1. Explore The City
The most obvious choice here is to explore the city. There is SO much to do that you could easily spend weeks exploring art centres, museums, bars, restaurants but here’s the biggest tip: make a plan before you go! Heading into the city without a plan isn’t the best idea as you simply won’t make the most of your time or see the best bits. You don’t have to plan down to the tee, but make sure you know where you’re going before you get there!
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2. Treat Yourself
Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are home to Victoria best spas due to the fact that there over 140 natural mineral springs here. Spend time rejuvenating in the healing waters at one of the many spas and wellness retreats in the area. The Daylesford Day Spa and Beauty, Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, and The Spa at Lake House are amongst the highlights.
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3. Delight Your Artistic Side
Melbourne is a safe haven for street artists and you can check out Hosier Lane, Centre Place, and AC/DC Lane for some of the best. Other Arts experiences in and around Melbourne include ArtVo, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and the sculptures at the Heide Museum of Modern Art which is located in Bulleen.
In Daylesford and Macedon Ranges, immerse yourself in the arts community. From workshops and the opportunity to learn some of the lost trades in Kynton to the Macedon Arts Trail where you can discover some of the most creative locals, you’ll appreciate this area even if you’re not usually an art lover.
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4. Visit Exquisite Gardens
Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are home to some of the most exquisite gardens in the state. Visit Wombat Hills Botanic Gardens and sit on top of an extinct volcano. At the Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm you can explore 100 acres of gardens and meet Mirella the Highland Cow. Or have a picnic in Hepburn Regional Park, see the blowhole and dive into Hepburn Pool.
In the City of Melbourne Fitzroy Gardens, Flagstaff Gardens, Shrine of Remembrance Reserve and the Royal Botanic Gardens South Yarra are amongst some of the best
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5. Eat!
This area is home to incredible cafés, restaurants and bars, but heading away from the delights of the city, you’ll come across some incredible farm gate experiences. From local provedores to bakers and cheesemakers, the local produce in Daylesford and surrounds is unparalleled. Start off at the farmers markets and then go exploring. For something special for your BBQ, head to Daylesford Meat Co.
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6. Drink!
Beer, wine, cider, spirits, coffee. If you can drink it, this region makes it! Melbourne leads the way in Australia’s craft beer scene and new breweries seem to appear weekly, and that goes for cider too! And distilleries! Head to Hepburn Springs Distillery, The Fermentary, Daylesford Cider Company or Holgate Brewery.
The Macedon Ranges is also one of the closest wine regions to Melbourne. Check out Cloud 9, Hanging Rock and Cleveland Wines (who do delicious pizzas on the weekend too).
For drinks of a different kind, head to Naughty Boy Cafe for the most epic freakshakes!
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7. Embrace Sporting Past & Present
If every summer night when your head hits the pillow you drift of to sleep dreaming about the hallowed willow of the Cricket bat then Cricket willow is for you – See how cricket bats are manufactured from start to finish.
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Want access to the best free camps, top walks, events, local secrets (and more) in the Melbourne, Daylesford and Macedon Ranges regions? Click here to get your Big Lap Bible now.
