Escape: Daylesford, Victoria, Australia

Approximately 115 kilometers north-west of Melbourne lies Daylesford, a small spa town at the base of the Great Dividing Range. The area, including nearby Hepburn Springs, is famous for its mineral springs, restaurants, galleries and wellness retreats. There is plenty to do in the area, from picnicking by the picturesque Lake Daylesford, wandering the botanic gardens at Wombat Hill, getting pampered at the Hepburn Springs Bathhouse or simply enjoying a glass of wine curled up by an open fire at one of the numerous hotels or bed and breakfasts in the area.

We like to visit in autumn or winter when the leaves have changed and the natural mineral springs soothe away the winter cold.
ELE tip: The area can get busy over holidays and long weekends so book in advance or consider a mid-week escape.
Eat
Kazuki’s – impeccible service and stunning food, this Japanese influenced restaurant well deserves the Age Good Food Guide chef’s hat is has been awarded http://www.kazukis.com.au
Wombat Hill House Cafe – nestled in the botanic gardens there is no better place to sit among the vegetable garden or inside by the roaring fire with a plate full of gorgeous food http://www.wombathillhouse.com.au/
The Farmer’s Arms – country charm, great food and a pretty beer garden http://www.thefarmersarms.com.au

Play
Bromley and Co – gallery and retail space of acclaimed artist David Bromley http://www.bromleyandco.com
Lake Daylesford – Take a wander around the pretty lake or stop for a picnic by the shore
Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens – Wander through the gardens and catch some great views across town
Hepburn Bathhouse – soothe away the aches and pains at this historic bathhouse http://www.hepburnbathhouse.com

Stay
Lakehouse – a restaurant, hotel and spa perched on the edge of the lake http://www.lakehouse.com.au
Stayz.com.au has a range of self catering cottages to suit all tastes and budgets