1. Enjoy Daylesford’s Great Outdoors
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs have an abundance of walking tracks catering to all ages and abilities. The surrounding area of Hepburn Regional Park has a range of beautiful walking options for nature lovers to explore, including Sailors Falls, Central Springs Reserve, Mount Franklin Reserve, and Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve.
The Gold Fields Track runs right through Daylesford and Hepburn Springs and walking trails are generally well-marked The Daylesford Visitor Information Centre will be able to provide you with a printed map of the area showing the location of the walking trails, mineral springs, and other tourist sites as well.
Daylesford is also a popular fishing area, where you can find an array of species including rainbow trout, brown trout, golden perch, and redfin. Jubilee Lake is a great place to fish, as is Calembeen Lake and St Georges Lake. Make sure you have a valid Victorian fishing license prior to your trip. Fishing licenses can be purchased at the Department of Environment and Primary Industry website.
2. Relax at a Daylesford Day Spa or Wellness Centre
With so many options to indulge and rejuvenate, Daylesford is the ultimate place to pamper yourself. There are numerous natural therapy businesses in the area, offering a variety of massage and spa treatments.
Facials, aromatherapy, homoeopathy and reiki services are all offered, making Daylesford perfect for a romantic holiday with your loved one, or for a weekend away with friends. Our favourites include Daylesford Massage Healing Centre, Eko Spa and Daylesford Day Spa.
3. Discover Daylesford’s History
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs have a rich cultural history. The indigenous people of this land, the Dja Dja Wurrung, recognised the area for its healing waters and as a place of deep spiritual and ceremonial significance. Gold was discovered in the region in the 1850’s with settlements springing up at Wombat Flat and Spring Creek which later became Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
Many beautiful historic buildings from the 1800s are still standing today. When walking through the streets, you can admire the well-preserved architecture which is predominantly influenced by Swiss-Italian design as many of the early gold miners were from the Swiss-Italian border region. Villa Parma, the old Macaroni Factory, the Town Hall and historic Post Office are a few of our favourite buildings. If you are interested in discovering more about the history of the town, you can also visit the Daylesford Historical Society Museum.
More from Dayget
Pet Friendly Properties
We understand that pets are members of our family and sometimes they need a holiday too. In recognition of our furry friends we have gathered a group of properties where pets are welcome. All you need to do is pack the dog biscuits.
New Listings
Check out properties that had a recent refurbishment or renovation and the latest additions to our portfolio of holiday accommodation in Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and surrounds including modern architecturally designed villas, large country homes, lakeside villas and boutique hideaways.
Romantic Interludes
Whether you are taking time out with the special person in your life or looking for a special place to celebrate a romantic milestone, we have just the place for you. Choose from intimate cosy cottages to chic modern design. Let us help you find the ideal romantic getaway.
4. Taste Hepburn Springs
Of all the things to do in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, a trip to the region wouldn’t be the same without indulging in the region’s mineral-rich waters. In 1865, the 30-hectare Mineral Springs Reserve was created to protect the water in the area. There are over 80 natural springs high in calcium, silica, magnesium and an abundance of other minerals.
At mineral spas and bathhouses across the region, you can experience traditional communal bathing in warm mineral water, relaxation pools, spas, salt therapy pools and steam rooms. This is a unique Daylesford (Hepburn Springs) experience, and one not to be missed for anyone travelling to this beautiful region. Check out our dedicated Hepburn Springs accommodation collection or our general ‘what to do in Hepburn Springs’ page. Highlights include the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa and The Mineral Spa.
5. Spend an Afternoon Wine Tasting
The Macedon Ranges contains some of the finest boutique wineries in the country. The altitude and climate provide perfect conditions for excellent sparkling wine, chardonnay, pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon.
A range of wineries offer intimate cellar door tastings, and wines are often on a small scale. Passing Clouds, Guildford Vineyard & Cellar, Hanging Rock Winery, Gisborne Peak Winery and Granite Hills are not to be missed, whilst Kyneton Ridge Estate, and Captain’s Creek Organic Wines specialise in exceptional cool climate wines.
If you are looking at planning a winery tour but can’t decide on a ‘nominated driver’, the highly regarded Daylesford Wine Tours offer region wide boutique cellar door tours 7 days a week, customised specifically to your tastes.
6. Indulge Your Taste Buds
Spa Country is also home to numerous award-winning restaurants, bakeries and cafes. A range of fine dining and more casual options are available, with many restaurants serving locally grown produce.
