Historic, artistic and perfect for a short, indulgent getaway, the sibling towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are the heart of Victoria’s Spa Country. Daylesford is the larger of the two, its tree-lined streets graced with charming Victorian architecture, antique shops and galleries and snug cafes like Cliffy’s. Gourmands reserve their linen-clad table well in advance at award-winning restaurant-spa resort Lake House, while romantics hit hilltop Covent Gallery, a picturesque 19th-century convent turned rambling art space.

Directly to the north lies sleepier Hepburn Springs, best known for its sleek Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa; book bathhouse visits and any private spa treatments online in advance. Early European settlers here included Swiss-Italian miners, who lent some of the area’s historic buildings a distinctly Italian inflection.

Practical Info

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs lie around 113km northwest of Melbourne.

Car: From Melbourne, head northwest on the Calder Fwy (A79) and take the Macedon/Woodend/Daylesford (C792) exit. In Woodend, take the C317 west towards Trentham/Daylesford.

Alternatively, head west from Melbourne on the Western Fwy (M8) and exit at Ballan/Daylesford (C141).

Train/Bus: V/Line trains run from Melbourne to Woodend, from where a coach continues to Daylesford.