Daylesford Melbourne
A charming spa town renowned for its mineral springs, gourmet food, and picturesque landscapes, just a short drive from Melbourne.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Markets and fresh finds
Daylesford Melbourne
Best Time
Markets and fresh finds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming spa town renowned for its mineral springs, gourmet food, and picturesque landscapes, just a short drive from Melbourne.
"Daylesford offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culinary delights, and natural beauty for a memorable getaway."
Taste the Mineral Waters
Sample the unique natural mineral waters from various springs around town. :droplet:
Explore Antique Shops
Hunt for treasures at the Amazing Mill Market and other vintage stores. :antique_shop:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Hepburn Springs
Relax and rejuvenate in mineral-rich waters, a perfect escape for a cool day.

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
Near Daylesford
Wander through fragrant lavender fields and enjoy a charming cafe experience.

Daylesford Sunday Market
Daylesford Station
Discover local produce, vintage treasures, and handmade goods in a vibrant atmosphere.

Lake Daylesford
Daylesford
Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, perfect for picnics and scenic views.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Spots
Consider Your Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taste the Mineral Waters
Sample the unique natural mineral waters from various springs around town.
:droplet:Explore Antique Shops
Hunt for treasures at the Amazing Mill Market and other vintage stores.
:antique_shop:Don't Miss Lavender Scones
Try the famous lavender scones and lattes at local cafes.
:scone:Dog-Friendly Adventures
Many spots, like Lavandula Farm and Lake Daylesford, welcome your furry friends.
:dog:Tips
from all over the internet
Taste the Mineral Waters
Sample the unique natural mineral waters from various springs around town.
:droplet:Explore Antique Shops
Hunt for treasures at the Amazing Mill Market and other vintage stores.
:antique_shop:Don't Miss Lavender Scones
Try the famous lavender scones and lattes at local cafes.
:scone:Dog-Friendly Adventures
Many spots, like Lavandula Farm and Lake Daylesford, welcome your furry friends.
:dog:Vintage Train Ride
Enjoy a scenic journey on a vintage train to Bullarto.
:train2:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Daylesford is widely praised for its charming atmosphere, excellent food scene, and relaxing spa experiences. Visitors love the unique attractions like the lavender farm and mineral springs, as well as the vibrant Sunday market. Some find public transport challenging and recommend booking popular spots in advance.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to travel from Melbourne to Daylesford is by car, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you don't have a car, consider public transport options like buses, though they can be less frequent and direct. Some travelers opt for private transfers or tours from Melbourne.Public transport options from Melbourne to Daylesford are limited. While buses are available, they may not be as frequent or convenient as driving.
It's often recommended to have a car for exploring the Daylesford region.From Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), the most convenient way to reach Daylesford is by car, which takes about 1.5 hours.
You can rent a car at the airport or arrange for a private transfer. Public transport would involve multiple changes and is not ideal.While it's possible to reach Daylesford without a car, it requires more planning. You can take a bus from Melbourne, but local transport within Daylesford and to surrounding attractions is limited.
Many visitors find having a car essential for exploring the area fully.Yes, several tour operators offer day trips and weekend getaways from Melbourne to Daylesford, often including visits to spas, farms, and local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Daylesford itself is free. However, individual attractions like the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, and the vintage train rides have their own admission fees.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets and sessions for the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa in advance, especially for weekend visits, as they can get fully booked.
The Daylesford Sunday Market typically runs from 9 AM to 2 PM every Sunday. It's a popular spot, so arriving earlier can help you get the best selection.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee for Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, usually around $5 per person, which grants you access to the gardens and farm.
The vintage train ride from Daylesford to Bullarto typically costs between $19-$22 for a one-hour return trip. Booking online or at the station is advised.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Must-do activities include relaxing at the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, exploring Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, visiting the Daylesford Sunday Market, and walking around Lake Daylesford.
Yes, Daylesford offers several beautiful walking trails. Lake Daylesford has an easy 2.8km loop, and the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens provide scenic paths with great views.
Daylesford can be a great destination for families. Activities like the vintage train ride, exploring the lake, and visiting farms can be enjoyable for children.
Daylesford is famous for its natural mineral springs. You can visit reserves like Central Springs Reserve to taste the naturally carbonated water directly from the aquifer.
Absolutely! Daylesford is a haven for antique lovers, with the Amazing Mill Market being a major drawcard, offering a vast collection of vintage items and collectibles.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Daylesford boasts a fantastic food scene. Popular choices include Bistrot Terroir, Farmers Arms Hotel for pub fare, and The Convent for scones and cafe delights.
Don't miss the lavender scones and lattes, delicious donuts from the market, and the renowned vanilla slice from RedBeard Bakery in nearby Trentham.
Yes, Daylesford has many charming cafes. Cliffy's Emporium offers great brunch, and The Convent Gallery has a lovely cafe with pretty gardens.
Lakehouse is highly regarded for its exceptional food, often described as 'off the chart good,' making it a top dining choice in Daylesford.
Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm offers a delightful cafe experience, with many visitors recommending their lavender scones and lattes.
📸 📸 Photography
Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm with its lavender fields and cottages, Lake Daylesford with its serene waters, and the charming main street are all highly photogenic.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful soft light for photographing Lake Daylesford, creating a tranquil and picturesque scene.
Yes, the bustling Daylesford Sunday Market provides plenty of opportunities to capture vibrant scenes of local produce, crafts, and people.
Wandering along the main street and capturing the unique shopfronts, historic buildings, and street art will give you a great sense of Daylesford's charm.
While you can take photos of the exterior and general areas of the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, photography inside the bathing areas may be restricted for privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers & Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Healing Waters of Hepburn Springs
While the mineral waters are a major draw, some travelers suggest that other experiences in Daylesford might offer better value than the spa itself. Regardless, the unique geological heritage and the focus on wellness make the mineral springs a defining feature of the Daylesford region, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The natural springs are a key part of the 'Daylesford experience' and a must-try for many.
A Culinary Journey Through Daylesford
Beyond the market and cafes, Daylesford boasts a sophisticated dining scene. Bistrot Terroir and Winespeake are frequently recommended for their excellent food and wine pairings, while the Farmers Arms Hotel is known for its hearty pub fare. For a truly memorable meal, Lakehouse is often cited as having 'off the chart good' food. Nearby Trentham also offers culinary gems, such as the historic RedBeard Bakery, famous for its vanilla slice.
Exploring Daylesford's Natural Beauty and Charm
For a unique sensory experience, the Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm is a must-visit. Its fragrant lavender fields, charming cottages, and delightful cafe create a picturesque escape. The region also offers opportunities for gentle adventure, such as the vintage train ride from Daylesford to Bullarto, providing scenic views of the countryside. Many visitors also appreciate the opportunity to explore the antique shops, particularly the vast Amazing Mill Market, for unique finds and a glimpse into the past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit