GO ON, TAKE A HIKE
Discover autumn hues on our hiking trails
WHISKY, THE WATER OF LIFE
We chat to the whisky makers of the region
GRAVEL MAGIC
Victoria's hottest new biking destination
COOL CLIMATE CELLAR DOORS
Top spots to stop and sip
Rebecca lives in the Macedon Ranges and believes it is the perfect playground for her to dive deep into photographing all the things she loves.
Spending time with her family, establishing strong connections within the community and creating honest photographic stories for businesses, events, weddings & families is her jam.
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We acknowledge the Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land and waterways of our region. We recognise their living cultures and ongoing connection to Country and pay respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.
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There is always plenty happening around Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. Follow us as we take a journey around the region, exploring exciting new openings, including everything from cosy new wine bars and welcoming country pubs, to luxurious accommodation and boutique stores. We also take a look at some of the highly-anticipated events happening over the cooler months.
We begin in Woodend, which is fast establishing itself as a new dining and drinking destination. The Gindu Distiller Door is now open, offering tastings of their award-winning gins, accompanied by Aussie bush tapas. Just down the road, pop into the newly opened 600 Above for cocktails, beer and wine, accompanied by grazing platters, where the focus is very much local.
Rest your head at the luxurious and meticulously restored Islay House. Previously known as the British and American Hotel, this former coaching inn was a resting place for hopeful gold miners as they walked to Bendigo in the 1860s. Before leaving Woodend, pop into Nope Store, a new menswear store offering a curated collection of streetwear labels.
Just up the road in Kyneton, the much-loved Spaghetti Bar has been reimagined, reopening recently as Marchesa Kyneton. Just out of town, The Langley is a new luxury hotel, dedicated entirely to dogs.
In Romsey, The 1860 (formerly The Romsey Hotel) has reopened its doors, serving up pub classics and local drops, while Macedon Distillery is the newest kid on the distillery block. At this familyowned small-batch distillery, they create a cool new version of Greece’s favourite tipple, ouzo. You can pick up a bottle from various drinking and dining establishments around the Macedon Ranges. For further award winning drops, pop into Big Tree Distillery and enjoy their revamped distillery door.
Or, let someone else do the hard work for you and join a tour with Journey Through The Ranges. This new hop-on, hop-off tour option explores the many
wineries, gin distilleries and breweries found within the Macedon Ranges.
Trentham Hotel (formerly The Plough) has reopened in Trentham following a restoration. This welcoming country pub is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week (and for brunch on weekends). They also offer live music in their beer garden on Sunday afternoons.
Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa in Hepburn Springs have revolutionised their spa treatment offering with a whole new facial and massage menu. While Gewürzhaus is a welcome new addition to Daylesford’s vibrant Vincent Street, offering their famous self-scoop spices and more.
We also celebrate 40 years of the much-loved Lake House this year, with a series of celebration events planned during August and December.
Speaking of events, we have plenty of fun options to choose from over the coming months. The autumn colours of the region are celebrated during the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival (5-28 April). Whether you are into food, drinks, live music or autumn treasure hunts – there is something for all.
Cresfest brings three days of dance and music to Creswick (5-7 April), while the family friendly Great Trentham Spudfest (4-5 May), celebrates the humble potato in all its forms with two days of food, wine, music and more. History buffs are in for a treat at the Anderson’s Mill Heritage Weekend (11-12 May), where you can witness the huge waterwheel as it comes back to life.
All winter long, lovers of live music, the written word and cinema are also spoilt for choice. Options include Woodend Winter Arts Festival (7-10 June); Castlemaine Documentary Festival (14-16 June) and Winter Sounds (16-18 August).
These are just some of the many reasons to start planning a trip to our beautiful region. We look forward to seeing you soon.
One of the lovely things about our region is that it is friendly, diverse, inclusive and welcoming. So, we were pretty chuffed when Booking.com named Daylesford the fourth most welcoming town in the world. Whether it’s the LGBTQIA+ pride event Chillout, the vibrant artistic community, warm hospitality venues, many wellness practices or friendly locals at the pub, you’ll feel part of the community each time you visit.
Speaking of friendly, in this edition you’ll meet Shane; one of the nicest people on earth - and Head Ranger at Hanging Rock (Ngannelong) Reserve - who shares his ‘Insiders Guide’ to the Macedon Ranges. We also explore our winery cellar doors; if you want to visit a boutique winery where there’s every chance you’ll meet the wine maker, then it’s a must read. Speaking of wine makers, the legendary John Ellis OAM from Hanging Rock Winery was kind enough to share his journey with us; he’s a remarkable man. We also shine a light on our historic pubs, noteworthy bakeries and wellness offerings. We meet the region’s whisky makers and provide some hot tips on the best hikes to embrace autumn colours. And much more.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
WUNCOVER A HIDDEN GEM OF THE MACEDON RANGES AT BIG TREE DISTILLERY.
Escape to the heart of the countryside and experience the charm of Big Tree Distillery. Nestled in picturesque farmland, the distillery door, deck and garden offer an idyllic setting for creating enduring memories with family and friends.
Big Tree's exclusive bottles showcase artwork by local artists Sarah Gabriel and Melbourne's botanical artist David Reynolds. Designed as keepsakes, these beautiful bottles ensure that your visit remains etched in your memory.
Plan your weekend getaway and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience at Big Tree Distillery.
Gift box includes: 2 x 700ml Big Tree premium gins and other goodies to make the perfect G&T. Starting from $227
307 Hennerbergs Road, Newham, Vic bigtreedistillery.com.au
Experience the ultimate epicurean escape for two, filled with luxurious accommodation, fine food, indulgent drops, immersive experiences, guided tours and blissful relaxation.
Enjoy a 2-night stay at the incredible Dairy Flat Farm & Lodge Daylesford, including cooked breakfast daily, private tours, onsite beverages, a multi-course lunch at the two-hatted Lake House restaurant and a signed copy of Alla Wolf-Tasker’s book, Three Decades On Valued at $2100.
Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Bathing Ritual, relaxation massage and traditional omakase dinner Valued at $698.
Kadota Enjoy a magnificent evening with a luxury menu and matching sake Valued at $590
Holgate Brewhouse Escape with a mid-week B&B stay, threecourse dinner and beer-tasting paddles. Valued at $310.
Mount Monument Savour lunch, including a bottle of Mount Monument wine and complimentary wine tasting Valued at $300
Sault Celebrate with a restaurant gift voucher Valued at $300.
Daylesford Spirits Sip on award-winning gin and signature cocktails paired with artisan French-style cheeses from Long Paddock Cheese. Valued at $250.
Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa Relax with a Sanctuary Mineral Bathing experience Valued at $240
Mount Towrong Vineyard Experience an afternoon filled with Italian food and wine Valued at $200
We’re generalising (slightly) here, but there are two kinds of wine regions: the big, well-known ones, with huge estates that produce gigalitres of wine and have cellar doors that churn visitors in and out…and the small, lesser-known regions that are home to boutique, family-run vineyards, with low volumes, high quality and unpretentious cellar doors where you often get to meet the winemaker.
The Macedon Ranges wine region is the latter, where the cool climate wines have won swags of awards, all only an hour or so from Melbourne. To get you started, here are a few cellar doors to check out.
The remarkable cellar door at Mount Towrong was designed by architect Paul Couch. Visitors sigh in appreciation when they first see the sliding reclaimed timber front door, and the uber cool style continues from there. This winery is dedicated to producing Italian wine varietals such as prosecco, ribolla gialla, vermentino, nebbiolo, negroamaro and lagrein. These exciting varietals complement the carefully curated Italian lunch and the friendly pooches just add to the welcoming vibe.
Open: Saturday and Sunday mounttowrong.com.au
True to its name, Mount Monument is truly monumental in both vision and execution, with sculptures scattered over the expansive landscape. Created by Nonda Katsalidis, the architect behind MONA and Eureka Tower, the style and sculptures flow inside, and the cellar door and adjoining restaurant is extraordinary. Better yet the wine is made by 2021 ‘Young Gun of Wine’ winner, Ben Rankin.
Open: Friday to Sunday mountmonument.com.au
Paramoor Winery is a hidden jewel, thriving in a cool climate that nurtures the slow ripening of its 20-yearold pinot noir, riesling and pinot gris vines. An original Clydesdale barn serves as the tasting room, providing a rustic and nostalgic setting, which is extra cosy in winter when the fireplace is roaring.
