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Small group sessions and retreats are our specialty — Image credit: Heart of the Horser

Natural Attractions

Heart of the Horse

At Heart of the Horse, they offer heart-led healing experiences through connection with horses in the most beautiful peaceful natural setting in Drummond North in Central Victoria. Guests can enjoy individual two hour sessions, small group experiences curated to your requirements, and unique immersive wellness retreats designed to support relaxation, self-discovery, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth. Currently Heart of the Horse is the only residential healing retreat with horses in Australia. Individual and small group sessions can be booked directly via email. One, three and five-day retreats are available to book online through the Whats On calendar on the front page of the Heart of the Horse website. Heart of the Horse is on the outskirts of Malmsbury and 20 minutes from many wonderful towns in Victoria's Heartland - Daylesford, Kyneton and Castlemaine.

Drummond North VIC

0.0 km away

Art on Piper in Kyneton Central Victoria

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art on Piper Gallery

Art on Piper is a not-for-profit art collective based in the touristy art hub of Piper Street in Kyneton. This picturesque central Victorian town is only a one-hour drive (85 kilometres) from Melbourne's Central Business District. The gallery consists of a dynamic group of artists showcasing a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, photography, sculpture, mosaic, glass, ceramics, origami, timber, textiles and many styles of jewellery and cards. While on duty on a roster basis, each member is happy to chat about how they create their works, as most will be making their craft on the day, utilising their tools of the trade. Artists can be commissioned to customise your special requirements based upon samples. Every month the talented artists contribute their interpretations of a new theme for the front window display expanding the impact and possibilities, sometimes linked to the town or area and other times with strong parameters. A lovely light-filled guest room expands the offerings and interest for visitors and locals alike, with exhibitions featuring artists from outside of the region, bringing in a wider range of techniques and products.

Kyneton VIC

11 km away

Collected Interiors at Kabinett in Kyneton

Shopping and Markets

Kabinett Kyneton

Kabinett is a boutique department store situated inside the Royal George Hotel- a heritage listed two story blue stone converted pub first built in 1852. Kabinett is originally known for its one-of-a-kind industrial vintage furniture. The range has grown to include a curated range of homewares, books, as well as jewelry and niche fragrances. Everything is hand-picked and sourced from small-scale producers around the globe. Kabinett is an inspirational destination for anyone who seeks the unexpected. Located on the second floor of the building is Botanik- a niche cocktail bar and liquor store specialising in Vermouth and Amari from both Australia and the rest of the world. Here customers can enjoy a cocktail and get lost in conversations about the craft of distilling and mixing botanic ingredients.

Kyneton VIC

12 km away

Maiaveda Holistic Health Retreat and Spa

Spas and Retreats

Maiaveda Holistic Health Retreat and Spa

Maiaveda is a boutique holistic health retreat and spa. In the heart of Kyneton, experience authentic Ayurvedic spa therapies - an ancient and holistic healing system. Leave feeling honoured and fully rejuvenated. The Maiaveda experience has been designed keeping in mind the individual’s desire to relax, rebalance and revitalise. Let us cocoon you within an oasis, a peaceful place where you can find sustenance – calm, small, sacred and nurturing. Maiaveda retreats have been developed to cater to those that seek an immersive experience to re-balance and recharge. With the attentive care of their holistic specialists, you will emerge refreshed and in harmony. They know that spa lovers will relish the opportunity to delve into the bliss of our therapies, and to this end, they invite you to consult with them directly to create your own combinations of spa ritual packages that fulfil your ultimate healing experience. Allow them the opportunity to be your personal Wellness Concierge, let them help you create a Personalised Wellness Journey with them so that you can follow your own desires to receive customised therapies to support your unique needs and goals.

