Cool Country Victoria: Discover Daylesford and Hepburn Springs’ Hidden Gems

Daylesford Lake

Welcome to the luxury capital of the Victorian countryside, full of natural splendour, cool local culture and a damn good lifestyle.

Daylesford has good old rustic country charm and for better or worse, a bit of Melbourne’s character too.

This is a luxurious country town, but you can find a lot of great places that are accessible to the everyday person.

Here’s a fresh take on where to eat, where to drink and what to see in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.

Cool Places to Eat in Daylesford

Forget the usual suspects that will blow your budget, Daylesford has some incredible, less-talked-about eateries that deserve a spot on your must-visit list.

The Surly Goat

Nestled away on Raglan Street, this place is run by people who love making food for themselves as much as others. It does a daily changing ‘prix fixe’ four-course menu, with 8 to 10 items sustainably focused and seasonal.

Small scale, regenerative and good old local. 

The Argus Dining Room

A quiet achiever in Daylesford’s food scene, this spot is all about refined, paddock-to-plate dining. 

Affordable considering the class and quality of this joint. It’s worth it.

Pancho Cafe

For more casual food in Daylesford, you don’t need to compromise.

Pancho Cafe has a super interesting menu for lunch and breakfast food, such as Passionfruit and Ricotta Toast or Hot Pork Roll. 

Cool Places to Drink in Daylesford

Skip the usual wine bars and gin distilleries, and head to these low-key spots for something truly special.

The Farmers Arms Hotel

160 years old and still hasn’t sold out or lost its cool.

This place still stakes out its relevance in both culture and cost, with a contemporary drinks menu, that ranges from casual to classy. You can also just get a humble pint for $12 and have a casual chinwag with the locals.

Country hospitality never looked so cool. 

Daylesford Cider Company

Located just outside of town, this family-owned cidery is a hidden gem. 

Here’s a quick sell: Daydrinking traditionally crafted ciders in a picturesque English-style garden.

Those seeking relaxation may go to the spas, those looking to have a bit more fun doing it go here.

Also, those looking for a big day out should go here.

Hepburn Distillery

Family-owned spirits made from scratch. Well, if you’re living in the natural splendour of Daylesford, finding all the botanicals you’d ever need for gin wouldn’t be impossible.

Tastings, gin-making workshops or just good for a few cocktails, be a good tourist why don’t you support some local heroes like Hepburn Distillery?

Leave through the gin gift shop, if you like that. This is the country after all, not Ikea.

Cool Things to Do and See in Daylesford

Do a little less here. That’s why people melt away in luxury spa houses. 

Still, get outdoors and take it all in.

Hepburn Regional Park

Nestled around the townships of Daylesford, Hepburn and Hepburn Springs, Hepburn Regional Park has cool waterfalls, natural springs and relics from the Gold Rush era.

Visit the mineral springs of Sailors Falls, Tipperary Springs, Golden and Argyle Springs. Stand on the viewing platform at The Blowhole and see the manmade diversion of Sailors Creek in the 1850s, resulting in a gushing free-flow out of the side of the landscape.

Convent Gallery

Worth going for just the covent, really. Very cheap entry with over four levels, there are seven gallery spaces to waltz around and make your own mind up.

Also just a beautiful vista with groomed gardens and panoramic views of Victoria’s picturesque central highlands.

Daylesford Speedway

Daylesford starting a few little stuffy for your liking?

Daylesford Speedway is the oldest running speedway dirt track in Victoria for some high-octane thrills. Bet you didn’t imagine that in spa country.

Look out for events.

Chocolate Mill

It wouldn’t be a boutique town, without a cute artisan chocolate maker. The mill specialises in European-style handmade chocolates and their viewing room gives you a peek at the creation process.

Domino Rail Trail

Photo Credit: ClairDerwortPhoto

The Domino Rail Trail is an easy 12km return walk (approx. 3 hours) following the old railway line from the Trentham heritage-listed railway station (no longer in use) into the Wombat Forest.

Ride past rolling hills, farmlands and historic railway remnants.

Naturally, finish off at the Radio Springs Hotel for a well-earned pint.

This pub is more than just being in a fortunate position. This super cool, eccentric venue was voted Australia’s coolest country pub.