Open: Friday to Monday paramoor.com.au
Follow a narrow forest trail and into a clearing to find this high-altitude cellar door and restaurant. Sitting at almost 700m above sea level, Mount Macedon Winery offers the signature styles of the region: sparkling, chardonnay and pinot noir. Food options include woodfired pizza in the cellar door or set-course dining in UUMM Restaurant. The views are amazing, enhanced by the highland cows that call the verdant slopes home.
Open: Thursday to Sunday (lunch)
Friday & Saturday (dinner) mountmacedonwinery.com.au
John and Ann Ellis bought the property in 1982, chosen because of the cool-climate conditions that are perfect for making sparkling wine, a passion of theirs (read more about John Ellis on page 23). Ruth and Rob Ellis have now taken over custodianship of the winery, and Hanging Rock has become one of the great pillars of the region. Here you can sip on
their range of sparkling wine, riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz as you take in spectacular views of Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon.
Open: 7 days hangingrock.com.au
Located halfway between Daylesford and Kyneton, and immersed in the Wombat State Forest, is Wombat Forest Winery. Enjoy outstanding service, friendly chats and cheese plates while you enjoy the views of a thriving wombat habitat amongst ancient gum trees. As for the wine, choose from NV blanc de noir, chardonnay, pinot gris, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon and merlot.
Open: Friday to Sunday wombatforestwines.com
Granite Hills is an icon of the region, with vines planted back in the 1970s. A host of compelling wines are on offer; there’s pinot blanc, gruner veltliner, riesling, gamay, pinot noir and blended heavier reds. A regional pioneer, their wines have won countless awards and are held in the highest esteem amongst those in the know. Conoisseurs will love the experience, along with the beautiful scenery.
Open: 7 days
granitehills.com.au
Just outside Daylesford is Passing Clouds Winery. Here, second generation winemaker Cameron Leith and his team produce cool climate wines, including pinot noir and chardonnay. Taste their range at the welcoming cellar door, before moving on to the recently renovated dining room for a three-course shared La Famiglia lunch.
Open: Thursday to Monday (cellar door)
Friday to Monday (lunch) passingclouds.com.au
Lyons Will Estate specialises in cool climate signature varietals: pinot noir, chardonnay, riesling and gamay. Vignerons and owners, Ollie and Renata, have recently opened a stunning new light-filled tasting room, which overlooks the surrounding vines. Expect a friendly and lively welcome, and if you’re into wine talk, a granular, knowledgeable conversation on their favourite topic.
Open: Friday to Sunday lyonswillestate.com.au
Stepping down into Cleveland Winery’s underground cellar door is reminiscent of visiting a Burgundian winery, and the team here backs it up with quality pinot noir and chardonnay – two grapes one associates with Burgundy. You can also choose to stay on, taking
advantage of the newly refurbished accommodation, restaurant and outstanding views.
Open: Friday to Sunday clevelandwinery.com.au
Attwoods Wines is home to a beautifully renovated cellar door, overlooking rolling vineyards and leafy gardens. The French-inspired restaurant Le Bouchon, which offers a seasonal menu of four or five courses, has a terraced deck from which you can enjoy exceptional pet nat, chardonnay, rosé, pinot noir or shiraz, produced by winemaker Troy Walsh.
Open: Friday to Monday attwoodswines.com.au
Opening hours are subject to change. Please contact the winery directly to confirm before making the trip.
Photos (opposite page L-R): Wombat Forest Winery (photography by Chloe Smith), Paramoor Winery (photography by Tiffany Warner), Passing Clouds Winery (photography by Nikole Ramsay).
Other must visit cellar doors:
Captains Creek Organic Wines, Blampied
Gisborne Peak Winery & Cottages, Gisborne
Kyneton Ridge Estate, Kyneton
Hesket Estate, Hesket
Parkside Winery & Farm, Lancefield
Panacea Estate, Welshman's Reef
Red Poppy Estate, Romsey
Kyneton local, Shane Caruana, holds the dream job of Head Ranger at Hanging Rock (Ngannelong) Reserve. We chat to him about why he loves his job and we get the inside word on his favourite places to eat, drink and explore around the Macedon Ranges.
Tell us a little bit about your job at Hanging Rock Reserve?
I’ve loved the place since I was a kid, so to get to work here now, in a place that is so culturally and environmentally significant, and to be responsible for the park’s operations is a real privilege. I have an incredibly diverse role, which means that every day is different – I lead a brilliant team that genuinely love the place, I deliver guided tours and love engaging with visitors to give them the best experience possible. There’s the park operations, and conservation and maintenance, and I work with some amazing event
organisers to deliver world-class concerts, horse racing, car shows, half-marathons and markets.
What drew you to the Macedon Ranges and how long have you called the region home?
I used to holiday up here as a kid, so I’ve always had a connection to the region. I love the lifestyle, and the fact that you feel a world away from the hustle and bustle, but you’re not. I’ve been here for almost 11 years, firstly in Woodend and now Kyneton, with my wife Kate and kids Lexi and Finn.
Where is your favourite spot to eat for a fancy night out?
My kids are six and three, so anything that’s a step up from the pub is fancy for me. I love Oaks Grill on Piper and typically go there with a group of friends. Their setting is super and their menu is amazing. We make the most of a night out and grab a sneaky drink before or after from The Piper Street Wine Company, Botanik Bar, Animus or Miss M’s Lounge. Two other dining favourites are Fook Shing and Kuzu Izakaya (in Woodend).
And where is your top pick for more casual bites?
Our region nails this, but my faves to grab a casual bite are both in Kyneton. Firstly, Donkey for fried chicken that’s out of this world (their drinks are pretty spot on too). Secondly, Major Tom’s is the best burger joint hands-down. Both places are dead-set cool and have an awesome vibe.
What’s your choice local drop (either beer, gin or wine)?
You’re making me choose? I love them all and we’re spoilt for choice. For beer, The Lost Watering Hole or Holgate Brewhouse Big Tree Distillery for gin. As for wine, Hanging Rock Winery, Lyons Will Estate, Hesket Estate, Hunter Gatherer Winery or Parkside Estate all offer amazing drops and are all brilliant places to visit too.
But here’s my main tip – don’t choose which ones to go to, stay for a few days and visit all of them. My pick of places to stay – any one of the Flophouse properties, Braeside Mount Macedon, Bunjil Farm, Kyneton Springs Motel or the Lancefield Guesthouse (it’s directly across the road from The Lost Watering Hole too).
What is your favourite location for an afternoon beverage?
The Victoria Hotel in Woodend, Kyneton Hotel and Kyneton Ridge Estate. Kyneton Ridge overlooks Black Hill Reserve, which is another great place to go for a walk… maybe not after a few wines though!
As a family man, where is your favourite place to go with the kids?
Breakfast at Duck Duck Goose and Larder on Piper Street, then a takeaway coffee from Monsieur Pierre before heading off on the Campaspe River Walk. Kate and I walk while the kiddos scoot until we get to the Community Park at Kyneton Botanic Gardens – it’s brilliant! As a treat, I get to carry the scooters all the way back. The Romsey Ecotherapy Park and Woodend Children’s Park are both awesome too.
What’s your best walking or cycling track?
I dream of smashing it around the Wombat Forest on my mountain bike, but reality is that doesn’t happen too often! I do love tackling one of the many walking trails though. The Summit Walking Trail at Hanging Rock
is an obvious favourite, the next best thing is the walk to Camels Hump at the top of Mount Macedon. It’s relatively short and sharp, but geez it’s a good one - the view from the top is spectacular and looks out over the top of Hanging Rock.
If you have friends visiting from out of town, where’s the one spot you recommend they visit?
Mount Towrong Vineyard – amazing food and wine, cool setting and warm and welcoming owners. And Hanging Rock too, of course.
If you’re a sucker for a quaint weatherboard pub with a verandah or a heritage hotel full of character, the region has an abundance of historic haunts at which you can wet your whistle.
From spooky hauntings to bushranger cameos, the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region has plenty of pubs that have worked their way into the pages of history. Next time you visit, be sure to stop in at these pubs with a past.