Kyneton VIC

12 km away

Come exolore our two gallerys of emerging Victorian artists

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Old Auction House Gallery

Nestled in the middle of Kyneton, which is renowned as the artistic hub of the Macedon Ranges, you will find two contemporary art galleries that have a constant rotation of emerging and mid-career artists. The Old Auction House Gallery has quickly become known for its non-traditional shows, as well as for its relaxed atmosphere and country charm. Housed in a 130-year-old building that has been transformed into an creative hub, the galleries truly come alive when all the surrounding studios are buzzing with artists and students. The exhibitions range from group shows by artisan guilds such as Buttlejorrk and the Glass Artists Support Program as well as hosting the Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival's Art Prize and Queerthentic Regional LGBTQIA+ Art Prize, through to solo exhibitions by mid-career Australian artists and curated themed group shows of emerging artists. While the gallery does exhibit many traditional exhibitions from abstract paintings to landscape photography, the atmosphere of the space encourages many shows that straddle the line of Fine Art vs Craft. They vehemently believe that high-quality craft deserves a space to be seen and thrive in the art scene and are proud to regularly have the opportunity to exhibit incredible examples of this genre. From costuming, ceramics, weaving to found assemblage, glass and jewellery, you never know what you will discover in The Old Auction House Gallery.

Kyneton VIC

12 km away

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

National Parks and Reserves

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Explore the Victorian Goldrush at Castlemaine Diggings Heritage Park, in the heart of central Victoria's goldfields. This unique park is filled with reminders of the 1850s, where abandoned mines, gullies and settlements still lie hidden among shady Box-Ironbark woodlands. The rush began in July 1851 and soon attracted tens of thousands of hopeful diggers. Within a year, Castlemaine was the world's richest shallow alluvial goldfield, with up to 60,000 people on the diggings. Today, the park lets you experience this golden past, from puddling machines and mine sites to historic house remains. Take a scenic drive through rolling hills, eroded gullies and historic townships, or explore the park on foot or by bike. Gentle riverside walks along the Loddon River are perfect for families, while the Goldfields Track offers a challenge for keen hikers and mountain bikers. Pack a picnic and relax at Vaughan Mineral Springs, where you'll find barbecues, shelters and grassy areas. Head to Kalimna Point for views from its forested ridgeline. For nature lovers, Box-Ironbark woodlands are alive with birdlife, from local favourites to migratory species. Popular birdwatching spots include Eureka Reef, Vaughan Springs and Glenluce Spring. Park conditions can change. Before visiting, check the park page on the Parks Victoria website for updates and review bushfire safety information. For fire danger ratings and Total Fire Bans, visit the Emergency Vic website.

Chewton VIC

16 km away

Lalgambuk Mount Franklin edit — Image credit: Hepburn Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Lalgambuk Mount Franklin

Lalgambuk Mount Franklin is an extinct volcano situated 15 minutes' drive north of Daylesford. It's of special significant to the Djaara people and is jointly managed by Parks Victoria and Dja Dja Wurrung as part of Hepburn Regional Park. It's a truly unique spot to visit for the day or stay overnight. The crater has been designated a free camping area and features a new communal shelter, seating area, and toilets. Note that there is no potable water available, and water for handwashing is only provided seasonally. There are a number of permanent fireplaces and picnic tables. Campfires are only permitted in steel fireplaces, so you may want to bring a portable firepit during peak periods to avoid disappointment. You must also bring your own firewood. Fire restrictions apply here when they are force in the surrounding region. Lalgambuk is a beautiful spot to relax and immerse yourself in the array of seasonal colour on display. For more active visitors, the 1.7 kilometre Summit Loop walk is a fabulous experience. It will take you right around the crater rim, where you'll catch glimpses of the wider landscape between the towering conifers.

Mount Franklin VIC

18 km away

Tribe Castlemaine — Image credit: Angela Rosemann

Shopping and Markets

Tribe Castlemaine

Tribe is a natural, sustainable, ethical and inspiring emporium, filled with handmade wares from local and overseas artisan makers. From jewellery to homewares, botanical skincare to natural playthings and an array of crafting tools and materials. A nurturing, slow shopping experience connecting you to nature and creativity. Tribe, the perfect gift and so much more.

