A Guide To Enjoying A Visit To Daylesford, Australia
Daylesford is one of Australia’s premier spa towns, where relaxation is virtually mandatory. Established in 1852 as a gold-mining town, Daylesford has since become the ultimate weekend getaway spot and we have your guide to accommodation, where to eat and all the activities to have a great time here.
Accommodation
A weekend in Daylesford doesn’t have to break the bank, and we’ve tracked down three fantastic options for under $150 per night, all within 500 meters of the visitor information centre and only a few kilometres from Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.
Daylesford Central Motor Inn offers complimentary wi-fi, BBQ facilities, and has a lovely outdoor garden. The three-star hotel’s standard room costs $125 and sleeps two in a Queen bed, with a crib available on request. The hotel also offers continental breakfast for an additional cost.
Central Springs Inn is a four-star cosy retreat perfect for the family, with 46 rooms and a fireplace in the lobby. The Heritage Family Mezzanine room sleeps four, while the Executive Suite sleeps two; both rooms are priced at $129 per night. Breakfast is available for a surcharge and, in case you’re in need of reading material, the hotel has its own library.
Albert Guest House and Mills Spa Suites is a four-star restored pub, and for $140 per night you can stay in their Albert Cozy room with private bathroom and they’ll throw in breakfast for no additional cost. Each room is individually furnished, and adjoining rooms are available.
Activities
Once you’ve put your bags down, it’s time to enjoy all that Daylesford and the surrounding area have to offer and the perfect place to start is Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. Since 1895 the mineral waters have drawn visitors from near and far. The bathhouse features a 32-degree relaxation pool, 35-degree spa pool with submerged seating, a salt therapy pool and creekside bathing, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscape. We recommend the Aroma Steam Room, which will immerse you in a scented mist. There is also a range of therapies available, including facials, massages and spa steam therapy.
Another point of interest in Daylesford is Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, set atop an extinct volcano and providing unmatched views of Daylesford. Situated on more than 10 acres of land, the gardens were established in 1863 and make for a perfect picnic spot. Another great place to visit is the Convent Gallery which features eight galleries, a museum and a café.
Eat
With plenty of fresh local produce, Daylesford is a place to treat your palate and these four options are sure to keep your belly full. For a casual bite drop by the Himalaya Bakery & Café on Vincent Street and pick up one of their pies or pastries, a biodynamic loaf or an organic bite. If you’re after wood-fired pizza or comfort food, then check out Café Koukla, which is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For spectacular views visit Sault, which sits on 125 acres, offers a tasting menu showcasing the best local produce, and has its very own lavender field for you to wander through. To treat your tastebuds stop by Mercato @ Daylesford, where a fusion of European and modern Australian cuisine has been crafted by chef Richard Mee to bring you a fine country-dining experience.