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Discover iconic places of Daylesford & Hepburn Springs, visiting heritage / historic buildings /gardens / art galleries and locations of the 1850’s goldrush & mineral spring’s reserves.
Experience the heart of Australia’s spa country, Daylesford, and the golden city, Castlemaine. They are remarkable gems reflecting the allure of the gold rush era and the serenity of nature.
Gold was discovered in Daylesford’s Wombat Flat in 1851, catapulting the town into Australia’s greatest gold rush frenzy. Today, with its partner Hepburn Springs, Daylesford is renowned as Australia’s spa capital. It boasts 80% of the country’s natural mineral springs, sourced from 72 distinct springs, affirming its royal status in the spa realm.
Castlemaine, steeped in an opulent 19th-century ambience, offers a blend of relaxation and sophistication. Gold seekers flocked here, sparking mining activities that shaped the city’s identity. The city enchants with its stunning gardens, broad boulevards, and impressive architecture – all reflective of the gold boom era.
The Mount Alexander goldfields, now preserved as the Castlemaine Diggings Heritage National Park, harmonize natural (Box-Ironbark forests) and cultural (Aboriginal sites and 19th-century gold rush relics) heritages.
Maldon declared ‘Notable’ by the National Trust of Australia, is Victoria’s best-preserved gold mining town. The 19th-century streetscape, showcasing old weatherboard homes, sturdy stone buildings, and quaint shopfronts, adds to its nostalgic charm.
Our Daylesford & Castlemaine Discovery Tour begins in the mineral-rich Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, exploring botanical gardens, lakes, waterfalls, and galleries and tasting mineral waters directly from the springs. As you stroll down Daylesford’s vibrant Vincent Street, discover a trove of eclectic shops and antiques.
The journey to Castlemaine unveils the Castlemaine Diggings Heritage National Park, Australia’s first National Heritage Park. Traversing the park, immerse yourself in the Box-Ironbark forests and encounter remnants of Aboriginal culture and gold mining.
Castlemaine delights with grand buildings and gardens, representing the grandeur of the gold rush era. The tour includes visiting the majestic Buda House, one of Castlemaine’s grand homes and gardens. This grandeur contrasts with modern Castlemaine, peppered with relaxed cafes, trendy boutiques, and a vibrant arts scene.
The tour concludes with a trip to Maldon, a well-preserved gold mining town, and a climb atop Mt Tarrangower, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Vincent Street Daylesford: The vibrant main artery of Daylesford, filled with a diverse mix of shops, cafes, and antique stores.
Mineral Spa Water tastings – Daylesford/Hepburn Springs: Taste the therapeutic mineral waters directly from the source in Australia’s spa capital.
Lake Daylesford: A picturesque body of water offering serene views, picnic spots, and gentle walking trails.
Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens: An elevated garden providing stunning panoramic views, lush landscapes, and a diverse collection of plants.
Convent Gallery – Art, Jewellery, Sculpture: A historic building turned into a vibrant arts hub, featuring contemporary art, jewellery, and sculptures.
Hepburn Regional Park – Blowhole mining area/Wild nature: A nature park known for its Gold Rush heritage, rich wildlife, and the famous Blowhole Gold Diversion Tunnel.
Castlemaine township – Historic streetscapes/Burke & Wills Monument lookout: A charming town with grand historical buildings, beautiful streetscapes, and a monument dedicated to the famed explorer’s Burke & Wills.
Castlemaine Diggings Heritage National Park – Australia’s only Heritage Park/Gold rush history: This park combines natural beauty and gold rush relics, offering a unique window into Australia’s past.
Buda Historic Home & Garden – Castlemaine (Open Wednesday to Sunday): A grand 19th-century home and garden showcasing the lifestyle of the wealthy Hunter family.
Maldon Township – Victoria’s first notable town/Mt Tarrangower lookout: A well-preserved gold mining town with charming historical buildings and a lookout offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
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