Since opening in 1868, the Kyneton Hotel has had many names (including Murphy’s Hotel and Newmarket Hotel) but it’s the name Ned Kelly that many associate with this beloved pub. As a teen, the infamous bushranger stayed on the premises for nine nights after being held for armed robbery at Kyneton lock-up. Just like Ned Kelly, you too can bed down in one of the hotel’s 14 rooms that have recently been refurbished. thekynetonhotel.com.au
Over the years, the rooms within Trentham’s famous weatherboard pub have been home to a general store,
butcher, a dental office and accommodation for Cobb & Co travellers on their way to Blackwood. Several tragic deaths befell the early inhabitants of the hotel, giving rise to frequent ghost sightings. Then in 2005, fire ravaged the building. Thankfully, the Cosmo prevailed. Today, its dining room, front bar, gardens, wine cellar and store and function space are flourishing. thecosmopolitanhotel.com.au
The newest incarnation of this historic pub opened its doors to guests in December 2023, with the numerical name tipping its hat to the year in which this Romsey landmark first opened. In bygone years this building has served as a restaurant, café, tearoom, homewares store and a residence, but The 1860 has now gone back to its roots and is a place to raise a glass and have a feed. Pub classics (steaks, burgers and bangers & mash) are all represented on the menu but there’s also a few surprises, like marinated tofu tacos. Drops from Macedon Ranges wineries like Lyons
Will Estate and Hunter Gatherer Winery make this a top place for tasting local wine too. the1860.com.au
Since the early days of Woodend, a hotel of some sort has stood at the location of Holgate. When the previous wooden hotel burned down in the late 1890s, the brick building you see today was built. For a long time it was known as Keatings Hotel, until new owners took over in 2002. After slowly renovating the building (and adding a brewhouse, tap room and visitor centre) Natasha and Paul Holgate have managed to keep the legacy of the hotel alive while adding modern touches. holgateexperience.com
Known as Mack’s Hotel when it was established by Donald Mackay in 1870, the Lancefield Hotel has a long history of serving the community. While the building
has changed over the years, many original features of the front bar and dining room remain. The community focus hasn’t changed either (the pub’s serving boards and cutlery boxes were made by the Lancefield Men’s Shed). There’s even a menu item named after the original publican - the Old Mack Burger. thelancefieldhotel.com.au
Whether it’s a dramatic shootout or a vicious knife fight, a lot of action has gone down at Woodend’s historic Victoria Hotel. Built in the 1860s to capitalise on the gold mining boom, it was on New Year’s Eve in 1921 that a man named Edward Allison shot a patron at the hotel. Seven years later, the licensee of the hotel was stabbed by a group of men. Isabella Ames took over ownership in the 1920s, with the hotel being kept in the family for many decades. Her ghost is said to haunt the premises to this day. thevictoriawoodend.com.au
This Chewton fixture known for its eye-catching vinecovered exterior will turn an impressive 170 years old this year. From holding celebratory balls to send-offs for World War One soldiers and industrial meetings for gold miners, the Red Hill Hotel has always been a community gathering place. Much has changed since this timeless beauty first opened, but more than a century and a half later this watering hole still knows how to provide cures for what ails you. redhillhotel.com.au
Built in 1865, this Blampied landmark is one of the oldest continuously licensed weatherboard pubs in Victoria. At one stage this quaint pub was known as The Manchester, but its current name is a nod to the Swiss-Italian families who migrated to the area in the late 1800s. While the original pub would have offered simple ales and meals for farmers, gold miners and travellers coming and
going from Ballarat, these days you’ll find pasture-fed steaks, craft beer and fine wine on the menu. swissmountainhotel.com.au
With the arrival of the cooler weather, there is no better time to experience the tranquillity and deep relaxation of the Japanese bathing ritual.
Few experiences can match the feeling of sitting in a piping hot bath in a natural setting, paired with a silence so profound you can hear the beating of your own heart.
Shizuka Ryokan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse in Hepburn Springs, is the ideal place to do this.
Imagine … evening is falling. You have returned to the ryokan after a day enjoying the Daylesford region. Stopping to listen, you hear the evening breeze in the trees as you sip a green tea. You slip out of your clothes and into a yukata (Japanese bathing robe), and take the stepping-stone path down to the bathhouse.
As you enter, you notice that the sun is setting below the garden wall. You hang your yukata on a hook and sit on a stool in the washing area. With the hand-held shower, you lather and scrub your body, rinse carefully and step out into the bracing air where your bath awaits, steam rising invitingly from the hot water.
You reach down to check the water temperature before lowering yourself into the bath, slowly letting your body become accustomed to the temperature. Your body feels alive after the vigorous scrubbing, and your muscles begin to unwind while your mind finds peace. When the bath temperature begins to feel too much, you perch out of the water and cool yourself in the fresh country air for a few minutes.
Revived and immersed in the water once more, you lean back and open your eyes to the surrounding landscape. You notice the details of flowers and trees and appreciate the beauty of a single frost-nipped leaf,
the petals of a wintery bloom, or the restful contours of a solitary boulder.
Having lost track of time, you are reminded by the gentle sound of the temple bell outside the gate to dry off and wrap yourself in the yukata, before your therapist collects you for your massage. After another hour of deep relaxation, you wrap yourself in the yukata, feeling rejuvenated you stroll through the garden before enjoying a traditional five-course omakase dinner.
Book your Japanese Bathing Ritual at Shizuka Ryokan now. Or even better, extend your experience with an overnight stay in one of the traditional Japanese guestrooms.
The mark of a good country town is the quality of its baked goods; most notably the vanilla slice, a meat pie and more recently, sourdough. In Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, we have them all.
The Reid family have passed the baton to a new caretaker of this much-loved institution, with its exquisite 140-year-old scotch oven. The iconic sourdough introduced to the region by John Reid over eighteen years ago remains the same. It is the ‘Nice Bun’ that is the standout for us. The subtle taste of clove lingers in the mouth, the sundried currants could be confused for blueberries they are so sweet and succulent, the demerara sugar sits atop the bun providing a sweetness and a comforting crunch. Delicious.
Dairy Flat Farm, owned by the Wolf-Taskers, grows fruit and vegetables for the tables at Lake House Hidden away in the old cellar is a bakery. As guests sleep upstairs, bakers are busy folding and laminating a delicious array of viennoiseries (French baked goods). These include crusty sourdough, moreish pastries topped with the season's harvest such as
rhubarb and pistachio, and baguettes, perfectly crispy and crunchy on the outside and deliciously chewy on the inside. Pick up these tasty treats at Wombat Hill House or their stall at the Daylesford Sunday Market
Peer through the window and find classic French delicacies under the glass top cabinets. Lined up elegantly are treats such as millefeuille, madeleines and caneles. It is the tarte au chocolat et cacahuetes that gets our mouth watering. It’s the fanciest ‘snickers bar’ in existence! Sweet pastry is filled with salted butter caramel, and topped with caramelised peanuts and a dark chocolate ganache.
Johnny Baker is all things to all people. Whether you want a ‘you beaut‘ Aussie pie or something more adventurous like curried tofu and chickpea, everyone walks away happy. Whilst the pies are delicious, the standout is ‘The Crown’; every bit as regal as it sounds. Picture croissant dough fashioned into a kouign-amann style pastry. Flavours include rose-infused cream cheese, pistachio and white chocolate.
Who doesn’t love an old-school bakery? Bourkies is exactly that, serving up nostalgic icons like the hedgehog, the smiley biscuit (they sometimes lovingly rename ‘moody monsters’) and the caramel slice. And we can’t not mention their multi awardwinning vanilla slice.
COUNTRY COBB, KYNETON
This classic Australian bakery punches above its weight, winning ‘Australia’s best pie’ in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2023. The 2023 winner was their satay seafood pie, 2020 was sticky pork and pepper. Come for the pies and stay for the vanilla slice. Country Cobb took out second place for Australia’s best vanilla slice in 2023. Jump in the car, or on the train, and come and find out for yourself.
We’ve heard it all before – the benefits of nature as therapy, but have you stopped, stretched and smelled the banksia lately?
We should all be encouraged to step outside and take that deep breath and plunge into nature; and the best way to do it? A walk of course! And autumn sure is a spectacular time to do it.
There are plenty of walks of varying degrees around the incredibly picturesque Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. Full day hikes, strolls for lovers, rail trails for families and steep inclines that will leave you with the ability to crack an egg on your calves by the end!
For nature lovers seeking a sweet stroll with a picnic, look no further than the Five Mile Creek Track in Woodend. At just over three kilometres, this track is surrounded by
nature on both sides. Soak up the stunning black gums (Eucalyptus Aggregata) as this is the only known natural occurrence of Black Gums in Victoria. Arrive back at the Woodend Farmer’s Market (first Saturday of the month) for a coffee scroll or a spring roll. Time and energy permitting, consider extending your walk around the old Woodend racecourse. This pleasant walk is particularly impressive in autumn, when the silver birch trees that line the track put on a vibrant yellow display.
There’s something quite dreamy about walking alongside a river and if this is your choice of walking landscape, try Kyneton’s colourful Campaspe River Walk, which begins at the Botanic Gardens and takes you along a wistful pathway along the riverbank, ending at historic Piper Street. Pack a picnic or a novel, and complete your journey on foot at one of Kyneton’s delicious bars and eateries.
