A wonderful place to shop for fruit, veggies, plants, fresh produce and specially local farm eggs which were of good quality with hard shell and bright color yolk which is proof of good quality. I will definitely come to this place for my shopping from melton. The staff was very helpful.

Lovely staff and prompt service.

I always stop in off freeway on way past for the best new seasons apples, wax free and fresh off the tree. Other local produce good and flagons of apple cider vinegar are a winner! Always friendly staff.

What a horrible place, recommeded to my friends to stop here for a coffee which was beautifully brewed and wanted to purchase some local fresh unique produce. No prices on anything and plenty of 'no stealing signs' which is always welcoming to the majority of decent people. Accidentally knocked over an item at the overly stocked counter and 3 staff came from no where glaring at us as if we were criminals, didnt serve us and when asked to be served the older woman said "you will have to pay for that broken item" it wasnt our fault your counter has no where to place our items to purchase and it was glass! No concern if we were ok, just allowed customers to walk over it. The lady proceeded to argue with us rudely pointing her finger and saying she did not want customers like us in her store. Shocked people like this still exist, will never visit again!

Came to get a little piece of honeycomb to find its sold in $30 chucks and when I asked if it's possible to get it in a smaller amount as it just for the kids to try and the $30 piece is too much and be a waste. Plus I can buy it at woolworths and online for $10 And the girl says "no that's the way it is" Here I am thinking smaller towns have more accommodating people. Guess not. Least the scenery was nice on the drive up and back. 👍

We are local and only buy all our fruit and Veg at Jonesy’s. love it and love the staff. If your from out of town this is the place to stop if you want to take home some Great local produce

Very good produce and always great service. The ladies down there always slice up my fresh pineapple beautifully for me. Thank you ladies !

So so so beautiful. One of my favourite hikes I’ve been on since I started hiking. The weather was amazing. The hike was relatively challenging, with a few rocky bits, but was very much worth it.

It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Victoria, perfect for any sunny day, whether in summer or winter. Some sections can be challenging, with slippery rocks and small areas where you need to lean on the rocks and hold a rope, so it’s not suitable for everyone—especially young children or the elderly. Definitely worth visiting, and I’d happily go again.

Beautiful walk through the Werribee gorge. The weather was on our side! Great challenges, and amazing views and scenery throughout. Thoroughly enjoyed the river walk and the beach area was excellent for a lunch stop. Highly recommend to take your time and enjoy this little bit of nature.

It was a very interesting trail comprises of walk by the beautiful stream, narrow cliff side walk, crossing huge rocks with rope support, uphill and downhill, beaches to swim. We in our 60s took approximately 4hrs to complete the Waribee Curcuit with stops for photo-taking.. we all had enjoyed the trail. Yes the anticlockwise could be a better direction to have the cliff narrow path and crossing the big rocks with rope support at the end of the trail..Strongly recommended.

I've walked both the short circuit and long and neither are overly difficult hikes. There are a couple of long steeper sections on both trails but nothing that will kill you. Slow and steady. Signage is ok. Could be better. But trail is pretty easy to identify without the signs. Although id still recommend having a digital or paper map with you as a backup. Not an overly scenic trail though. The nicest part is to the south along the creek. The majority of the trail is though the middle of the bush so not many lookouts along the way. Parking and toilet provisions are good. 3.5 stars because of the lack of scenery and the noise from the freeway on the northern end is a bit of a downer.

A fantastic place. Even on a grey, rainy day! Lots of options for trails too for different levels of trekkers. Easy or hard as you like. The low track runs along the creek (where we took a freezing but liberating dip) with a section you can climb across, which was good fun. We didn’t spot any koalas but apparently it’s known for a lot of sightings. Tip: park in bottom car park so you don’t finish your trek and have to walk uphill to get to your car!

amazing trail, lots of different walking options for different fitness levels and the picnic areas and nicely sectioned away from the trail. giving minus one star because the lookout point circuit is a little confusing. If you make it to the top, be mindful of signs.

Just like all the other gardens that are part of The Diggers Club, this garden is a lovely place to spend some time in to enjoy the beauty of the plants and trees. There is a cafe and a great garden shop onsite. Friendly welcoming staff.

Not worth the detour to visit. Was $15 each entry, which felt steep for what was there. Some trees were labled, but not other plants. There was some nice garden art, and the espaliered trees were good. It wasn't particularly inspiring - there was nothing we saw that made us go "oh let's copy this" or "what and interesting plant/idea" The plants were expensive (even if you had a membership) and the seeds weren't cheap. Particularly given the entry fee we had paid.

