Things To Do In Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Best things to do in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Whether you're looking to sit in a mineral spring, get pampered at a day spa, explore local markets or take in the glorious scenery, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs has a little for the whole family. Let’s dive into the best things to do for your upcoming travel itinerary to the Daylesford region. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria 

 

Relax at the day spas and hot springs

One of the main attractions of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs is the day spas and mineral springs. The area is known for its natural springs, which are said to have healing properties due to their mineral content. Visitors can indulge in a range of spa treatments, from massages to facials, and take a dip in these mineral-rich waters. Some of the top places for a spa day include:

• The Mineral Spa – offers a range of treatments and has a stunning outdoor pool overlooking the surrounding countryside

• The Daylesford Healing Massage – this is another popular option, with a range of massages and body treatments on offer.

• The Bathhouse – has a range of spa treatments and indoor and outdoor pools filled with natural mineral water. 

For those who want to experience the mineral springs without the day spa inclusions, Wombat Flat Mineral Spring and Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve are both worth a visit. 

 

Shop the Daylesford Market

The Daylesford Markets is the perfect stop to enjoy fresh produce, handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and antiques. Held every Sunday from 8 am to 3 pm, the market is located in the heart of Daylesford at the Daylesford Station. The focus on locally sourced and handmade products is what makes this market special and gives travellers a true taste of the region. Whether you're looking for a special souvenir or just want to stock up on some fresh produce – with up to 130 stalls to browse – this is the perfect place to do so. 

 

Check out the art galleries

Art lovers will find plenty to appreciate in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, with a range of art galleries. One of the top galleries to visit is Stony Creek Gallery, which features contemporary Australian art, sculptures, and ceramics. The gallery is set amongst natural forests, adding to its charm and character. Another popular option is The Convent Gallery, which is located in a restored convent and features a mix of contemporary and traditional art. 

 

Visit historic buildings

The Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region is home to a number of historic buildings that are worth exploring for their unique charm and character. One such attraction is Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, which is a restored 1850s gold-rush-era farmstead that transports you back in time to the early days of settlement. The farm features beautiful gardens, original buildings and currently serves as a working lavender farm. The Daylesford Museum showcases the rich history of the region and features a range of exhibits and artifacts that have been donated over many years by locals and descendants of local settlers. 

All in all, the region is overflowing with historic buildings. In the 1850s, people from all over the world rushed to the area to search for gold and began their new lives here. This resulted in granite, bluestone and sandstone buildings being erected left, right and centre. So whether you are visiting a museum or simply wandering the streets, these historic buildings are hard to miss and absolutely add to the grandeur and charm of these gorgeous small towns. 

 

Check out Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock is a unique rock formation located in the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region. Characterized by steep cliffs, dense forests, and rocky outcrops, creating a dramatic and stunning backdrop for a day trip. Visitors can take a walk to the top of the rock for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside or simply explore the walking trails that wind through the forested slopes. Hanging Rock is one of the best examples in the world of a volcanic feature known as a ‘mamelon’ (a formation caused by a volcanic eruption) and holds great importance to the local Indigenous people. If you want to learn more, the Hanging Rock Discovery Centre provides further insights into the geology, flora, and fauna of the area.

 

Wander Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens 

The Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts exploring the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region. This beautiful garden is situated on the summit of an extinct volcano and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. While you can simply choose to wander the serene gardens, the variety of activities on offer really sets Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens apart. A few of the top things to do at Wombat Hill include:

• Climb the Pioneers Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the area

• Relax with a picnic in the gardens

• Dine at the Wombat Hill House Cafe

• Catch the annual Begonia display 

Whether you're a nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a must-visit destination on your Australia road trip.

 

Visit Lake Daylesford

If you are looking for something to do in town, Lake Daylesford is a stunning attraction located in the heart of Daylesford township. The lake is a man-made reservoir that was originally built to supply water to the local goldfields. Today, it is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and fishing. Lake Daylesford has beautiful scenery and a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by rolling hills and towering trees, the lake offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to relax and unwind. There are plenty of things to see and do at Lake Daylesford, including hiring paddle boards or kayaks to explore the lake and using the electric BBQs to cook up a feast. This is also the perfect spot to enjoy lunch and stretch your legs on a longer Australia road trip. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria 

 

Taste your way around the wineries

The region is home to a number of local wineries that specialise in cool-climate wines such as Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Shirazes. Some of the best wineries to visit in the area include:

• Ellender Estate – this boutique winery produces small-batch wines

• Glenlyon Estate Winery – this is a family-owned and operated vineyard that produces delicious premium wines 

• Passing Clouds Winery – a picturesque winery whose wines have won multiple awards

These are the perfect stop to enjoy a wine tasting and a bite to eat. We definitely suggest dropping by one, if not a few, of these brilliant wineries to grab a bottle to pair with your campervan-cooked meal while on your Australia road trip.

 

Shop for antiques at The Mill Markets

The Mill Markets is a unique shopping experience and an antique collector and enthusiast's dream. Housed in a historic wool mill, it features over 200 stallholders selling an eclectic range of antiques, vintage items, retro pieces, and collectibles. This is the perfect place to explore and discover treasures from the past. The market is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, and it's free to enter. Feeling peckish? No problem – The market also has a variety of food vendors and coffee shops, making it an excellent place to spend a whole day browsing while eating delicious food.

 

Where to stay in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

When travelling through this region, it's good to have a few ideas of where to park your campervan. Here are our top three picks for campervan accommodation in the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs region to add to your travel itinerary. 

 

Daylesford holiday park

Daylesford Holiday Park is just a short distance from the centre of Daylesford township. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene natural beauty, it offers a perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Conveniently located near most of the above attractions, it's a perfect place to park your camper while exploring the region. Here you can find all of the facilities you'd expect as well as a few unexpected bonuses, including 

• Amenities buildings

• Laundry

• Dump point 

• Trampolines 

• An outdoor cinema. 

Cost: Powered campervan sites start at $38 

 

Jubilee Lake holiday park

If you're looking for a waterside park up, then the Jubilee Lake Holiday Park is the place to be in the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne CBD and right across the oval from the beautiful Jubilee Lake, the Holiday Park offers plenty of great facilities, including:

• Camp kitchen

• Laundry

• Baby and toddler rooms

• Direct lake access

• An onsite cafe 

• Jetty fishing access

• Canoe and paddle boat hire. 

Cost: Powered campervan sites start at $40

 

Blackwood mineral springs holiday park

If you are looking for a retreat, immerse yourself in nature’s wild beauty at Blackwood Mineral Springs Holiday Park. Here you can settle into beautiful Victorian bushland, take a walk to the mineral springs, build your own campfire and relax after a day of exploring the region while on your Victorian road trip. 

Cost: Starting from $40 for a powered campervan site

 

Ready for a relaxing campervan getaway?

A campervan trip to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs is just what the doctor ordered – leaving you refreshed and ready for your next adventure. Located just under two hours from Melbourne, it makes an incredible weekend getaway, a week-long holiday or a stop to recoup on a longer Australia road trip. 

If you're in need of a laid-back and relaxing Australian bush getaway, hire a campervan with Britz today. For more ideas on things to do in wider Victoria, check out our Victoria campervan itineraries on the Britz blog.