A favourite amongst local bushwalkers is Black Hill Reserve, located approximately five minutes’ drive from Kyneton. Choose from two types of walks – head straight up the hill for picturesque views and proposalready picnic spots, or a hustle around the base that can be done in under an hour. Twitchers, stay alert as a variety of native birds can be spotted here.
If a steep climb is on your mind, look no further than straight up Mount Macedon. Plan for a full day of hiking and nature exploring in this glorious natural paradise just under an hour from Melbourne. There are walks of varying degrees and durations, for the amateur walker to the fully rehearsed hiker, that will take you up, over and around Macedon Regional Park. Or, if gardens are your joy, explore some of Mount Macedon's finest with Mount Macedon Tours, where autumnul colours paint the landscape a golden hue.
The most popular destination is the Memorial Cross Reserve, which has a stunning view that stretches as far as the eye can see. If you wish to bypass the steep incline up the mountain, you can choose to park your car here and start your inspirational journey on foot. The clearly marked signs and easy-to-use paths will guide you along the way, even towards the rewarding Camels Hump track. Take note of the weather in advance as tracks can become muddied after storms. We recommend that you bring a bottle of water, and wear sturdy boots that can take you across varying terrain, preparing your calves for the egg cracking ahead.
If flora and fauna is your thing, follow the La Gerche Forest Walk just outside of Creswick. The extraordinary scent of the radiata pines will guide you through the forest, past 100-year-old plantings by forestry visionary John La Gerche. This one-hour walking loop is breathtakingly beautiful in autumn. It’s a great option for families and young explorers, with cute signage and markers dotted along the track. Afterwards, pop into Maze House, located just outside Creswick. Outdoor fun for all ages, it is especially spectacular during autumn.
For further family walking adventures, visit Jubilee Lake on the outskirts of neighbouring Daylesford, for a place to play, stay and say g’day to birdlife, wallabies and local critters. Meander around the lake circuit, taking in the vivid autumn colours before pumping some mineral water from the Jubilee Lake Mineral Spring. Extend your
walk and link up with the Lerderderg Track, which leads you into Daylesford.
Walkers and hikers may also be interested in exploring other fantastic options in the region, such as Lake Daylesford, Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, Conglomerate Gully Flora Reserve and the Malmsbury Reservoir Track
What are you waiting for? Go on, pull on the boots and put a pack on your back, it’s time to take a hike!
Nature explorers enjoy your visit. Tread lightly and take only memories, leave only footprints.
Make your memories last a lifetime with tangible bespoke pieces inspired by our region’s most unique and creative artisans. From paintings and ponchos to gin and jewellery, you’re bound to find the perfect memento of your trip to the Central Highlands to take home and cherish.
Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges is renowned for art and we possess an enviable list of galleries, visionaries and artists unique to the region. These include the iconic David Bromley of Bromley & Co in Daylesford and Tina Banitska, the owner of the magnificent Convent Gallery, nestled beside the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, which showcases over 100 artists at any one time on a two-month rotation. Bullarto Gallery features the works of painter and sculptor Phillip Edwards, while Hepburn Springs-based Radius Art Space features a rotating roster of exhibitions. It is also home to a makers’ store where local creatives showcase their wares.
Come in and peruse these stunning gallery spaces,
where you can choose from an array of paintings on various mediums, sculptures, prints, photography and glass blown works. Not only will you rejoice in a beautiful piece of artwork, you will also enjoy an investment that will hopefully appreciate over time.
If you’re looking for award-winning gin to savour, our myriad of distilleries are sure to impress. Pick up a local bottle from Daylesford Spirit, multi award-winning distiller, or enjoy a tasting flight or seasonal cocktail at Hepburn Distillery (also in Daylesford).
In Woodend, sip on Gindu’s superb botanicals range at their stylish new distillery door. Nearby, the gin produced at Big Tree Distillery is a true reflection of the
natural wonders of our region, while Mountain Distilling is an innovative and explorative spirit producer based in New Gisborne. In Kyneton, Animus Distillery offers premium small batch handcrafted artisan gin at their cellar door on Piper Street.
The gin bottles themselves are also stunning; some adorned with local artisans’ work or with brilliantly designed motifs, so you can continue to love them long after the last drop is poured.
Snuggle up this season with our region’s quintessential wool and alpaca wares from popular producers like Creswick Woollen Mills and Daylesford’s Alpaca Passion. From luxuriously soft throws and blankets, to
"Not only will you rejoice in a beautiful piece of artwork, you will also enjoy an investment that will hopefully appreciate over time".
intricately woven jumpers and stylish ponchos, these quality natural fibre goods are sure to be adored for a lifetime to come.
Want to replicate the aesthetic beauty of your favourite dining experience’s table setting? Our locally handcrafted and unique ceramics have been known to leave their mark (literally and figuratively) and the region is known to be home to many celebrated ceramicists. Pollen café in Kyneton is famed for its bánh mì and loved for its curation of delicate pottery, made by co-owner, Ruth Laird Spencer, of Fork Ceramics
World-renowned Wingnut & Co. in Trentham is magical in its simplicity, which masks a complex understanding of the craftsmanship of wheel-based pottery steeped
in Japanese tradition, married with sustainable practices like hand-dug clay sourced from country Victoria and off-cut timber ash used in glaze recipes.
Or why not create your own masterpiece to take home with you? Join one of the many and varied classes and workshops taking place across the region and get your creative juices flowing. Discover the art of printmaking at Agave Print Studio in Trentham or paint your own pet with Country Canvases in Malmsbury. Or in Kyneton, learn how to create your own leadlight or mosaic masterpiece with Leadlight by Ettore, or make your own jewellery masterpiece at The Old Auction House
Need something to put all your goodies in? Order yourself a gourmet box or regional grazing board from Daylesford Gourmet, not only will you get to feast on local produce, you’ll also receive a gorgeous souvenir calico tote to take home with you.
Bathe in mineral-rich waters, indulge in bespoke spa treatments, and unwind in a luxurious villa surrounded by bushland.
Reconnect with yourself through timeless therapeutic benefits of mineral bathing.
Established in 1895, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has been a source of traditional wellness for over a century.
When you sip on Hepburn Distillery’s awardwinning spirits, prepare to embark on a journey of sensory delight and unparalleled experiences.
Start with their magnificent Sloe Gin, which undergoes a year-long journey to perfection, vanishing from shelves within days of release. Sweet, sour, tart, and plummy –it's a true sensory delight. Available again each March, it's a pleasure to savour.
The team here take pride in being one of Australia's few distilleries crafting spirits from scratch. From their WorldGold-Medal vodka to their multiple-award-winning gins and moreish whiskey – all is lovingly handmade on-site, infused with care and attention to detail.
Open seven-days a week in the heart of Daylesford (just off Vincent Street), Hepburn Distillery welcomes
walk-in tastings. Drop in for a tasting flight of either gin or vodka, or choose your favourite gin and tonic.
And their cocktails? Simply sublime. We recommend the Secret Love Potion: a generous splash of Hepburn Distillery Gourmet Chocolate Gin, a touch of Chambord, a hint of sugar syrup, a pour of Pink Champoo and garnished with strawberries. Fabulous!
Fancy trying your own hand at whisky? Join one of Hepburn Distillery’s immersive workshops, led by their passionate Master Distiller, Basil. Dive into the world of whisky making, get your hands dirty and take home a bottle of your own creation – a perfect gift for the whisky aficionado in your life.
1 Gin Lane, Daylesford, Vic hepburndistillery.com info@hepburndistillery.com
Q hepburndistillery m 0407 790 043
We’re all familiar with pictures of a peloton snaking down a smooth tarmac road in the Tour de France, or of a mountain biker immersed in stunning forest trails. Alongside the familiar though, there is a new kid on the block in the cycling world, and it is taking the riding world by storm.
Gravel riding falls somewhere between road and mountain biking and it has taken off, for all sorts of good reasons. Be it quiet back roads, the right bike to take that turn you always wanted to, or the chance to explore scenic lanes and forest paths, gravel is a gift that keeps on giving.
We are possibly biased, but the rise of the gravel bike is great news for our part of the world, because the gravel riding options are excellent. It is no coincidence that events like the Dirty Pig & Whistle, starting and finishing in Creswick, have popped up in the last few years.
Here in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, you can start things off with a pre-ride coffee and treat at a French patisserie before riding off into an incredible oak forest. Then roll on through lush farmlands and into stunning messmate forests, taking in a lake or two along the way... an experience known as ‘gravel goodness’.