The Garden of St Erth nursery and café in Blackwood is an amazing escape for nature lovers and foodies alike! 🌿 Nestled in the stunning Wombat State Forest, this beautiful spot offers a serene atmosphere to explore vibrant gardens filled with seasonal blooms. 🌸 But don’t miss out on the café, where the scones are an absolute must-try! 🍰 Freshly baked and served warm, they’re perfectly fluffy and come with delish jam and cream that’ll have you coming back for more. Whether you’re stocking up on heirloom plants, or simply enjoying a cuppa, The Garden of St Erth is a perfect destination for a relaxing day out! 🌟

Very nice gardens,well worth the admission price. Cafe has nice but limited selection of offerings. But lovely friendly staff. Recommend the dips and scones. Shop and plant nursery is stocked with variety you'll never see at the local Bunnings :)

We were very underwhelmed by the garden today. The garden outside the cottage was sparse and disappointing. For a $15 per person entry fee we didn’t expect to see blackberries, weeds and Scottish thistle amongst the beds. We thought the entry fee was a lot for our experiences in the garden today. There were six of us and we walked around separately and all came to the same conclusions. The lack of name plates on the plants was also disappointing. The lunch in the cafe was lovely.

Went to the cafe today after walking the Whipstick Loop and it was a delightful experience! I got the tomato and lentil soup and it was so flavourful and perfect for a fairly cold day. Dessert was a blueberry cheesecake that had me drooling! The lovely woman working both the store and the cafe was so attentive and sweet and made a wonderful coffee! Highly recommend stopping in after a walk through the gardens or nearby trails!

Oh, it was heavenly smell beautiful roses in the garden this morning when I stepped in. I was almost cry with joy by surrounding peaceful nature. The garden was well design, and cafe is nicely setting, shop’s lady was very kindly helped me for my questions. $10 enter fee was I thought bit over charge but if money goes to maintain this beautiful garden, I’m happy to pay:) I bought 3 pots of flowers and a bag of seeds. They are rear plants which I can’t find in local nursery. This place is heaven for gardening lovers.

Beautiful gardens. Recommend to take the scenic drive around the property first. Signs are located as soon as you drive in. It will bring you up to a carpark. Perfect place to take in the views, have a picnic, or short stroll to the wonderful cafe. Allow yourself a few hours or plan the day. Public Toilets are available. Beautiful walking trails amongst the trees, gorgeous unique flowers. Highly recommend the cafe for a bite and coffee.

Lovely little walk with magnificent trees and flowers along the way to a yummy cafe which located on the grounds. My son loves to climb the tower and taking photos of almost every tree there. We are visiting this place several times a year at different seasons of school holidays.

"Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in Daylesford. The gardens are immaculately maintained, with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and stunning views over the town. The walk to the top of the hill offers panoramic vistas, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The historical significance of the gardens adds to the charm, and the on-site café is a great place to grab a coffee while soaking in the surroundings. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing day out, Wombat Hill is definitely worth a visit!"

If you in Daylesford, go and see this little botanic garden. A little bit neglected but just in the right way to make your mind wander... Go on a quiet evening and watch the sunset or marvel at some of the big feature trees. Don't forget to walk through the fernery below the car park...

Very pleasant surroundings. Scenic drive. Tower walk. Cafe. Plenty of parking. BBQ shed. Facilities. Short walk to cafe. Oh, they have a cannon, too.

Absolutely gorgeous! Just go! But goneatly if you want a coffee, cafe closes not long after lunch.

Nice cafe to soak up the surroundings and enjoy some breakfast. Good collection of sandwiches and pastries in the counter for a smaller snack. Dog friendly too!

Beautiful spot for a walk around the lake. It took us about an hour with three kids in tow (one in pram). It's reasonably pram friendly, however, be mindful of extremely steep hills! There's a couple of them. The playground is fully fenced, which is a massive bonus!

Stunning lake. Great walking tracks. Well kept areas. But the little coffee place is terrible. The wait was ridiculous and I wouldn't think you could muck up making a peppermint tea.

Beautiful spot fot a day trip. So serene... so beautiful. The walk around the lake is full of tranquility. A must-go-to spot... be it summer, winter, spring or autumn... as each season this place has it own different beauty.