Castlemaine VIC

18 km away

Boorp Boorp Boondyil Exhibition View — Image credit: Mount Alexander Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Boorp Boorp Boondyil Exhibition

An interactive space to learn about the Dja Dja Wurrung history of the area. Boorp Boorp Boondyil (passing knowledge to our children) invites people to share in Jaara stories and teachings, one of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures. This permanent cultural exhibition, located in the Castlemaine Market Building, will take you on a journey of learning about Jaara culture and connection with Country. Experience a virtual Welcome to Country ceremony. Get interactive and discover Dja Dja Wurrung language and Jaara stories and teachings. Connect with nature and learn about bush foods, medicine, waterways and weavings.

Castlemaine VIC

18 km away

Castlemaine Art Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Castlemaine Art Museum

Founded in 1913, the Castlemaine Art Museum has a unique collection of Australian art, First Nations cultural material and historical artefacts reflecting the early history of the region. Located on Dja Dja Wurrung Country in the foothills of Liyanganyuk Banyul, Castlemaine Art Museum (CAM) is a leading regional institution in the sphere of bold curation, bringing art and objects from the past and present into multilayered conversations, creating a dynamic, inclusive platform for First Nations and contemporary voices, community connections, reflections and ideas.

Castlemaine VIC

19 km away

Trentham Falls — Image credit: Hepburn Spa Pavillions

Natural Attractions

Trentham Falls

Trentham Falls is situated within the traditional Country of the Dja Dja Wurrung People. It's one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Central Victoria and a must-see when you're visiting Trentham or Daylesford. It's a very popular destination in winter and spring, when the falls show their true power and presence. Trentham Falls is the highest single drop of any waterfall in Central Victoria. Plunging more than 32 metres down a basalt cliff, it has formed a ravine several hundred metres long. Picnic tables and fire pits are available for a barbeque or picnic under the shade of the tree canopy. If you're planning to use the fire pit, you will need to bring your own wood. Dogs are welcome, but please keep them on a lead. As waterfalls are within a natural environment, you may encounter hazards. Please read site signage carefully and remain on the formed walking tracks.

Trentham VIC

19 km away

Michael Wolfe Studio

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Michael Wolfe Studio

You're invited to visit the beautiful studio, gallery and garden of award-winning and nationally renown painter, printmaker and photographer, Michael Wolfe. Michael's paintings seek to embody an enigmatic energy, blending gesture, improvisation and vigour to capture the raw essence of nature. Working with expressive brushwork and dynamic compositions to evoke the rhythms of the land, where chaos and order coexist harmoniously. Inspired by the rolling hills and granite outcrops of Djaara country in Central Victoria, he's seeking to infuse his work with textures and colour, creating landscapes that feel alive and ever-changing. This intuitive approach to painting reflects nature's unpredictable beauty, inviting viewers into a world shaped by movement and emotion. Looking for each piece to resonate with spontaneity, making his art both immersive and evocative.

Castlemaine VIC

19 km away

Front of Buda Historic Home — Image credit: Buda Historic Home and Garden

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Buda Historic Home and Garden Castlemaine

Nestled in the heart of Castlemaine, Central Victoria, Buda is an authentic Goldfields villa house and garden. Named after Budapest by its Hungarian owner, Ernest Leviny, this historic home was the heart of the creative Leviny family for an incredible 118 years. Today, Buda remains a Museums Australia accredited museum, showcasing an extraordinary intact collection of furniture, artwork, and personal belongings. Visitors are invited to step into another era as they explore the historic house, beautifully preserved with evidence of the arts and crafts style that flourished under the care of the Leviny daughters. The house brims with handcrafted items, metalwork light fittings, and embroidered soft furnishings, a testament to the family's artistic legacy. Outside, Buda's three-acre heritage garden awaits, featuring original plantings and structures such as the bird aviary, tennis pavilion, and grape pergola. Unlike a typical display garden, Buda's garden is a living testament to the Leviny family's aspirations and the evolving climate of Central Victoria. With each season, the garden transforms, offering autumn's rich foliage, winter's structural beauty, spring's vibrant blooms, and summer's shady retreats. Buda is open for self-guided tours daily from 12:00pm–4:00pm, with guided tours and catering available for groups by prior appointment. The Giftshop features unique items inspired by original Leviny designs, while the Plant Nursery offers heritage and drought-hardy plants, including specimens propagated from Buda's own garden.