Stopping at one of our many villages for a crucial (and excellent) second coffee and fresh baked goods is a must. A wave to a tractor, a kangaroo or two, plus fellow riders, tops off a perfect day.
Those in the know are hesitant to let the cat out of the bag about just how good this region is for gravel riding. However, it would be wrong not to share the joy one feels when exploring our many trails. There are a plethora of fab options, but we thought we would start with a few suggested routes to kick things off, naturally with the all-important food and drink stops along the way.
First up, using Creswick as a base, there are some fantastic round-trip options. Equally important, there are great fuel stops before and after. Le Péché Gourmand
serves up tasty French treats, while Smokeytown Café, Meg’s Place and the Creswick Bakery are all top notch as well.
A popular route is the 80km version of the gravel route taken at the Dirty Pig & Whistle event (happening 1819 May 2024). Starting in Creswick, the route goes hard early, with an ascent of the well-known lung buster, Brackenbury Hill. It then takes a series of quiet, undulating farm roads to Clunes, where you can refuel with coffee and treats before turning back to Creswick. All up it’s 80km long, with a little over 600m of vertical ascent. Think rolling, hard pack gravel, small towns and bucolic scenes.
Famed for its mineral springs and day spas, it turns out the gravel riding is pretty darn good here too. We love
to start and finish at Cliffy’s Emporium, with a coffee in the morning and a refreshing ale (and tasty food to match) when we return.
Fellow rider (and CEO of Daylesford Macedon Tourism) Steve Wroe recommends a 30-ish km loop that he often does before work. You warm up by rolling through Daylesford township, before ascending Lake Road past
Jubilee Lake and onto the gravel roads and into the Wombat Forest. It’s long, steady climb, topping out at over 800m as you ride along beautiful farm roads and through the hamlet of Bullarto. Riding north, you’re back into the forest for a fun descent before popping out near Daylesford Cider and then back into Daylesford. Fit riders will knock this route off in 90 minutes, but it’s easy to extend to include Trentham, making it around 50km.
Woodend is another great place to start and finish. With a direct train service to Melbourne, and Mount Macedon as a backdrop, it ticks a lot of boxes. The Wombat Wanderer is a fantastic and relatively easy 25km trail. Warm up your legs on Mahoneys Road, then follow the ‘No Road’ signs to explore the quiet backroads into
the Wombat State Forest. You’ll be immersed in lush, shaded forest as you wind your way around these quiet gravel roads. There is quite a bit of undulation in the first 15kms, but the last 10km of largely downhill makes it all worthwhile. Post ride, Holgate Brewhouse is the natural way to celebrate and ‘re-hydrate’ after a great day on the dirt.
"A wave to a tractor, a kangaroo or two, plus fellow riders, tops off a perfect day".
If travelling with the family, the Federation Trail linking Lancefield and Romsey is a fantastic option. Travelling along a dedicated shared path for the majority of the ride, this 16km return route is ideal for older kids, or younger kids travelling in bike trailers or bike seats. As you leave Romsey’s main street, the trail becomes a well-formed granitic sand surface and the surroundings transform from classic Australian architecture to expanses of rolling farmland. Stop for a meal at the Lost Watering Hole in Lancefield, or enjoy a post-ride drink at The 1860 in Romsey.
So, there you have it; a totally unbiased look at why gravel riding is fabulous and our region is a perfect place to dive right in. See you out there.
For more information, visit our website or Strava page: ridedaylesfordmacedonranges.com.au strava.com/clubs/DMRCC
Dirty Pig & Whistle: pigandwhistle.cc
Photos (opposite page L-R): Gravel riding through Musk. Photography by Bec Rowlands. Above (L-R): Cliffy's Emporium Daylesford. Photography by Bec Rowlands. The Dirty Pig & Whistle event. Photography by Spurlo Style Photography
Recognised as the longest standing winter arts festival in Australia, the highly anticipated Woodend Winter Arts Festival (WWAF) returns this June, celebrating its 19th year over the King's Birthday long weekend.
Over four engaging and entertaining days, WWAF presents a dynamic program of music, and words and ideas events. World-class performers are joined by some of Australia’s brightest literary minds for a series of incredible performances and discussions – all within a relaxed and intimate village setting.
Over 100 artists will perform during the festival in various venues throughout the charming village of Woodend. From the incredible acoustics of St Ambrose Church, to the intimacy of the St Ambrose Hall next door, this is an event where you can witness the musical genius of artists who usually perform at major concert halls. Whether you are a classical music aficionado, or simply want to experience a different type of music, the program offers something for everyone.
The much-loved annual fireworks display kicks off the event, synchronised to classical music hits. Highlights of the music program include a lively performance by Southern Spanish guitarist Paco Lara, who will perform Flamenco of Southern Spain, accompanied by flamenco dancer Deya Giner. Jazz great Paul Grabowsky will showcase the piano across centuries, performing selections from his album Solo, while twice ARIAnominated Nat Bartsch will transport the audience into the realm of new Jazz with her award-winning ensemble.
London-based pianist Piers Lane will perform Chopin, Smetana and Mozart, while Woodend’s own Jacqueline Ogeil leads Accademia Arcadia’s performance of the Early Solo Concertos on the Cristofori piano. Australian tenor Daniel Thomson returns from Europe to perform Schubert Lieder with John O’Donnell, who will also conduct two performances of Bach’s mighty St John Passion with Ensemble Gombert and Accademia Arcadia.
The words and ideas program will deliver engaging debates and discussions on challenging contemporary issues. Expect to hear from literary greats such as Nobel Prize winner Peter Doherty and broadcaster/journalists Gideon Haigh, Elizabeth Finkel, George Megalogenis and Don Watson. Andy Ford will reveal his latest book, while ABC Radio presenter Robyn Williams will lead a fun and insightful discussion on Sex, Science and Singing with geneticist Jenny Graves.
Head to WWAF website to view the full program: woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
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With panoramic views of the Macedon Ranges landscape, including the imposing and iconic Hanging Rock, it’s easy to understand why legendary wine maker John Ellis OAM and his wife Ann chose this spot to establish their award-winning winery more than 42 years ago.
They were the new stars in Australia’s wine making arena. Ann is the daughter of wine legend Murray Tyrrell, while John was the first winemaker for South Australia’s Rosemount Estate.
Instead of playing it safe in South Australia, or in Ann’s home town in the Hunter Valley, the couple headed to Victoria to Dr Peter Tisdall’s newly established winery. John helped pioneer many ‘firsts’ in Australia, including cool climate chardonnay and cabernet merlot blend.
The couple were eager to spread their wings and establish their own winery, hence they made the move to the Macedon Ranges. It is here that John first produced cool climate sparkling wine, which was an immediate success (when launched in 1992). Now, more than 40 years on, their Hanging Rock Winery in Newham is revered as one of Australia's best small batch wineries.
John recognises what he and Ann have accomplished.
“When we bought the property, it was just a bare paddock. Looking back, we can see what we have achieved as a couple and as a family and I’m incredibly proud of that,” he said.
John has spent many years promoting the local wine and tourism industry through government advisory roles, executive boards and philanthropic endeavours and has played a key role in establishing a number of successful festivals locally, including Budburst – the Macedon Ranges wine region’s annual showcase of local small batch winemakers (held in mid-November).
His contributions to the wine industry and the wider tourism industry saw him honoured with a Medal of the Order of Australia at last year’s King's Birthday Honours.
“It has been a privilege over the years to help create the wine and tourism region we are proud of today.”
Then there’s the annual Art in the Vines sculpture exhibition where artists across Australia showcase their mesmerising artwork on the grounds of the winery. Thousands now include the exhibition as part of their yearly getaway to the region, where a stunning landscape plays host to locally crafted wine, art and beautiful local produce.
From a bare paddock to one of Australia’s best boutique wineries renowned for award winning cool climate wines, John credits Ann for being by his side for the entire journey and believes his proudest achievement is his children, Ruth and Rob, taking over the business.
“I often pinch myself knowing my children are continuing the business. It’s the greatest achievement to inspire your children to keep your legacy going. The next generation is sorted. It’s the most important outcome of them all.”
One iconic hospitality family. Two unique properties.
Why is it, that the older you get the quicker time passes? Especially in a world driven by busyness and its related stresses. I don’t think it’s going to change anytime soon, so it’s up to each of us to seek an antidote to help ourselves – that of rest and rejuvenation.
Society still hasn’t learnt the lessons post the pandemic of instilling these virtues into everyday life. More and more is crammed into every second, resulting in a feeling of overwhelm.
Yet our ability to tap into an antidote couldn’t be easier, with one located right on Melbourne’s doorstep. The Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region is famed as a destination for rejuvenation. Earlier this year, Daylesford was also named as one of the most welcoming places on earth – making it the ideal place to start the resting process.