Within walking distance of town, Lake Daylesford is a man-made lake that was built in the 1930’s. On arrival, early in the morning, a mist was rising from the water. The picturesque lake offers a ‘peace mile’ walking track which is almost 3 k’s long. There is also plenty to do here, swimming, fishing and birdwatching. There is a playground, paddleboats (but I don’t think they have seen much action for a while) BBQ’s and table and chairs. Food, coffee and comfort facilities onsite too. Well worth a visit if you are in town

Nice, calm, and peaceful scenery 😌 Guards your food. The ducks in the lake can be naughty! 👀 I visited on a Monday summer night with friends around 4.30ish. There were only us on the deck. It was perfect day to chill. Lovely place.

One of the most popular and photogenic place in Daylesford. This place is stunning 😍 in Autumn 🍂 with the beautiful colours. Perfect place to spend a day and relax.

Such a beautiful place.. Visited in April so go to see beautiful fall colours.. driving from Melbourne to Daylesford is so scenic and beautiful. This place is very calm, peaceful and scenic. A good walk..not difficult at all.. nice place to spend time with family.. Public toilets are available. Coffee and basic snack places are available too.

Mixed reaction here. Pools and spa were great, but there wasn't really enough space for the volume of people. One pool for basic entry, pay extra for the other 3 pools and sauna. Per earlier the pools are beautiful: fresh, different temps, one with beds to lie in the water, very clean facilities. But the pools themselves fit about 10 ppl in before you're feeling crowded, which took away from the relaxation side of things. Recommended trying it to see if it works for you.

Disappointing experience. I have been wanting to come here for years and it was such a let down. The communal space is too small for the volume of people they allow in at a given time. It's advertised as a relaxation haven, but instead it had more of a local pool feel. There were too many children splashing around and jumping in. We visited off peak too. I'm a mother myself and am positive towards allowing children in, but perhaps have an adults only section that doesn't cost double the price. The staff assume you have been before and were vague and disinterested. There were no cups at the hydrating station and no lifeguards/staff to be seen to ask if they could refill them. The only positives are the tranquil setting, nestled deep in Hepburn and the bathrooms are clean and well stocked with essentials. Save your money and go to Peninsula Hot Springs instead. Same price and way better value for money.

Very disappointed with this experience! Do not recommend it at all! Very overpriced for what they got to offer! Water temperature was just like the local swimming pool. Only 1 slightly larger and 1 small pool to choose from. No outdoor spa, no cold plunge pool. Paid $60 for the same experience that could have been much less to go to a public swimming pool, not relaxing, not hot at all. Only 1 change room for male and female together! It was ridiculously awkward and weird! The conditioner bottle was totally empty, it shows that no one maintain or clean the area for days. I'm just glad that I only wasted $60 without choosing any other package as they can't even uphold the most basic general experience.

Unfortunately disappointed in my experience here. You are paying a pretty large fee for use of what is in effect 1 heated pool and 1 hot tub that due to the large volume of people they allow access to at one time doesn’t allow for a calming or relaxing experience. Whilst I respect the decision to allow children access I do feel it would be appropriate to have an adult only of child friendly zone. In comparison to other bath house experience I’ve had for a similar price point I’ve found this one lack luster.

Well worth the trip to relax and enjoy this beautiful setting. Very friendly and welcoming staff added to the overall experience in the mineral spa. We didn’t stay in the hotel but had a pleasant experience in the spa. Thank you for having us

My sister and I had the most relaxing weekend away at Hepburn. We both started with a treatment at the spa, where we were treated to the best facial we've ever had. I have sensitive skin, so facials can be hit and miss, but none of the products irritated my skin, which was great. We then had a 90min bathing session, followed by a wander through the spa apothecary. Here, Michael was absolutely amazing, and helped us concoct our own bath scrub and bath soak. I can't rate this experience highly enough! The rest of our weekend was equally as relaxing, with a stay in one of the escape villas and dinner at a local restaurant. If you're in need of rejuvenation, Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa will not disappoint!

We had the most amazing weekend at the bathhouse. The room was beautiful! Staff were friendly and welcoming. The bathhouse pools and spas were glorious. I can not fault any part of our experience. We didn’t want to leave.

