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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

0.1 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

0.2 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

1.9 km away

The Woods Daylesford - Studio — Image credit: Colin Doswell

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Woods Daylesford

Located in the central highlands of Victoria, a stone's throw from Daylesford and just over an hour from Melbourne, The Woods Daylesford is a creative studio offering a range of inspiring workshops, classes and events. Here, you can join an intimate circle of creatives for an extraordinary experience. An opportunity to step into a curated creative space, connect with like-minded people, share in a wealth of knowledge, trade secrets and sources and, through instruction, example and hands-on experience, leave with a wealth of new-found knowledge and skills. Through nature-led creative workshops and thoughtful food experiences, they celebrate slow living, playful creativity and the quiet magic found in making and cooking together, guided by the seasons and inspired by the natural world. Visitors can visit The Woods Daylesford by participating in one of their workshops.

Bullarto VIC

9.5 km away

The Historic House of St Erth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Garden of St Erth

Nestled just a short drive from Daylesford and Ballarat, The Garden of St Erth is a historic house enveloped by enchanting gardens — the perfect retreat for nature lovers, garden enthusiasts, and anyone seeking peaceful inspiration. Wander through their exquisite gardens where espaliered fruit trees, heirloom vegetables, and drought‑tolerant flowers flourish together in harmony. The gardens reflect not only traditional borders - the bush garden is alive with native birdsong, an ideal space for reflection, reconnecting with nature, and restoring calm. Visit their nursery and garden shop: where the friendly, knowledgeable team is always ready to help. Choose from an expansive selection of heirloom seeds and plants, everything you need to bring a piece of St Erth home. Their café is open daily, offering hearty meals, freshly brewed coffee, and homemade cakes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Diggers Club at St Erth leads by example in sustainable gardening. Whether you're curious about organic methods, water‑wise planting, or growing your own food, you'll find ideas, inspiration, and practical guidance to garden in a responsible way.

Blackwood VIC

10 km away

Jubilee Lake — Image credit: Hepburn Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Jubilee Lake

Situated just a few minutes' drive from the centre of Daylesford, Jubilee Lake is a fabulous place to visit for the whole family. There's a range of activities and amenities on offer, including barbeque facilities, walking trails, canoe and paddle boat hire, a playground, caravan park, and cafe/kiosk. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, so you may even want to toss in a line! Originally known as Hepburn Goldfields Reservoir, Jubilee Lake was built to supply water to the local gold mines during the 1860s gold rush. Walk the lake circuit and stop at the Jubilee mineral spring to try some of the area's famous natural mineral water. If you want to do a longer hike, you can link up with the Goldfields Trail and walk into Daylesford. Visit in autumn to admire the changing colours of the avenue of mature elm trees that leads to the mineral spring.

Daylesford VIC

16 km away

Train descending into the forest at the Daylesford Railway — Image credit: Daylesford Railway

Amusement and Theme Parks

Daylesford Railway

Daylesford Railway invites visitors on a nostalgic journey back in time aboard restored vintage railmotors. Departing from the beautifully preserved 1882 heritage station in Daylesford, the train glides through rolling farmland before entering the lush eucalyptus forests of the Central Victorian Highlands. The scenic nine-kilometre route gently climbs to Bullarto, Victoria's highest operating railway station, where passengers can step into a tranquil forest setting and breathe in the fresh air and take in the magnificent historic station at Bullarto. With windows open to the rustling leaves and natural scents of the bush, the ride offers a relaxing escape filled with charm, living history, and the peaceful beauty of the region. Popular with families, couples and train enthusiasts alike, this volunteer-run heritage experience captures the romance of country rail travel in Victoria's Heartland and pairs perfectly with a wander through the vibrant Daylesford Sunday Market that bustles alongside the station. Visit the Daylesford Railway website for more information. Daylesford is approximately one hour and twenty minutes drive from Melbourne.

Daylesford VIC

16 km away

Wombat Hill Gardens — Image credit: Hepburn Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens

Located on top of Wombat Hill (an extinct volcano) just behind Daylesford's town centre, the historic, ten-hectare Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens was established in 1862. This English-style civic garden is home to many significant trees and largely follows its original 19th century design. Start your visit by driving around the original carriage trail (Elm Circuit Drive), which circles the entire grounds. Park in one of the designated areas and continue your exploration on foot. You may like to climb the 77 stairs to the top of Pioneer Memorial Tower for stunning views across the surrounding region. Take care as the stairs are very steep. Children must be supervised closely. There are many other highlights throughout the gardens, including the fernery, rotunda, and begonia house. When hunger strikes, head to charming Wombat Hill House cafe, which occupies the original caretaker's cottage and serves coffee, cake, and light meals. Are you a keen gardener? Leave time to visit the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens' nursery (adjacent to Wombat Hill House), which is open for plant sales Thursday to Saturday mornings. Proceeds help fund maintenance projects in the gardens. Pick up a map and guide to exploring Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens from the Daylesford Regional Visitor Information Centre.