Castlemaine VIC

19 km away

Goldfields Explorer - Steam Train — Image credit: Victorian Goldfields Railway

Entertainment Venues

Victorian Goldfields Railway

Victorian Goldfields Railway is an authentic volunteer run steam railway linking historic gold mining towns of Castlemaine and Maldon in Central Victoria. Family fun - take the kids for a memorable day out. Watch the world go by from your family compartment as the steam train puffs up the hills. First Class - for a touch of class step back in time to an era of elegance when the journey was as important as the destination. Ride on the end viewing platform on the parlour car. Enjoy a drink from the fully stocked bar. Catch the train for a return trip from Castlemaine or Maldon stations. Castlemaine is 90 minutes from Melbourne by car on the Calder Freeway. For a wonderful day out, leave the car behind and use your Myki to catch the V/Line train from Melbourne to Castlemaine where you simply change platforms to catch the steam train. After a leisurely 45 minute train ride you have time in historic Maldon to enjoy lunch at a pub or cafe and then relax on the train (maybe enjoying a drink from the bar in first-class) back to Castlemaine. Trains run Sundays, Fridays and school holiday Saturdays. Visit the website for more information.

Castlemaine VIC

19 km away

Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar

Shopping and Markets

Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar

The Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar — 2,500 square metres that plays host to multitudinous stallholders offering a diverse and eclectic edit of vintage magnificence. Plus, there is a smitter-smattering of central Victorian cleverness and handmade newness. So have a browse and you just may find that exact thing you weren’t looking for. The Bazaar is part of The Mill, Castlemaine’s happy place. Opposite the Botanical Gardens, the site of the old Castlemaine Woollen Mill has been rejuvenated and is now a retail and leisure destination go-to zone for locals and visitors looking for retail and leisure. There is a roastery, cafe, makers of cheese, wine, chocolate, cured meats, brewery, bakery, ice cream magician, furniture and metal artisans and general office spaces for businesses. It’s humming alright.

Castlemaine VIC

20 km away

Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar — Image credit: Bendigo Regional Tourism

Entertainment Venues

The Mill Castlemaine

Discover the unexpected around every corner at The Mill Castlemaine; home to more than 40 small businesses set in a reimagined 1870s woollen mill. Experience Viennese opulence at Das Kaffeehaus, where lovingly-prepared sausages, schnitzels and strudels are partnered with rich brews, whipped up using beans from the on-site roastery. Time-honoured techniques and carefully sourced ingredients come together to create high quality charcuterie at Oakwood Smallgoods Co. and organic artisan dairy products at Long Paddock Cheese. Savour delicious handcrafted Cabosse & Feve Chocolates and authentic sourdough baked goods from Sprout Bakery. Enjoy a frosty treat at Icecream Republic, where flavours range from traditional to the avant-garde. The Taproom at Shedshaker Brewing Co. offers craft beers, other beverages and tasty food. Boomtown Winemakers’ cellar door showcases Central Victorian grape varieties. Browse the Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar, a treasure trove of market-style spaces selling vintage, antique and hand-made goods, featuring the onsite makers. Meander around the artisan precinct and observe artists in residence, exhibiting and running classes in quirky studio spaces. The Mill Castlemaine is located 90 minutes north of Melbourne by road and rail and is opposite the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Open seven days a week, come and explore this part of Castlemaine’s vibrancy.