Located on the Great Dividing Range the region’s elevation creates a cool climate with crisp clean air. Each season brings its own beautiful changes. I truly believe the region echoes New England in autumn, while touches of snow dust the countryside in winter.
Year round, mineral water (full of health benefits) trickles from natural springs dotted around the region. The Wombat State Forest and Macedon Regional Park provide numerous walks to connect oneself with nature. While our many hilltop villages, such as Woodend, Kyneton, Trentham, Daylesford and Creswick provide welcoming hospitality, boutique shopping and noteworthy eateries using produce grown locally in our rich chocolatey soil.
But how do we slow down and ensure we appreciate such natural wonders? We have become so accustomed to busyness that our brains are constantly in flight or fight mode. When was the last time you could sit and just ‘be’? To truly benefit from external influences in our natural environment we need to calm and still ourselves.
Specialist Brain Trainer, Perri Curtis (a seasonal visitor to the region and part of the Acre of Roses wellbeing team) recommends individual brain training to break the busyness cycle through ‘filtering and focusing.’
In summary, Perri notes that ‘our human brains receive 11 million bits of information every second. But our conscious minds can handle only 40 to 50 bits of information a second.’
No wonder our brains feel busy! So how do we filter out and focus on what's important and create a quieter less busy brain?
It turns out that our brains are naturally good at both filtering and focusing. We are literally designed this way. MIT neuroscientists have identified a brain circuit that helps us to do just that. It's controlled by the front of our brain, the prefrontal cortex, and filters out unwanted background noise and other distracting stimuli.
One of the functions of a neuron is to determine whether incoming messages should be filtered out or passed along. We filter out things constantly...like how our clothing or glasses feel, background noise, visuals that don’t interest us, etc.
Our brain also has a natural capacity to direct its focus... in other words to decide what patterns it's giving its attention to.
Our brains pattern finder is called the Reticular Activation System (RAS). And it can be trained to look out for what's already positive in our lives, ‘what's already all right’ vs ‘over thinking, intrusive repetitive or negative thoughts.’
Training the brain to selectively filter and focus creates a quieter mind, better focus and a more rested regenerated state. In short, it’s a key to Breaking Out The Busy Brain Cycle.
So, as the cooler weather settles in, take a little time to train your brain and plan a trip up our way. To help prepare yourself, Perri has gifted us a podcast session, talking through how to train your brain (scan the QR code below).
Quieten yourself and then immerse yourself in our wonderful region, we hope you leave feeling focused, calm and relaxed.
Scan the QR code to download our free podcast on 'Breaking out of the Busy Brain Cycle'.
CRESWICK WOOLLEN MILLS
Railway Pde, Creswick & Vincent St, Daylesford 1 800 338 837 @creswickwool creswickwool.com/collections/homewares-alpaca-throws
Utilising luxurious wool and alpaca fibres, Creswick has designed an exclusive natural collection of Australian Made throws. Wool blended with alpaca fibre offers superior softness and provides a high level of warmth. Unique thermal properties enable the release of heat in warm conditions while keeping you cosy during cooler months.
The silky soft touch and weightlessness are due to the partial hollowness of the alpaca fibre, making it one of the finest natural fibres.
Creswick Alpaca Herringbone Throws. Naturally breathable, hypoallergenic and the perfect style for all seasons.
SAVE $100 OFF IN-STORE OR ONLINE
range of spirits encapsulate the pristine environment, abundant natural ingredients, and rich cultural tapestry of the region. Rooted in a sustainable ethos, each creation is a harmonious blend of botanical excellence, capturing the very spirit of the Daylesford community and its natural surroundings.
Discover a sensory masterpiece with Daylesford Spirit Distillery’s newest offering, the Australian Dry ‘Bling Gin’. This is a blend designed to not only tantalise your taste buds, but to bring a visual experience like no other.
Daylesford Spirit’s award-winning range of gins are a symphony of meticulously crafted perfection. Each sip promises an exquisite blend of taste sensations, leaving you yearning for more.
More than a mere distillery, Daylesford Spirit embraces the essence of their namesake town. Drawing inspiration from the uniqueness and charm of Daylesford, their
With this ethos in mind, all spirits are crafted using ingredients sourced locally. The guiding principle at Daylesford Spirit is to reduce their environmental impact, while producing top-tier spirits that authentically embody the essence and character of the Daylesford region.
You are invited to step into the world of this awardwinning distillery. Immerse yourself in the Daylesford Spirit, an elixir that enchants the senses with unparalleled refinement in every sip. Visitors are welcome at their Mount Franklin based cellar door (by appointment), where they can enjoy a tasting, paired with tasty Long Paddock Cheese
Be prepared to embark on a journey of elegance and indulgence, where every drop tells a story of craftsmanship, community, and the beauty that is Daylesford Spirit.
daylesfordspirit.com.au
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Let's just put it out there— calling any alcohol ‘healthy’ is a stretch. But that doesn't mean there's absolutely no place for the occasional drink in a healthy lifestyle.
Whisky is a dark-grain alcohol made all over the world. It was first developed in medieval Scotland and Ireland. In Gaelic, the name loosely translates to ‘water of life.’ In Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges, the abundance of natural spring water has seen a growing trend for distilling this ‘water of life.’
In 16th-century Scotland, pharmacists sold whisky as a tonic to slow ageing, cure congestion and relieve joint pain. During the 19th century, doctors prescribed whisky to treat pneumonia, high blood pressure and tuberculosis. Whisky is a source of phosphorus, thiamine (vitamin B1), zinc, iron and niacin (vitamin B3). It also contains ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in berries. I’m sold!
It’s well documented, however, that high amounts of alcohol can lead to some serious health issues. Whisky’s potential benefits are associated with its low to moderate consumption. No more than one or two drams.
Today, whisky is available by different names based on its production — like single malt, scotch, bourbon and rye. We are blessed to have some great varietals in this region that are worth checking out. Some you can get now, others you will need to wait for.
In Daylesford, there is Daylesford Spirit, who have just started a whisky barrelling program and recently won gold at the Melbourne Royal Australian Distilled Spirits Awards (for their Barrel Aged Shiraz Gin). Their whisky barrelling program is a great initiative in which you get to make your own whisky.
Mountain Distilling in New Gisborne have a nice drop called Red Gum malt that doesn’t use the traditional ageing methods of whisky. Its aromas of caramel, campfire and chocolate are very pleasing on the nose. Peat comes through well on the palate and balances the flavours of prunes, spice and pear, brightened by a hint of
citrus. Unlike traditional methods, this drop is aged in red gum rather than oak.
Then there is Terra Australis Distillery in Daylesford. They have several tawny spirits to choose from. Carefully selected eight-year-old tawny is aged in spirit barrels creating maximum flavour. With no added sugar, they are light and easy to drink, offering unique characteristics and experiences with every sip. There is a choice of Tawny Malt Whisky, American Bourbon, Double Pot Still Whisky and Smoked Malt Whisky Tawny.
At Hepburn Distillery, Daylesford, whisky has been made from scratch in-house using peated barley and matured in a small oak cask for over three years. This single batch limited release is a blended malt with a full flavour of light sweet, peat and biscuit-toffee notes. It has a rich caramel colour and is very smooth on the palette.
If you are looking to discover some great new whisky tastes, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges is the place to go. Stock up on some quality spirits, bypass the medicine cabinet and drink this water of life in moderation. Sláinte!
BOATHOUSE DAYLESFORD
2 Leggatt Street, Daylesford +61 3 5348 2199 @boathouse_daylesford boathousedaylesford.com.au
MUST TRY
the Boathouse Restaurant beckons with its enchanting views and refined culinary delights.
Whether it’s a winter rendezvous by the fireplace or a summer soirée on the outdoor deck, every moment promises to be enveloped in warmth and elegance. Join us at the Boathouse where every bite tells a story and every moment is savoured in style.
Lunch – Wednesday to Sunday
Dinner – Thursday to Saturday
BOOK NOW: boathousedaylesford.com.au/booking-reservations
Autumn truly is one of the best times to visit the Macedon Ranges, as the region puts on its annual display of stunning autumn colours. The Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival celebrates this, plus much more from Friday 5 to Sunday 28 April, across nine colourful, historic villages.
Whether it’s food, tipple trails, markets, music, autumn picnic locations, places to stay or the Treasure Trail that piques your interest, there are plenty of reasons to unearth autumn in the Macedon Ranges.