Daylesford VIC

16 km away

Friends of Wombat HIll Botanic Garden Nursery — Image credit: Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens Nursery

Perched high above Daylesford, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens feels like a gentle exhale from the world below. A highlight of any visit is a stop at the Friends of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens Nursery, tucked into the gardens like a well-kept secret. Run by passionate volunteers, the nursery offers a thoughtful selection of plants suited to the local climate, many propagated directly from the gardens themselves. Browsing here feels personal and unhurried, with friendly advice, gardening stories, and the quiet satisfaction of taking home a living piece of Wombat Hill.

Daylesford VIC

16 km away

Convent Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Convent Gallery

Australian Tourism Award Winner, the Convent Gallery is a must-do whilst in Daylesford. A wide range of experiences await, including art and culture, history, architecture and great country food and service. The historic building, once the Holy Cross Convent, now houses multiple gallery spaces, a beautifully restored chapel, museums, Bad Habits Café and a gift shop across its four levels. Throughout seven gallery spaces, you will discover artwork by local, national and international artists, established and emerging. Featuring traditional and contemporary paintings, sculptures, prints, ceramics, glassware and textiles. The art exhibitions change every eight weeks, ensuring each visit is new and exciting. In the museum you will discover the history of Daylesford's most iconic building and its past occupants - the Presentation Sisters and Holy Cross Boarders. Bad Habits Café produces world-class fare in a stunning sunlit atrium and art filled room. Serving up breakfast, lunch, freshly baked scones and High Teas. A visit to the Convent must include a meander through the gardens, to the very top of the hill, where you will be greeted by the best views of the township. A visit to The Convent in Daylesford is truly a unique experience.

Daylesford VIC

16 km away

Daylesford Bowling Club — Image credit: Daylesford Bowling Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Daylesford Bowling Club

Nestled in the beautiful hills of Daylesford, the Daylesford Bowling Club are a friendly community club where locals and visitors alike can relax, connect, and enjoy everything they have to offer. Their greens are open to everyone, whether you're a seasoned bowler or giving the game a try for the very first time. The team love welcoming visitors and are always happy to help you get started. If you're looking for something more relaxed, barefoot bowls is a fantastic way to enjoy time with family, friends, or workmates while soaking up the fresh country air. After a game, settle into their welcoming bistro for a delicious meal refreshing drink, or great coffee while taking in the stunning views across the surrounding countryside. With comfortable indoor dining and outdoor deck seating, it's the perfect place to unwind after exploring Daylesford and the surrounding region. There's always something happening at the club, from live entertainment and social events to community gatherings and special occasions. Whether you're after a lively evening or a quiet afternoon with good company, you'll feel right at home. Bring your family, friends, or simply yourself and experience our warm hospitality, beautiful surrounds, and genuine country welcome. At Daylesford Bowling Club, everyone is welcome.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

The Big Rainbow with Tinder's Glambassadors — Image credit: Tinder

Landmarks and Buildings

The Big Rainbow

Home to the annual ChillOut festival, Daylesford is known as the rainbow capital of regional Victoria and has been an integral part of the state's LGBTQIA+ history for more than 50 years. For that reason, in 2022 the town was selected from a shortlist of four locations around Australia to host The Big Rainbow – a worthy addition to Australia's list of 'Big Things' and a monument to the power of regional pride. Hepburn Shire Council invited feedback from the community as to where The Big Rainbow should be located, and Victoria Park was chosen. It's just a short drive from the centre of town and is the perfect spot for a picnic. Make sure you snap a selfie under the giant multi-coloured arch.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

Salus Spa at Lake House

Spas and Retreats

The Spa at Lake House

The award-winning Spa is nestled amongst the lush gardens of the Lake House hotel, which also includes a multi-award winning restaurant. The state-of-the-art Spa designed with blonde wood and splashes of Tiffany blue is surrounded by waterfall fed streams and offers nine treatment areas over three levels. Start with a hot mineral water spa in one of the lovely treehouses. The deep tub is prepared with 100 percent pure mineral water from a specially selected nearby spring. Try a massage and indulge in a blissful Daylesford Pure treatment. The Hydrostorm is a perfect treatment for two people to share; incorporating vertical vichy, Swiss shower, colour therapy, steam and aromatherapy. Large expanses of glass offer views to the lakeshore, stream and cool fern gully. Outdoor balconies and sunlit lounges provide a lovely setting to relax with a restorative herbal tea. In a region that boasts the largest concentration of naturally occurring mineral springs in Australia, The Spa's own Daylesford Pure Mineral and Spring Water is available for guests to drink on site.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

The front entrance to Bromley and co at The Rex

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bromley and Co

Bromley and Co Gallery is a unique combination of art and sculpture, fashion boutique and homewares. David and Yuge Bromley have created a visual feast to reflect their own lives and passions. When you visit this Daylesford gallery you will be enchanted and captivated by the calibre of the artists in the collection. The visual display of art, mid century furniture, ceramic, fashion, jewellery and textiles will inspire you to recreate your own home and keep you coming back for more. Bromley and Co are excited to be opening at the Rex Theatre, on Vincent Street in Daylesford. Come and discover a world of beauty and grandeur.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