In Daylesford ––Our favourites include Boathouse Restaurant, Sakana, Pancho and the Lakehouse
In Hepburn Springs – Frank & Connie’s, The Surly Goat as well as Harry & Me for coffee
When venturing just outside of Daylesford; Du Fermier (Trentham), Swiss Mountain Hotel (Blampied), Farmers Arms (Creswick), The Criterion (Clunes) and Talbot Provedore & Eatery (Talbot) are well worth the trip.
The Chocolate Mill is also a must-see for those who are looking for culinary delights. Here you can see the chocolatiers at work, indulge in a rich hot chocolate and cake in the cafe, and sift through the various sweets on offer, including truffles, nougat, and Turkish delight.
7. Treat Yourself and Go Shopping
If you feel like a day of shopping, Daylesford will not disappoint. Walk along Vincent Street or Howe Street and you will come across a variety of home wares and gift shops, bookshops, clothing stores, antique shops and vintage items to suit all tastes.
You’ll find a few hidden gems in the side streets and the the enormous Mill Market full of vintage delights a not far from the main roads.
You could easily stock up on a range of treasures for yourself, your friends and your family simply by spending the day wandering through the Daylesford shops.
8. Spend Some Time at the Local Daylesford Markets
The Daylesford Sunday markets are located at the historic Daylesford Spa Country Railway Station and open every Sunday – rain, hail or shine. Featuring fresh produce, handicrafts and second-hand collectibles, you are bound to find something at this bustling marketplace. Visitors generally start arriving at about 10am, and there is ample free parking available. The market is child and pet-friendly, and kids will love the heritage train rides which run through the forest.
There are markets, including farmer’s markets, in most of the villages in the region on different weekends. Our What’s On page lists all the markets for the current month.
The Mill Markets, Australia’s largest indoor antique market, is also a must-see. Jam-packed full of clothes, furniture, books, art and collectibles, this is an unforgettable experience for any antique hunter.
9. Explore the Art
Head over to The Convent Gallery for an afternoon of art and history. The Convent Gallery includes exhibition spaces, function rooms, a museum, a chapel and exquisite garden with scenic views over Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
Located on Wombat Hill, the Gallery was originally built as the residence for the Gold Commissioner in the 1860’s. It was purchased by the Catholic Church 20 yeas later, then was converted into a residence for the Holy Cross Convent and became a boarding school for girls. After many years of neglect, it was purchased by artist Tina Banitska who had a dream of transforming the beautiful building into a place for the community to enjoy. Her dream has certainly become a reality.
10. Have a Daylesford Day Out With the Family
There is no shortage of family-friendly activities in Daylesford. You can enjoy a picnic at Lake Daylesford for a picturesque and relaxing family outing, or if you prefer a bush setting with a few more recreational options you could go out to Lake Jubilee. The Wombat Hill Gardens are also a great place for kids to play, with a lookout tower and plenty of areas to explore.
Horse riding is a very popular activity for families and is offered at Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides and Boomerang Holiday Ranch. For the more adventurous book the whole family in to a GPS treasure hunt game at Lake Daylesford organised through Secret Forest Walks.
For a fun day out with the kids, don’t miss Maze House located just outside of Daylesford at Newlyn North. Make your way through the 25-year-old hedge maze, test your skills in the carnival fun garden and then relax in the garden cafe.
Daylesford Accommodation for the most discerning of guests – Dayget.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions about Daylesford & Hepburn Springs
What's the best time of year to visit Daylesford?
The beauty of Daylesford is that every season offers a completely different experience, making it one of Victoria’s few true year-round destinations. While there’s never a bad time to visit, many locals believe autumn is when Daylesford is at its most beautiful.
As the crisp country air arrives, the region’s magnificent deciduous trees transform into vibrant shades of gold, amber and crimson, creating colourful streets and spectacular country drives. Vineyards begin preparing for harvest, fireplaces are lit, and there’s something special about wandering the boutique shops before settling into your accommodation with a good book from Paradiso Bookshop, a local bottle of wine and a crackling open fire.
Winter is all about slowing down. Cool mornings, mist drifting across the hills, luxurious mineral spa experiences, hearty country food and cosy evenings by the fire make it the perfect season for a romantic escape. It’s the ideal time to enjoy long lunches, indulgent spa treatments and relaxing weekends away.
Spring brings colourful gardens, blooming lavender, fresh country produce and some of the region’s best walking weather. Visit Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, stroll through The Convent Gallery Gardens, explore the walking trails around Hepburn Regional Park or enjoy lunch overlooking the vineyards as the countryside comes alive again.