We booked in for a 90 min aqua retreat bathing and a 90 min massage/facial and had an overall pleasant and wonderful experience. The only issue I'd highlight is that I wouldn't trust their "mineral water" claim because our hands were pruning up pretty badly in the short time we're allowed in their pools which suggests it was really just hot water instead (if you've been to places with proper mineral water, you'll notice that you can bathe for hours in their waters and your hands don't prune up). Their aqua retreat section had 2 pools at 38 degrees, and a "cold pool" that was about 20 degrees, all of which has nice views outside, it also has saunas, a steam room, shower, a dry seating room and an outdoor sun lounge on a deck overlooking their well landscaped gardens, no toilet though (you have to leave the area for that). Tea and tap water available in the area. They clean the cups very frequently but I wonder if sometimes they just do a quick rinse because one of the cups I picked up to drink water from had remnants of tea taste around the rim which surprised me but also that could've been done by another customer instead. Price guide as of March 2025: 90 min retreat access $90 90 min massage/facial $265 (Price includes robe, towel and locker) Booking made via phone, full payment made on booking, no surcharge on card. Free parking available. All you'll need to bring are slippers and swimwear.

We had a revitalising experience at the Mineral Spa. We chose the bathing package that included 1 hour of relaxing bliss. Access to two spa’s, steam room and two saunas with a cold plunge pool. Tea and water provided, bath robes and towels provided, along with a locker. Had an area outdoors with sun-loungers and indoor sitting area. Perfect place to unwind and feel pampered!

We had a really lovely morning at The Mineral Spa. We bookeda breakfast ans bathe package. First we went to the dining room for a breakfast that we chose from a menu. About 8 choices, with yoghurt and pastries and fruit on our table also. Unlimited drinks. After a relaxing hour and a half we went to the spa. We were given robes and towells to use. There was two spa pools with a plunge pool between. There was also a sauna and steam room. Water and herbal teas were provided too. Three couples were using the area. We had an hour and a half or so in the spa area. We really enjoyed our moring. It was one of the highlights of our trip.

Thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We had a private couples spa experience first and then spent an hour in the retreat between pools and sauna rooms. The ladies at the front desk were lovely, and showed us around first and gave me ideas for the weekend as well. Session is limited in numbers which was fantastic and we basically had each spa or sauna to ourselves. There were definitely male and female change rooms at this facility. This was our first mineral spa’s experience and being a ‘bigger’ girl I was a little nervous, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Quite a pleasant experience. My wife and I paid for a couple's massage which was both enjoyable and reasonably priced. The lounge before and after was very quiet and comfortable, though as a taller man I could have used a longer robe. The tea and dried fruits were also a nice touch. They provide complimentary lockers which was very convenient. The massage itself was relaxing, and I would consider returning.

Our experience was not bad! I would recommend 👌 for those who would like to try it. We were taken to a private area with 6 other people who were also booked in for 1 hour at 6pm. There are 2 hot pools overlooking the garden and 1 cold plunge in the middle with 3 different types of saunas to the side. They have robes and towels provided. NO PHOTOS ALLOWED!

My partner and I booked in for a private 30 min bath and a 1 hour relaxation massage. It was decent, however the spa water was scalding when we originally got in and took a while to adjust to a temperature that didn't make us feel like we were going to faint or be sick. We did have a good time in the spa overall. As for the massage, it was pretty good, my partner loved it, and so did I, but the person massaging me massaged the same place near my shoulder blade with an uncomfortable bit of pressure, and I tried to explain that it really hurt in that specific spot, but I'm not sure I clarified enough, so I don't really hold that against her... But as I'm writing this, about 10ish hours after the massage, I'm having a lot of trouble with laying on my back or sitting up. The spa was 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ The massage was probably 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐ If we come back, I think I'll be a bit more clear with my limits Review Edit: I'm bumping this down to 2 stars, because it's now been over 12 hours, and the pain is getting worse and worse as time goes on. I think this is actually some of the worst pain I've ever felt

One day is not enough to see it all. Wow . I totally love it. There's a café where you can take a break and a bite. The staff are wonderful, happy and friendly. A big shout out to Kathy who was The Cherry On Top. Thank you so very much. Totally appreciated .. You. Your kindness meant so much in a world full of grumpy service. 🎉🎖🎉🏆

If you’re heading to Daylesford and think you’ll just “pop in” to the Mill Market—think again. I had to physically usher my mum and sister out after hours of wandering, because we could’ve happily spent the whole day there. This place is a treasure trove. Yes, the vintage wares are incredible—retro furniture, vinyl records, quirky knick-knacks—but it’s not just a nostalgia fest. There’s modern giftware, a garden section with charming outdoor pieces, and even a cozy little café for when your legs give out from browsing. There are toilets on site. One moment I was admiring vintage crystal ware, the next I was face-to-face with a shelf of ventriloquist dolls that were equal parts fascinating and creepy. (Seriously, they looked like they had stories to tell—and not all of them wholesome.) Whether you’re a collector, a curious wanderer, or just someone who loves a good rummage, the Mill Market is a must. Just be warned: time disappears in there.

