Exploring Further
Discover the Macedon Ranges region
Trentham isn't just about good food and boutique stores. It makes a great base for exploring neighbouring towns and attractions. Only short drives away are the hotspots of Daylesford, Kyneton and Woodend. Daylesford is home to the highest concentration of natural mineral springs in Australia and many visitors choose from an array of spa and wellbeing experiences to rejuvenate in these magical waters. Trentham is centrally located between the larger, historic regional centres of Ballarat and Bendigo.
Daylesford
Daylesford established in 1852 as a gold-mining town is now a notable tourist destination attracting people to the tranquillity of its natural beauty, its numerous natural spring mineral spas and its restaurants, galleries and gardens. A snapshot follows.
Australian Tourism Award Winner, the Convent Gallery was a Victorian mansion built in the 1860's which has been restored to its original splendour to house a number of galleries featuring work by local, national and international artists. The Gallery is surrounded by six acres of fragrant gardens. The views over Daylesford and beyond are unforgettable.
Cliffy's Emporium is a produce store, wine bar and café which offers the largest range of local and regional produce, with an emphasis on seasonal and organic.
Built in 1857, The Farmers Arms is the oldest pub in Daylesford and offers the perfect blend of country charm combined with a sophisticated menu, wine list and professional service.
Historic Hepburn Springs is in the middle of Australia's largest concentration of mineral springs. Indulge in hydrotherapy, massage and beauty therapy at the lavishly refurbished Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, established in 1895.
Kyneton
Kyneton dates back to the Gold Rush era when it was a major supply town for the diggings. It's well worth setting aside an afternoon to browse along Piper Street which was the town's original commercial centre and is now a historical precinct featuring a large collection of historic bluestone buildings including cafes, antique shops, galleries and the Kyneton Museum. The Kyneton Botanic Gardens date back to the 1860s. Try the picturesque Campaspe River Walk.
Woodend
This former nineteenth century resort town offers guesthouses, large private gardens, a racecourse, golf club and hotels. Shop for antiques or find boutique giftware. Try the genuine craft beer bottled and kegged at the Holgate Brewhouse. The highlight of any visit is to climb nearby Hanging Rock, which featured in the film Picnic at Hanging Rock.
Mount Macedon
Tree-clad Mount Macedon can be seen from every corner of the region. At the summit The Memorial Cross commemorates Australia's war fallen. The view from the cross takes in the entire southern plain towards Port Philip Bay. On the way down from the summit you can glimpse magnificent mansions and exotic European plantings that change with every season. There are delightful food stores, nurseries and galleries in the quaint village of Mount Macedon.
