of a spa bath with a blend of relaxing essential oils at one of the many quality day spas and natural therapy centres. There are over 50 different natural therapies available in the area.
- Take the Tipperary Walking Track and explore Hepburn Regional Park and numerous natural springs
- For families, there’s plenty to see and do. On Sundays, vintage railway trips operate from Daylesford Station and travel through the Wombat State Forest. Have breakfast at the Boathouse Café by the lake, hire a boat, or feed the ducks. As well, horse riders can venture out on local trails for picnic rides.
Major events
- Chill Out – March
- Anderson’s Mill Food, Wine and Music Festival – April
- Swiss Italian Festa – May
- Fabulous Flower Festa – November.
How to get there
Daylesford is approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne on the Western Freeway or the Calder Freeway. V/Line operates regular, scheduled coach services to Daylesford.
