Top 10 Things to Do in Daylesford: A local's guide to Victoria's favourite country escape

If you're planning a visit to Daylesford and wondering what to do while you're here, you're in luck. Nestled in the heart of Victoria's spa country, Daylesford is one of Australia's most beloved regional destinations, known for its natural mineral springs, beautiful gardens, exceptional food and wine, boutique shopping, and relaxing country charm.

Whether you're visiting for a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or a day trip from Melbourne, here are ten of the best things to do in Daylesford and the surrounding region.

1. Explore the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens

Perched high above town, the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens offer some of the best views in Daylesford. Established in the 1860s, these heritage gardens are home to towering trees, colourful seasonal plantings, walking paths, and the iconic Wombat Hill House café.

It's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply taking in the beauty of the region.

2. Relax at the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

No visit to Daylesford is complete without experiencing the region's famous mineral waters. The Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has been welcoming visitors for more than a century and remains one of the area's most popular attractions.

Choose from mineral bathing, spa treatments, wellness experiences, or simply enjoy a few hours of relaxation surrounded by nature.

3. Discover Daylesford's boutique shopping scene

Daylesford is a treasure trove for lovers of unique finds. Wander through Vincent Street and the surrounding village streets to discover independent boutiques, homewares stores, artisan makers, bookstores, galleries, and vintage shops. You'll find everything from handcrafted ceramics and designer fashion to locally made food products and antiques.

4. Visit the Daylesford Sunday Market

Operating for decades, the Daylesford Sunday Market is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Browse stalls selling local produce, handmade crafts, plants, vintage treasures, books, clothing, and more. It's a wonderful way to experience the local community while picking up something special to take home.

5. Walk around Lake Daylesford

Lake Daylesford offers one of the most scenic and accessible walks in the region. The gentle circuit around the lake takes approximately 30–40 minutes and showcases beautiful views, birdlife, picnic areas, and historic landmarks.

Stop by the famous Boathouse Daylesford for coffee, lunch, or simply to admire the water.

6. Sample the region's food and wine

Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are renowned for their exceptional food culture. From award-winning restaurants and cellar doors to farmgate produce and cosy country pubs, there's something for every taste.

Be sure to seek out local wines, ciders, cheeses, olive oils, and seasonal produce that showcase the richness of the region.

7. Hunt for Mineral Springs

The Daylesford region is home to Australia's largest concentration of natural mineral springs. Exploring these unique springs is one of the area's most distinctive experiences. Popular spots include Central Springs Reserve, Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, and several lesser-known springs tucked away in nearby bushland.

Bring a bottle and sample the naturally carbonated mineral water straight from the source.

8. Visit local galleries and creative spaces

Daylesford has long attracted artists, makers, and creatives. Throughout the region you'll find galleries showcasing contemporary art, ceramics, sculpture, photography, jewellery, and handcrafted goods.

Many artists open their studios to visitors, offering a chance to meet the makers and learn more about their work.

9. Explore the region's walking trails

Nature lovers are spoiled for choice around Daylesford. The surrounding forests offer countless walking tracks through fern gullies, native bushland, and historic goldfields.

Popular options include sections of the Goldfields Track, Sailors Falls, and the picturesque Hepburn Regional Park.

10. Spend time at Lavandula Farm

We'd be remiss not to mention our own little corner of the region.

Located just 10 minutes from Daylesford in Shepherds Flat, Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm offers visitors the chance to slow down and experience a unique piece of local history. Set on a historic Swiss-Italian farming settlement, the property features lavender fields, heritage gardens, stone buildings, farm animals, walking paths, a café, and a boutique retail store.

While we're naturally a little biased, many visitors tell us that what they enjoy most is simply taking their time wandering through the grounds, enjoying lunch in the garden, meeting the animals, and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

Planning your Daylesford getaway

One of the things that makes Daylesford so special is the variety of experiences packed into a relatively small area. You can start the day with a lakeside walk, enjoy a mineral spa, browse local shops, indulge in exceptional food and wine, and finish the afternoon among lavender fields or heritage gardens.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, you'll quickly understand why so many visitors return to Daylesford again and again.

Looking for more inspiration? Browse our other guides to local attractions, seasonal events, and hidden gems throughout the Daylesford and Hepburn region.