Hanging Rock – Bendigo – Daylesford – 2 Days
Discover a new corner of Victoria’s big backyard. There are wineries to indulge in, potteries to discover, fine art to admire, lavender to breathe in and mineral spas to soak in. The Bendigo, Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region directly to the North West of Melbourne is steeped in folklore and history. There is so much to see and do on this 2 day experience, but be rest assured there is still plenty of time to take it all in and relax in the spectacular surroundings.
Language:
English
Duration: 2 Days
Start: 0900 day 1 Thursday
Min: 2 adult
Max: 10 people
Departures: On demand
Itinerary
Day 1 Melbourne to Hanging Rock & Bendigo
Ever heard of a place called Hanging Rock? Perhaps in conjunction with the word Picnic? Most Australians will recall the famous book or film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’. Our fist port of call will be this iconic destination. However, there will be no strenuous hiking or getting lost in the infamous woods for us today. We visit Hanging Rock winery which has been making wines of distinction for over 30 years and take in the spectacular vistas whilst enjoying a sip or two of the multi award winning drop. From here we head to Bendigo, at one time it was the richest city in the world. It has been attracting people from across the globe since the gold rush days. These days the fortune hunters have been replaced by creative tree changers which have brought with them their passion for art, design, food and wine.
On arrival lunch is served at the Shamrock Hotel followed by a visit to Bendigo Pottery, where you will not only gain an insight into historic and modern ceramic production, but also have the opportunity to learn the skill during a hands on “wheel throwing” lesson. We visit Bendigo Art Gallery, one of the oldest and largest regional galleries in Australia. It’s home to an extensive Australian painting, sculpture, ceramics and photography collection.
Afterwards we fully immerse ourselves in the regions history (all be it with more comfort than our gold seeking predecessors!!) by checking into our beautiful accommodation for the night. You have the option of “glamping” or hotel accommodation.
Dinner is served in the winery restaurant.
Overnight: Balgownie Estate Winery Retreat
Day 2 Daylesford
This morning we head towards the stunning Daylesford/Hepburn Springs region, famous for its natural mineral springs and is known as the Spa Centre of Australia. First up is a visit to the magnificent Covent Gallery, a modernised artist retreat nestled amongst Wombat Hill in Daylesford. The setting and its’ history is spectacular. From here we take the short trip out to Lavandula Swiss Italian farm where we have the opportunity to meander around the amazing grounds and historic buildings. Every season reveals lavender in a different light.
A visit to the region would not be complete without lunch at the award winning Lake House Restaurant, boasting 2 hats, Australian Gourmet Traveller describes it as “the success story of regional dining that everyone looks to for inspiration”. We relax after this glorious experience with a stroll by the lake before the final piece de resistance, the true definition of bliss, a 1 hour mineral spring bath. After an eventful 2 days experiencing the highlights of the region we return to Melbourne late evening.
Highlights / Inclusions
- Small group touring with like-minded people
- Expert local guide for personalised experience
- Hotel pick up and drop off
- Wine tasting at Hanging Rock Winery
- Wheel throwing lesson
- Accommodation at Balgownie Estate Winery Retreat (“glamping option”)
- Tour and entry into Lavandula Swiss Italian farm
- The Convent Gallery Daylesford
- Lunch at the award winning Lake House Restaurant
- 1 hour bath
- Meals as per itinerary
- Immersive, interactive experiences