Castlemaine VIC

20 km away

Domino Trail

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Domino Trail

The Domino Trail is a wonderful rail-trail walking and cycling track that stretches between the Central Victorian townships of Trentham and Lyonville. It will take you deep into the Wombat State Forest – home to the endangered powerful owl and many other native wildlife species. The trail is relatively flat, and suitable for walkers and cyclists. In 1880, the coming of the railway to Trentham bolstered industry across the Central Highlands. It carried all supplies in, and locally grown produce, particularly potatoes, and raw timber out. The line closed in 1978, and today a section of the route between Trentham and the neighbouring village of Lyonville has been turned into a public walking track. The Domino Trail starts at the old Trentham railway station, where you will find lots of interpretive signage about the region's rich rail heritage. From there, you can go as far as you like along the well signed and maintained trail. It covers a total distance of six kilometres each way.

Trentham VIC

21 km away

Tasting the mineral water — Image credit: Daylesford Macedon Tourism

Natural Attractions

Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve

Relax, rejuvenate and explore. This region is home to over 80% of Victoria's Mineral Springs, famous for their stunning natural settings and healing waters. The Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve at Hepburn Springs was Australia’s first Mineral Reserve created in 1865 and houses the historic Bathhouse and Pavilion buildings. Take some time out to rejuvenate and take the waters or explore one of the many walking trails that are found throughout the Reserve. Have a wander along the creek to each mineral spring and taste the famous mineral water from the pumps throughout the reserve. There are barbeque facilities, picnic areas and a playground, so why not spend the day. The historic Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa and Pavilion Cafe are located in the Mineral Springs Reserve. For more information about walks from the Mineral Springs Reserve contact Parks Victoria. To book a mineral bathing session or a spa, contact the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa.

Daylesford VIC

21 km away

Sanctuary Mineral Bathing

Spas and Retreats

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

Hepburn Springs’ only historic Bathhouse, has been providing traditional wellness mineral bathing since 1895. Drawing mineral rich waters directly from the natural source, this iconic bathhouse reconnects you with an array of mineral wellness experiences including indulgent 100% pure private mineral baths and a selection of specifically designed spa and bathing packages. Explore the healing effects of mineral wellness in the facilities which include a relaxation pool, spa pool, an aroma steam room, magnesium salt therapy pool, creekside pool, walk-in cool down pool and spa couches submerged in mineral water, complemented by extensive relaxation decks. From private healing mineral baths to signature rituals, steam therapies, massage therapies, facial therapies, body therapies and more, every treatment at the spa will rejuvenate and reinvigorate.

Hepburn Springs VIC

21 km away

Old Police Complex and Trentham District Story

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Old Police Complex and Trentham District Story

Managed by the Trentham and District Historical Society, Trentham's Old Police Complex is the ideal place to start your exploration of the delightful village of Trentham. The complex of five portable weatherboard buildings operated from 1866 to 1987 as Trentham's police station. The charge office, garage, stable, and single and rare double cell are all in their original location and were in use until 1987 when Trentham and District Historical Society took over their administration. The buildings now house police memorabilia and local history exhibitions relating to the Trewhella Foundry, Dr Gwen Wisewould (the town's beloved doctor for more than a quarter of a century) and the area’s important potato industry. Adjacent to the Old Police Complex is The Trentham District Story – an outdoor installation of twelve double-sided interpretive panels, retelling the Indigenous and European histories of the Trentham area. The Old Police Complex is open most weekends from November to April. Visitors are welcome at all other times by arrangement with TDHS. The Trentham District Story is accessible at any time throughout the year. The site is an easy, one-block walk south of High Street along Cosmo Road or Market Street. It has a picnic table, public toilets nearby (in Market Street), and is dog friendly.