Summer offers warm days perfect for lakeside picnics, winery visits, outdoor dining, farmers’ markets and exploring the many villages throughout Spa Country. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, spend the afternoon discovering boutique galleries and antique stores, then finish the day with dinner at one of the region’s award-winning restaurants.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a girls’ weekend, a family holiday or simply a peaceful country escape, Daylesford has a way of making every season feel memorable.
Can you walk between Daylesford and Hepburn Springs?
Yes. Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are connected by a scenic walking trail through Hepburn Regional Park. The walk takes around 30 to 40 minutes and passes beautiful bushland, mineral springs and natural attractions, making it one of the region’s most enjoyable experiences.
What are the best weekend trips from Melbourne?
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs consistently rank among Victoria’s favourite weekend escapes, and it’s easy to see why. Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, the region offers the perfect opportunity to leave the city behind and immerse yourself in fresh country air, beautiful scenery and a slower pace of life.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a girls’ weekend, a family holiday or simply a relaxing break, Daylesford offers something for everyone. Spend your days soaking in natural mineral springs, indulging in award-winning restaurants and cafés, exploring boutique wineries, wandering through art galleries and antique stores, or discovering local treasures at The Mill Markets and the popular Daylesford Sunday Market.
Nature lovers can enjoy scenic walks, while families will love the lakes, playgrounds and outdoor adventures. Many cafés, wineries and accommodation options also welcome pets, making it an ideal destination for everyone.
Where can I go for a romantic weekend in Victoria?
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are widely regarded as one of Victoria’s most romantic destinations, combining luxury accommodation, award-winning dining, natural mineral springs and beautiful countryside just 90 minutes from Melbourne.
Spend the day relaxing at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa or The Spa at Lake House, wander through Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm or The Convent Gallery Gardens, browse antiques at The Mill Markets, or discover local makers at the Daylesford Sunday Market.
Enjoy wine tasting at Passing Clouds, followed by dinner at Lake House, The Surly Goat or breakfast at Cliffy’s Emporium. End the day back at your accommodation beside an open fire with a bottle of local wine—the perfect way to reconnect and unwind together.
Why is Daylesford known as Australia's Spa Capital?
Daylesford is known as Australia’s Spa Capital because it is home to the country’s largest concentration of natural mineral springs. Unlike geothermal hot springs, Daylesford’s waters are naturally rich in minerals including calcium, magnesium and silica. As rainwater filters through ancient volcanic rock over thousands of years, it absorbs these minerals before emerging naturally as sparkling mineral water.
The healing waters were first recognised by the Dja Dja Wurrung people before European settlers established bathhouses inspired by the famous spa towns of Europe. Today, visitors can sample mineral water directly from public springs or enjoy luxurious mineral bathing experiences at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.
Where are the best mineral springs in Daylesford?
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are home to Australia’s largest concentration of natural mineral springs. Popular locations include Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, where visitors can sample water from the historic Soda, Sulphur, Locarn
Other favourites include Tipperary Spring, Sailors Falls Mineral Springs, Jubilee Spring and Wombat Flat Mineral Springs. Each spring has its own unique mineral composition, making exploring them part of the Daylesford experience.
What minerals are found in Daylesford mineral water?
Daylesford’s naturally occurring mineral water commonly contains calcium, magnesium, silica, sodium and bicarbonates. Each spring has a slightly different mineral profile and taste.
For generations, these waters have been valued for their perceived wellness and rejuvenating properties. Today, visitors enjoy tasting the naturally sparkling mineral water directly from the springs or relaxing in mineral-rich bathing pools throughout the region.
What are the best things to do on a girls' weekend in Daylesford?
Daylesford is one of Victoria’s favourite destinations for a girls’ getaway. Relax at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa or The Spa at Lake House, browse the boutiques along Vincent Street, enjoy wine tasting at Passing Clouds, wander through the Daylesford Sunday Market, explore The Mill Markets, and indulge in long lunches at Lake House, Cliffy’s Emporium or The Surly Goat.
Finish the day back at your accommodation with local wine, great food and a cosy fire—it’s the perfect recipe for a memorable weekend with friends.
What are the best walks in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs?
Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a longer bushwalk, the region has something for everyone.
30–45 minutes: Lake Daylesford, Central Springs Reserve.
45–60 minutes: Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens.
1–2 hours: Daylesford to Hepburn Springs Walking Track, Sailors Falls.
2–4 hours: Bryces Flat Loop, sections of the Goldfields Track.
From mineral springs and waterfalls to forests and lakes, the walking trails are one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Spa Country.
