The Best Small Town In Victoria For A 3-Day Weekend
If you're looking for a relaxing three-day weekend getaway, look no further than Daylesford, Victoria. Known as the "Spa Capital of Australia," this town is famous for its natural mineral springs, making it a premier destination for wellness and relaxation. From luxurious spa treatments to delicious local cuisine and interesting shops, Daylesford offers a refreshing escape from the daily grind. Let’s dive into how to make the most of an extended weekend stay.
Where To Stay
Choosing the right accommodation sets the tone for your entire trip. Daylesford has a range of lodging options, from high-end hotels to cozy inns that cater to different tastes and budgets.
For those seeking luxury, the Lake House is an iconic choice. This hotel is renowned for its exceptional service and premium amenities. The rooms are elegantly appointed, and the on-site spa provides a sanctuary for rejuvenation. Beyond the spa, the hotel provides activities like beekeeping and sourdough baking classes, allowing guests to learn a new skill during their stay. The dining is a major draw, with a celebrated restaurant that sources many of its ingredients from its own Dairy Flat Farm.
If you prefer a more rural setting, you can book a stay at Dairy Flat Lodge & Farm itself. Located just ten minutes from town, this 38-acre regenerative farm provides a high-end country stay. It features a vegetable garden, an orchard, a vineyard, and a bakehouse that produces fresh pastries. Guests can also appreciate the property's trout dam and resident animals, including cows and alpacas.
Another great option is the Hotel Frangos, a historic establishment. The building has served many purposes over the years, from a bank to a bar, before becoming the stylish hotel it is today. It features individually designed guest suites and excellent service. The hotel's café, Café Koukla, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, serving what many call the town's best coffee, alongside woodfire pizzas and cocktails.
If you’re looking for something more low-key but still elegant, Poets Lodge is an excellent choice. This inn provides several lodging options, including private cabins and rooms within a shared lodge. It’s a great spot for those who appreciate a quiet and comfortable setting. The lodge also hosts a variety of workshops, such as interior design, flower arranging, and wreath making, giving you a chance to get creative during your stay.
Luxuriate in the Spa Capital
You can't visit the "Spa Capital of Australia" without indulging in at least one treatment. The area's mineral-rich waters are at the heart of its wellness culture, with numerous facilities dedicated to health and relaxation.
Daylesford Day Spa is a popular destination, with a comprehensive menu of services designed to soothe the body and mind. From massages to facials, their treatments incorporate local and natural ingredients. For those seeking targeted therapeutic relief, Daylesford Healing Massage specializes in a variety of massage techniques, including deep tissue and remedial massage, performed by skilled therapists.
If you're staying at the Lake House, their on-site spa is one of the most luxurious in the region. The Spa at Lake House has a tranquil setting overlooking the lake and a menu of signature treatments that use high-quality products. It's an indulgent way to spend an afternoon.
For a touch of history, head to the nearby town of Hepburn Springs to visit the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. This historic facility has been in operation since 1895 and allows you to soak in the local mineral waters. The bathhouse has both communal and private bathing options, as well as a full range of spa therapies. It’s a classic Daylesford-area activity that connects you to the region's long-standing tradition of wellness.
Get Outside
While Daylesford is known for its spas, the surrounding natural landscape is just as compelling. There are plenty of opportunities to get active and take in the fresh country air.
A visit to the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a must. Perched atop an extinct volcano, these gardens provide panoramic views of the town and countryside. It's a wonderful place for a leisurely walk among well-maintained flowerbeds and towering trees. There's also a café and bakery within the gardens, so you can pick up a loaf of freshly baked bread for a picnic.
Lake Daylesford is the town's central hub for recreation. A path encircles the lake, making for a pleasant stroll with great views. During warmer months, you can go for a swim or rent a kayak to paddle on the water. It’s a central point of town life and a great place to relax.
If you're up for a short drive, there are some remarkable natural sites nearby. Hanging Rock, about a 20-minute drive away, is a prehistoric volcanic rock formation with a sacred history. Known for its unusual shapes and distinctive ridges, it’s a fascinating place to walk and climb. Another nearby attraction is Trentham Falls. This waterfall is particularly impressive during the winter and spring when the water flow is at its strongest. It's one of Victoria's longest single-drop waterfalls and is well worth the trip.
Discover the Town's Treasures
Beyond the spas and natural attractions, the town of Daylesford itself is exceptionally walkable and full of interesting places to see. Art galleries, specialty shops, and historic sites are scattered throughout, waiting to be discovered.
The Convent is a multi-story art gallery housed in a 19th-century former convent. It showcases a mix of contemporary and traditional art across its many rooms and hallways. The building itself is a work of art, and the on-site café is a lovely spot to rest and reflect. For those who want to bring the spa feeling home, a stop at EKO is in order. This shop sells luxurious self-care and beauty products, many of which are made with natural and locally sourced ingredients.
Vincent Street is the main thoroughfare, lined with bars, restaurants, clothing boutiques, and numerous antique stores. Brick Lane Bazaar is a standout, featuring around thirty stallholders, each with a focus on a different theme or product. This setup gives the store a diverse and ever-changing collection of vintage goods and collectibles. Book lovers will get lost in Paradise Bookshop, a store with 14 rooms filled with books, games, records, and toys from times gone by.
For a different perspective on the area, take a ride on the Daylesford Spa Country Railway. This heritage railway operates from the 1882 station and takes you on a journey through farmland and forests to Bullarto, Victoria's highest railway station. It’s a nostalgic and relaxing way to see the countryside.
Enjoy Local Flavors
Daylesford's culinary scene is as rich and varied as its mineral springs. The region is known for its high-quality local produce, which is showcased in its many cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
If you're staying at the Lake House, a meal at their restaurant is a must, even if you're not a guest. It’s a fine-dining establishment that highlights the best of the region's ingredients, many of which come directly from their own farm. For a more casual but equally delicious start to your day, head to Cliffy's Emporium. This beloved rustic café and historic general store is famous for its breakfasts and its shelves stocked with local produce.
For a classic pub meal, visit the Farmers Arms, the town's oldest pub. It has a cozy atmosphere and a menu of hearty, well-prepared dishes. If cider is more your style, make your way to Daylesford Cider. They produce award-winning ciders from organic heritage apples grown on their property. You can do a tasting, have a casual lunch, and sit in their garden on a sunny day.
And for those with a sweet tooth, a visit to The Chocolate Mill is essential. They are known for their handmade chocolates and what many claim is the best hot chocolate you'll ever taste. It’s the perfect treat after a day of sightseeing.
So, there you have it! Daylesford offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and indulgence. From luxurious spas and stunning natural landscapes to unique shops and incredible local food, there’s something for everyone in this charming small town.
Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or simply escape the daily grind, this small Victoria town promises a memorable weekend getaway that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
