Daylesford

Daylesford, an hour and a half northwest of Melbourne, has many spas, good food and wine, a lush environment, artists, and holistic therapists.

Understand
The traditional owners of the area are the Djadja Wurrung people. Daylesford has the highest concentration of natural mineral springs in Australia and is affectionately known as the rainbow capital of regional Victoria with its long history of support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

By public transport
One can arrive in Daylesford by V/Line coach from Castlemaine, Ballarat or Woodend but there is only one stop in Daylesford and most of the sights are quite far without a car.

By car
Daylesford is about a 1 hour 20 mins drive from the centre of Melbourne. It is the easiest way to get to Daylesford. Go along the Western Freeway and follow the signs to arrive in Daylesford.

Get around
The town area is quite small and easily walkable, but for sights outside the town, a car or bike will be needed. Daylesford is quite steep so cycling may be difficult.

Do

 * Daylesford is one of the most famous places for a spa in Victoria. It is one of the main reasons to come to Daylesford. There are many different spa bathhouses, with Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa and The Lake House being some of the more famous ones. Most bathhouses also provide optional accommodation.
 * There are many mineral spring water taps available around the town where one may taste, or even fill a large container, for free. Although there are frequent water quality tests, be aware that the water is essentially untreated.
 * There are many mineral spring water taps available around the town where one may taste, or even fill a large container, for free. Although there are frequent water quality tests, be aware that the water is essentially untreated.

Buy
There is a strip of shops in the town centre. There is a large second hand book store with over 2 stories of books. There is also artwork at Stony Creek Gallery (see above) and craftwork from various shops.

Drink
Daylesford is fairly quiet during the night as most places close fairly early.

Sleep
Most bathhouses also provide accommodation at an additional cost. There are also many country retreats available. Below is an incomplete list of a few of the places to stay at.



Connect
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Go next
Ballarat, Castlemaine, Maldon, Trentham, Kyneton and Woodend are all nearby. Bendigo is about an hour away.