Daylesford & Hepburn Springs

Nestled in the lush Wombat State Forest, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs form Victoria’s premier spa country, a region defined by mineral springs, vibrant art galleries, and a food scene that celebrates local produce. Once a gold rush town, Daylesford now draws visitors seeking relaxation in its natural thermal pools, while Hepburn Springs, just a few minutes away, is home to the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. The area’s multicultural heritage is evident in its grand 19th-century buildings and the annual Swiss-Italian festa. Whether you’re soaking in mineral-rich waters, browsing artisan studios, or walking through misty fern gullies, this is a place to slow down and indulge.

Highlights & What to See

• Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa – Soak in the historic mineral springs or book a modern spa treatment. The restored bathhouse offers both indoor and outdoor pools fed by natural spring water.
• Daylesford Lake & Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens – A peaceful spot for a picnic or a stroll around the lake, with the gardens offering panoramic views and a charming café in a converted gardener’s cottage.
• Convent Gallery – Housed in a former convent, this gallery showcases contemporary art, antiques, and a café with sweeping valley views. Don’t miss the stained-glass chapel.
• Mineral Springs Trail – A self-drive or cycle loop linking several spring sites, including the iconic Tipperary Spring and the bubbly Leavers Spring. Bring a bottle to taste the naturally carbonated waters.
• Daylesford Sunday Market – A vibrant market with local produce, artisan breads, handmade crafts, and live music – perfect for picking up picnic supplies.
• Wine & Cider Tasting – The region’s cool-climate vineyards and cideries, such as Passing Clouds and the Daylesford Cider Company, offer tastings paired with local cheeses.

Suggested Time to Spend

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are best enjoyed over a long weekend (2–3 days). Spend the first day exploring Daylesford’s galleries and lake, then dedicate the second to a spa morning and the Mineral Springs Trail. A third day allows for a wine tour or a hike in the Wombat State Forest. The towns are compact enough for a day trip from Melbourne (90 minutes’ drive), but you’ll miss the unhurried spa experience. Self-drive is ideal, as many attractions are scattered along country roads.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ballarat – Just 40 minutes south, Ballarat’s gold-rush heritage at Sovereign Hill and its lively arts scene make a perfect cultural counterpoint to the spa country.
• Mount Macedon – An hour east, this forested mountain offers cool-climate gardens, the Memorial Cross, and sweeping views of the surrounding plains.
• Kyneton – A 25-minute drive north, with a historic main street lined with antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and a thriving music scene.
• Castlemaine – 30 minutes north-west, known for its gold-rush architecture, boutique breweries, and the Castlemaine Art Museum.
• Wombat State Forest – Surrounding Daylesford, this forest offers hiking trails, mountain biking, and the spectacular Lerderderg Gorge for a wilder day out.

Please check official sources for current details.