Here’s a little taste of what’s happening:
Autumn Festival Treasure Trail (new for 2024)
Follow the new Autumn Festival Treasure Trail to discover eight stunning locations across the Macedon Ranges where you can picnic under the autumn leaves. Pick up your map from the Festival Hub at the Woodend Visitor Centre and visit all eight Treasure Trail locations, discovering clues along the way to solve the puzzle.
Live and Local in Country Halls (new for 2024)
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during April, over twenty artists will perform at community halls throughout the Macedon Ranges. Enjoy a cheeky tipple, great tunes and local food whilst appreciating uniquely vintage performance spaces. Headliners include Tim Rogers; The Vintage Blues Machine; The Martini Set; Jarrod Shaw; and Shout Out to the Girls.
Autumn Pie and Tart Trail
Could this be Australia’s largest Pie Trail? Over 40 delicious pies and tarts feature on the mouth-watering Autumn Pie and Tart Trail. From classic country bakeries to cellar doors, choose from options such as a beef brisket pie, pear tarte tan, chocolate pecan tart, mushroom stroganoff and more
Edgy Veg Trail
Celebrate local food innovation, mouth-watering regional flavours and meals that give back to the planet
on the Edgy Veg Trail. Edgy cafes and restaurants in the Macedon Ranges are pulling out all stops to create innovative plant-based dishes to wow your taste-buds during the Autumn Festival.
Farmers Markets
Drop into a farmers’ market and be rewarded with tasty regional specialities. Gather up goodies for a picnic, then hit a scenic spot on the Autumn Treasure Trail. Options include, Woodend Farmers’ Market (6 April); Kyneton Farmers’ Market (13 April); Riddells Creek Farmers’ Market (20 April); Malmsbury Farmers’ Market (21 April) and Lancefield & District Farmers’ Market (27 April).
Wander Woodend Trail
Wander around Woodend, discovering an exciting collection of new venues as you do. Enjoy local drops at Woodend Cellar & Bar and 600 Above, or try awardwinning gin at the Gindu Distillery door. Finish off with a refreshing beer at the Victoria Hotel or try a tasting paddle at Holgate Brewhouse
Kyneton Quaff Trail
Spend a day exploring the food and drink delights of Kyneton. Sip on local drops, tuck into delicious food and admire the historic streetscape along the way. This trail visits Miss M’s Lounge, Botanik, Piper Street Wine Company, Musk Lane Wine, Kyneton Hotel and The Albion Hotel.
Lancefield Triple Tipple Tour
The Lancefield Triple Tipple Tour takes in three of Lancefield’s finest venues – the Lancefield Lodge, Lancefield Hotel and the Lost Watering Hole. From handcrafted cocktails to signature beers, this tour offers a variety of delicious drinks for you to savour.
Country Canvases Painting Workshops (6, 7, 14 & 27 April) Join local artist Tia Alyse for a 4-hour guided painting class and unleash in beautiful Malmsbury. All skill levels are welcome as you work on a canvas that has been pre-sketched by Tia. Each class will focus on
a different creature, options include a robin, mini bee, fox and squirrel.
Creatures of the Night (11, 18 & 24 April)
Join the Macedon Ranges Shire Council Environment team for an exciting night walk and learn about the nocturnal creatures living in the Macedon Ranges. Animals that may be observed include common ringtail and brushtail possum, koala and even the very rare brush-tailed phascogale.
Malmsbury Village Fayre (Sunday 28 April)
Held in the Botanical Gardens of the historical town of Malmsbury, the 23rd Malmsbury Village Fayre promises a fun day out for all. Enjoy a lively music program and plenty of fun for the kids, along with over 50 stalls featuring regionally produced arts, crafts and products.
Run the Rock (Saturday 20 April)
Take in the stunning natural scenery of Hanging Rock as you challenge yourself to a 22km, 13.5km, 5km (or 2km kids) run. A fun day out for the whole family at one of Victoria’s most iconic natural attractions.
View the full list of events taking place at visitmacedonranges.com/autumn-festival
As the cooler weather approaches, cosy cottages beckon. Thanks to the legacy of the gold rush and pioneering farmers, our region is home to charming and historic cottages. Many of these have been lovingly restored and can be booked for a cosy holiday. Here’s a selection of the best.
Photos: 1. Little Wren Cottage 2. The Shopkeeper's Quarters (photography by Marnie Hawson) 3. Paradise Valley Cottage 4. Soma House 5. The Grey Goose 6. Ellerslie Cottage 7. The Dairy 8. Cottage 4A 9. Illoura 10. The Barn (photography by Chloe Smith)
The Barn is a stylishly renovated, one-bedroom cottage in Woodend, featuring soaring cathedral ceilings and spacious living areas. A delightful wood fire invites you to linger inside on cold wintry days, while the lush, private courtyard invites you to venture outside in warmer months. thebarnwoodend.com.au
Built 70 years ago, Little Wren has been renovated into a beautiful one-bedroom cottage surrounded by rolling hills and eucalypts. This cosy cottage features a log fire and beautiful French doors that open onto a verandah and hundreds of acres of countryside. Relax in the hammock, enjoy a barbeque, or get cosy by the firepit. littlewren.au
Paradise Valley Cottage is a charming threebedroom country cottage, surrounded by bushland in Spring Hill. A perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort make it an ideal getaway. Enjoy glorious sunrises and birdsong from the deck as you sip your morning coffee, or relax with a glass of wine as the sun sets behind the private lake and surrounding bushland. relaxholidayrentals.com.au
Nestled just a stone’s throw from the heart of Trentham, Soma House is a three-bedroom cottage that expertly blends old-world charm with modern comforts. Curl up with a book by the crackling fire, enjoy a glass of local wine in the alfresco area, or admire the joyful seasonal colours in the picket-fenced garden. discoverdaylesford.com/soma-house
This gorgeous one-bedroom cottage encapsulates all that is Daylesford. Beautifully decorated, Cottage 4A welcomes you from the moment you walk in the door. Enjoy gorgeous views from each room, relax by the cosy gas log fire, make the most of the large spa bath or gaze into the wilderness in the lush garden. daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/ accommodation/cottage-4a
Illoura is a dreamy two-bedroom cottage, located an easy walk from Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa in Hepburn Springs. Surrounded by a delightful garden, with multiple seating and dining areas, this is an idyllic home away from home. Be sure to book in advance, it is one of Dayget’s most sought after properties.
dayget.com.au/accommodation/illoura
Nestled amid lush foliage, The Grey Goose in Hepburn Springs exudes refined beauty with its vintage-inspired interiors. This recently refurbished, three-bedroom cottage offers a cosy, yet light-filled retreat. Antique paintings, rich wooden furniture and dark floors lend the space contemporary elegance with a vintage twist. thehousesdaylesford.com/accommodation/ the-grey-goose
Built in Castlemaine in 1856, at the height of the gold rush, The Dairy served as a produce storing facility for the neighbouring farmhouse, Green Gables. Brimming with character 168 years later, The Dairy has been lovingly restored by the current owners, inviting guests to be transported to a bygone era.
castlemaineaccom.com.au/the-dairy
THE SHOPKEEPER’S QUARTERS, MALDON
Maintaining its original character, The Shopkeeper’s Quarters in Maldon has undergone a labour-of-love restoration. This historic twobedroom cottage has a definite vintage vibe, with French linen sheets and locally-sourced provisions. Fire up the wood-fuelled heater and a cosy getaway at Shopkeeper’s is complete. maldongetaways.com.au
ELLERSLIE COTTAGE, GLENHOPE
Ellerslie Cottage is a charming, one-bedroom stone cottage located on a former sheep farm in Glenhope, (about 15 minutes from Kyneton) You’ll feel a world away in this rustic, yet cosy cottage, which features stylish interiors and an open fire, along with a rock-walled garden. flophouse.com.au/ellerslie-cottage
16 BEERS ON TAP
GIN & SPIRIT FLOATS
OUTDOOR DECK
PET FRIENDLY
Relax and kick back in our Taproom & Brewery. The delightful taste of our awardwinning handcrafted brews pairs perfectly with the peaceful ambience of Hepburn Springs.
0458 151 061
12 Forest Ave, Hepburn Springs VIC hepburnspringsbrewingco.com.au
Opportunity
or all three
Currently a magnificent sculpture park of three adjoining 3 bedroom residences. All on separate titles that embody the visionary touch of Stuart Purves, Principal of Australian Galleries. Located a short distance from culinary award winning destination Daylesford.
belleproperty.com
belleproperty.com
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belleproperty.com
belleproperty.com
We (@daylesfordmacedonranges) love it when our visitors tag and share images of their explorations around our region. We've hand selected some of our favourite tagged images. So, make sure you tag #daylesfordmacedonlife when posting your pics on Instagram for your chance to be featured in the next edition of Daylesford Macedon Life magazine.