Daylesford Museum — Image credit: Hepburn Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Daylesford Museum

The Daylesford and District Historical Society was formed in 1964 and seven years later its members established Daylesford Museum. It is housed in the former School of Mines and later Technical School, which has ten large rooms that now serves as exhibition spaces and research facilities. Daylesford Museum is a not-for-profit and entirely volunteer-run organisation, and holds a wonderful collection of artefacts, photographs, and historical records relating to the local community. The Daylesford and District Historical Society is proud to acknowledge that they are located on Dja Dja Wurrung Country; they pay their respects to leaders and elders past, present and emerging who maintain a deep connection to this place. They encourage visitors to Daylesford Museum to learn about the local Traditional Owners of this land. Visit the Museum's website for the latest information on opening hours.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

Daylesford Day Spa

Spas and Retreats

Daylesford Day Spa

The art of relaxation is Daylesford Day Spa. In an area renowned for its mineral water springs, spas and health treatments, and centrally located in a converted heritage building, Daylesford Day Spa creates a unique relaxation and rejuvenation experience for their clients. At times you simply need to be pampered, Daylesford Day Spa has a treatment to suit everyone. Daylesford Day Spa's signature ‘Art of Relaxation’ is a spa day out package that indulges in all of the signature treatments of the spa and includes a scrumptious lunch which will have you feeling totally rejuvenated. Beauty treatments are all customised for your individual skin types and preferences bring the best of natural product formulations from Jurlique where herbs and plants are grown in the Adelaide Hills and all products are made in Australia, as well as introducing high performance beauty products from the luxury European brand Babor. In 2024 they have also incorporated new signature treatments with a Japanese holistic feel from their CBD spa including Japanese Shiatsu and a new Onsen and Shiatsu package for total relaxation.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

Jetty on Lake Daylesford looking towards the Boathouse — Image credit: Visit Victoria

Natural Attractions

Peace Mile Loop Walk, Lake Daylesford

Take in the sights and sounds of nature by doing the Peace Mile Walk around lovely Lake Daylesford's circumference. This gentle loop utilises a well-maintained gravel path and sections of boardwalk, and offers stunning views across the water. It will take you about 40 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace. Up for a longer trek? Follow the spur trail from the lake spillway down to Central Springs Reserve and continue along Wombat Creek to Sutton Spring. This is part of the famous Goldfields Track. Check with Parks Victoria for current trail closures and conditions.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

Lake Daylesford — Image credit: Hepburn Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Lake Daylesford

Lake Daylesford is the heart and soul of the Daylesford township. Situated just a short distance from the town centre, it's a lovely spot to while away an hour or two and offers something to entertain everyone. Children will love bird spotting, watching the resident ducks, and the waterside playground. There's also a small beach area suitable for paddling in summer. Visitors of all ages will enjoy doing the Peace Mile Walk around the circumference of the lake. This compacted gravel track covers 2.8 kilometres and takes approximately 40 minutes to complete. Extend your walk by doing a section of the Goldfields Track between Lake Daylesford and Twin Bridges. Follow the signs from the spillway down to Central Springs Reserve and continue along Wombat Creek. Afterwards, make use of the barbeque facilities, grab a coffee and light lunch from Walters 3460 cafe, or settle in for a more substantial meal at the Boathouse Restaurant. Don't forget to taste the famous mineral water at Wombat Flat Mineral Spring and Central Springs Reserve. Lake Daylesford is a manmade lake and was designed by Walter Burley Griffin. Originally a series of gold diggings, construction of the lake as you see it today began in 1927 and it continues to be used for many recreational activities.

Daylesford VIC

17 km away

Sailors Falls — Image credit: Goldfields Guide

Natural Attractions

Sailors Falls

Sailors Falls is a stunning 20-metre waterfall situated just a ten-minute drive from Daylesford. Water from Sailors Creek drops into a lush, fern-lined gully, before meandering through a series of gorgeous rock pools and on through Hepburn Regional Park. To visit Sailors Falls, pull off the Ballan-Daylesford Road and park as signed, then make your way down to a series of viewing platforms. Note that there are a significant number of steps to climb. Amenities at the site include a tapped mineral spring, undercover picnic tables, and interpretive displays. No steps are involved in accessing these facilities. Sailors Falls is thought to be named after sailors who jumped ship to seek gold in the area during the 1850s gold rush. Throughout this area, you can spot the remnants of water races that delivered sluice water to the gold diggings to uncover the nuggets of precious metal. Hepburn Regional Park is one of six Aboriginal title parks in Central West Victoria, which are jointly managed by the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and Parks Victoria.

Sailors Falls VIC

18 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

18 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

18 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

18 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

19 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

19 km away

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