Trentham VIC

21 km away

The Mineral Spa Retreat — Image credit: Mineral Springs Hotel

Spas and Retreats

The Mineral Spa

Cocooned away from busy daily life, the Mineral Spa is an idyllic restorative haven in the heart of Hepburn Springs. Over two decades it has become known for rejuvenating massage and body treatments and the iconic Retreat, a mineral water therapy zone overlooking the gardens at Mineral Springs Hotel. The Retreat offers a restorative and intimate experience, opening to a maximum of nine adults at any one time, for 60 or 90 minute sessions. It includes hot mineral water spas, a cold plunge pool, steam room, infra-red detox box and basalt stone sauna. Spa treatments include Mineral Rituals, facials, body treatments and massage, using either quality Sodashi or Pevonia skincare ranges. Seasoned therapists ensure that every guest experiences a high quality and personal spa experience. The Mineral Spa is a relaxing sanctuary for those aged 16 and over. Bookings are essential and enquiries for private group bookings welcome. Guests are provided with a locker, shower amenities, towels and robes for their visit.

Hepburn Springs VIC

21 km away

Lavandula Farm

Agritourism

Lavandula Farm

Only a 10-minute drive from Daylesford centre, Lavandula is a unique agritourism experience that blends heritage, hospitality, retail and regional tourism within one legacy property. Set across 100 acres of European-inspired gardens, historic stone buildings and picturesque farmland, Lavandula invites visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in the beauty and sensory richness of country life. More than simply a lavender farm, Lavandula is a curated tourism experience designed to inspire connection to land, produce and history. Visitors can wander through expansive lavender fields and cottage gardens, discover artisan retail offerings and locally made products, dine within their hospitality venues, and experience a calendar of thoughtfully curated events that celebrate the seasons, regional produce and community. From long lunches and feast nights to weddings, private gatherings and family day trips, every visit to Lavandula is designed to feel memorable, generous and transportive. With its blend of heritage architecture, natural beauty and premium visitor experiences, Lavandula has become one of regional Victoria's most beloved lifestyle and tourism destinations. They welcome guests from across Australia and beyond to experience a slower, more beautiful way of gathering and exploring.

Shepherds Flat VIC

21 km away

Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Bathhouse and Wellness Retreat

Spas and Retreats

Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Bathhouse and Wellness Retreat

Experience the essence of an authentic Japanese country spa retreat at Shizuka Ryokan and Day Spa Retreat. Leave your cares at the door and step inside the world of traditional Japanese hospitality. Soothe the mind, body and spirit with a range of luxurious spa and holistic wellness therapies for day spa visitors and residential guests alike. The indulgent menu includes massage, reflexology, facials, foot treats, body polish and wraps. Inspired by Japan's ancient ryokan inns, which provided a haven for weary travellers, Shizuka Ryokan offers you a place for renewal of mind, body and spirit. Also available is traditional accommodation and delicious cuisine. Set amid tranquil bushland in central Victoria's picturesque spa country, Shizuka Ryokan is fully authentic in every detail including its architecture, furnishings and gardens. Couples, singles and small groups come to relax, indulge, rejuvenate and immerse in the romance and tranquillity. Shizuka Ryokan is also a unique venue for small community and corporate groups to conduct retreats, workshops and meetings. Located in Hepburn Springs near Daylesford, it is a small piece of Japan thatis close to home, just a 75 minute drive from Melbourne. For Australians, that is much more accessible than the long flight to Kyoto.

Hepburn Springs VIC

21 km away

Sailors Falls Hepburn Regional Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Hepburn Regional Park

Nestled around the famous mineral spring townships of Daylesford, Hepburn and Hepburn Springs, the Hepburn Regional Park is a natural treasure. Rich with natural springs and relics from the gold mining era, the park provides opportunities for bushwalking, camping, cycling, picnicking and horse riding. Visit the mineral springs of Sailors Falls, Tipperary Springs, Golden and Argyle Springs as you walk along the many tracks that wind through the bushland and along the creeks and water races. Take the Mineral Springs Loop Walk for a view of Sailors Falls, or walk from Breakneck Falls to Golden Springs, sampling some of the ‘curative’ waters, before making your way to Jacksons Lookout for panoramic views from the tower over the surrounding landscape. Stop in for a wood-fired barbecue picnic at Lalgambuk (Mount Franklin), Twin Bridges or Bryces Flat and take in the serenity of this beautiful retreat. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Hepburn Springs VIC

21 km away

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