Enjoy three days of dance and music in the central gold rush town of Creswick. From international stars to local newcomers, a wide range of performers will entertain you. Participate in workshops in singing, dancing and playing. It all happens on the streets of Creswick. Kids under 12 years of age are free.
WHEN: 5 -7 April
WHERE: Creswick
INFO: cresfest.com.au
The festival presents music and literary events featuring over 70 artists in various venues throughout Woodend showcasing renowned performers and speakers from Australia and overseas. The annual fireworks display kicks off the event, synchronised to much-loved classical music hits.
WHEN: 7 - 10 June
WHERE: Woodend
INFO: woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au
Make sure you keep an eye on our website daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au and on our Facebook page @daylesfordmacedonranges as event details may change.
With two days of events and racing amongst the picturesque towns, fields, farms and forests of Creswick and Clunes, The Dirty Pig & Whistle celebrates the best of the region’s gravel roads and laneways, produce and people. Experience actionpacked Cyclo-Cross racing, and some of the region’s best gravel course options.
WHEN: 18 - 19 May
WHERE: Creswick
INFO: pigandwhistle.cc
A cinematic winter feast held annually at Castlemaine's iconic Theatre Royal. Featuring a diverse mix of engaging stories about real people, insightful explorations, significant issues and fascinating journeys. Attendees are invited to dive into both familiar and unfamiliar territory at this year’s 10th-anniversary edition.
WHEN: 14 - 16 June
WHERE: Castlemaine
INFO: cdocff.com.au
WINTER SOUNDS
Winter Sounds is a weekend of intimate performances taking place across Daylesford and the surrounding hills. From gold-rush-era halls to historic churches, art deco theatres and heritage rail cars, the most unique and beautiful spaces in the region will light up with performances by some of Australia’s finest artists.
WHEN: 15 - 18 August
WHERE: Daylesford
INFO: wintersounds.com.au
If you're eager to unleash your creativity, look no further than Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges. This stunning area in Victoria provides a plethora of workshops and experiences tailored to various creative pursuits. Whether you're keen on a healing experience with horses or foraging for food in our abundant forests, you'll find ample inspiration here. Remember to secure your spot early – these experiences tend to fill up fast!
HEALING WITH HORSES AND NOURISHING THE INNER CHILD RETREAT
From $1,900pp / April 19 / heartofthehorse.com.au
CHESTNUT FORAGE & CHESTNUT PAPPARDELLE LUNCH
$150.00 / April 21 / villagedreaming.com.au
KOKEDAMA WORKSHOP
$135PP / May 25 / theoldauctionhouse.com.au
CREATURES OF THE NIGHT
FREE / April 11, 18 + 24 / visitmacedonranges.com/events
Discover more at: daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au/workshops-experiences
Daylesford’s most iconic building offers a truly divine experience
Art Gallery I Café I Museum
Chapel | Wedding Venue
Six Acres of Gardens
Planning a wedding doesn't have to be a grand affair with a long guest list and extravagant expenses. In fact, there's something quite appealing about an intimate and simple event, especially when set against the backdrop of stunning locations in our region. Here’s a selection of a few of the many venues you have to choose from.
Sault, just outside Daylesford in Sailors Falls, offers a serene and romantic setting for couples seeking a small and intimate wedding celebration. With its cute wedding chapel, tranquil lakeside views and elegant dining spaces, Sault provides the perfect backdrop for exchanging vows with a select group of loved ones. Whether you envision an outdoor ceremony amidst blooming lavender or a wonderful dinner in their restaurant, Sault's attention to detail and personalised service ensures a memorable experience for all.
Quirindi Stables is a beautiful country venue just outside Daylesford. Surrounded by picturesque views, including leafy trees and sprawling paddocks, it sets the scene for unforgettable moments with loved ones. Ideal for intimate affairs or larger groups, the timeless charm of the original shedding, complete with flagstone floors and sparkling chandeliers, offers character-filled spaces for celebrations big or small.
Cadella Park exudes rustic charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal venue for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and celebrate their love in a peaceful countryside setting. Located north of Woodend, the original 1845 buildings have a distinctly European feel, surrounded by serene farmland, meticulously trimmed hedges and elegant post-and-
rail wooden fences. Cadella Park offers a secluded and intimate atmosphere perfect for exchanging vows and creating lasting memories with close friends and family.
Paramoor Winery is nestled within 43 acres of stunning Macedon Ranges landscape. Receptions are held within the authentic Clydesdale barn, which has a distinctly vintage feel and is ideal for small (or larger) groups. Guests can stay on-site in the quaint yet modern cottage. Discover the perfect fusion of historical charm and contemporary amenities in this tranquil rural haven. With its award-winning wines, Paramoor Winery provides the perfect setting for couples seeking a romantic and intimate wedding experience.
Whether you're dreaming of a cosy gathering with close family and friends or a romantic elopement in a serene countryside setting there is a venue to suit here, in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges.
For further wedding inspiration go to daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au/weddings
Photo: Cadella Park. Photography by Georgia VerrellsGISBORNE - Southern Cross Station to Gisborne Station (45 min)
BACCHUS MARSH - Southern Cross Station to Bacchus Marsh Station (50 min)
MACEDON - Southern Cross Station to Macedon Station (55 min)
LANCEFIELD - Southern Cross Station to Sunbury Station, coach from Brook Street Sunbury to High Street, Lancefield (1 hr 5 min)
WOODEND - Southern Cross Station to Woodend Station (1 hr)
KYNETON - Southern Cross Station to Kyneton Station (1 hr 5 min)
CASTLEMAINE - Southern Cross Station to Castlemaine Station (1 hr 25 min)
TRENTHAM - Southern Cross Station to Woodend Station, coach to Market Street, Trentham (1 hr 30 min)
CRESWICK
DAYLESFORD
This delicious, yet simple cake has been shared with us by sisters Maria and Eva Konecsny, founders of the beloved Gewürzhaus spice stores. It comes from their new book Kindred. Maria and Eva know that spices have the power to transform our everyday cooking. They also believe that cooking to feed our kin can be a deeply nourishing and connective force in our lives.
Next time you are in Daylesford, pick up these spices, or choose from hundreds more at the new Gewürzhaus store in the heart of Vincent Street.
INGREDIENTS:
• 150g salted butter, at room temperature, plus 30g melted butter
• 150g white sugar
• 3 eggs
• 3 tsp ground cassia*
• ¼ tsp ground cloves*
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg*
• 1 tsp dried rose petals, crushed by rubbing between your fingertips*
• 150g (1 cup) self-raising flour
• 75g (¾ cup) ground almonds
• 1–2 tbsp full-cream milk, if needed
• 4–5 small to medium apples
• 2–3 tsp icing sugar
• ice cream, cream or custard, to serve
*SPICE SHORTCUTS: use 4½ tsp Gewürzhaus Apple Cake Spice
GEWÜRZHAUS, 47 Vincent Street, Daylesford gewurzhaus.com.au Q @pot_and_deckel @gewurzhaus
METHOD:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C fan-forced. Grease and flour a 23 cm round springform cake tin and tap out the excess flour.
2. Using electric beaters, cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl for about 5 minutes, then add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Once combined, add the spices and rose petals and beat thoroughly for a few minutes.
3. Sift in the flour and add the ground almonds, then beat until combined. The batter should be quite firm. However, if it is too stiff, you may need to add a few tablespoons of milk to loosen it. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared tin.
4. Peel the apples, cut them in half and remove the cores. With their flat-sides down, cut slits a few millimetres apart into each apple half, stopping just shy of the centre. Take care not to cut right through.
5. Place the apple halves, slit-side up, in a circle around the edge of the cake, with one in the middle, and gently press them 5 mm into the batter. Brush the apple with some of the melted butter and bake for about 30 minutes.
6. Remove the cake from the oven and brush with the remaining melted butter, then bake for a further 10–15 minutes, until golden brown. Insert a wooden skewer into the centre of the cake and if it comes out clean, the cake is cooked.
7. Cool in the tin for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. When the cake is cold, shake the icing sugar over it with a sieve.
8. The cake is best served with ice cream, cream or custard. It will keep for one week in an airtight container stored in a cool place.
COOK’S NOTES: To make this gluten free, replace the flour with buckwheat flour and add 2–3 tsp gluten-free baking powder.
Hit the open road and into the loving embrace of Mother Nature. Hike, climb, crawl (or drive, we won’t judge) your way to the top. The view will take your breath away in more ways than one.