The Amazing Mill Markets in Daylesford is a treasure trove of vintage and antique goodies, spread over 6 acres with 300+ car spaces. Discover unique items, retro fashion, collectibles and more at this massive indoor market, open daily from 10am-6pm, with an onsite cafe to refuel"

This second-hand market is absolutely incredible — probably the largest in all of Victoria, even bigger than the one in Geelong! 🏺 Every section is so well organized, and you can easily spend an entire day wandering around discovering treasures. From antique furniture and vintage clothes to rare collectibles, there’s just so much to explore. The atmosphere is relaxed yet full of life, with friendly stall owners and lots of hidden gems waiting to be found. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love browsing unique finds, this place is an absolute must-visit when you come to Daylesford. Trust me, you won’t leave empty-handed — or disappointed!

Full of many treasurers . Lots of books, furniture, bric a brac , anything you can imagine. Great outdoor garden nursery full of plants and other surprises.

We visited these aptly named markets 7 years ago in 2018 and we had to revisit again. Being from Perth, WA - we don’t have anything that remotely resembles these incredible markets. So much variety and such quirkiness. We only had 2 hours here but easily spend a couple of days going through everything. We were concerned Our 2 young teenage boys wouldn’t last half an hour but even they found interest and lasted 1.5 hours before they got bored and wanted out. Thankfully the cafe onsite managed to placate them for a tad longer (although the sausage roll did take 20 minutes…) but their nougat made up for it and was amazing! Love the Eiffel Tower and gorilla out front! Will try to squeeze in another visit before we head home.

I have never been anyplace quite like this. I could spend all day and still have not explored all their is to see.

Absolutely amazing time we had here. We had the gatehouse room sleeps 6!! Loved having the castle to ourselves (and the few other residents) after hours, kids have has the best time even with no amusements on. The castle is amazing to explore and do the maze in the dark by moon light. Location is great too. Just far enough out of Ballarat to be quiet and remote but local enough to drive into town for dinner and back. ☺️ Kids have asked to come back already and we haven't left yet. Lots of activities for everyone to get involved in and staff have been super friendly and helpful. ☺️ Definitely on our list of places to come back to ❤️

We stayed at a caravan site and had park entrance. The site was fantastic! 10/10 you really can’t go wrong with any site! They are all fabulous! The park was wonderful. The kids had a great time, the staff are wonderful and the acting from the charters in the park was fantastic. I don’t usually rate anything but this 100% exceeded our expectations!

Came during school holidays for the goblins and fairies activities and were disappointed as there simply wasn’t anything on! Website says there’s fairies, goblins, wizards etc and characters wandering around with activities to do - nothing like that on all day! Incredibly overpriced and be aware everything inside costs extra and is an obvious money grab. Jousting lasted 20 mins, eatery sold out of everything good before 2pm and all the stores (which are permanent rentals) were overpriced for Temu items. It’s incredibly small also, thought it’d take a day to see, we were done pretty quickly and it does close quite early. Animals are also kept in small, dirty pens during the castle opening hours. Poor Kevin the peacock was a particularly sad sight to see. Also not accessible for the elderly or disabled - no ramps at all, incredibly unstable and hilly stoned paths/roads. Disappointing. We stayed in a King room overnight, again highly overpriced for what you get. Avoid in Winter as big gap under the front door would make it freezing. Dirty bathroom, no water pressure, lumpy mattress. Wouldn’t recommend staying here!

Went to a Halloween event over the weekend. Found the whole experience and what the grounds have to offer extremely underwhelming. Definitely cannot spend a whole day there as there’s minimal to see and do. Quite boring, even for the little kids. Shows were the highlight of the visit. Overpriced for what it is. Our first and last visit there. Do not recommend.

Haven't been here since I was a kid. Took my family with me. And we loved every bit of it! Food was great. The entertainment was abustly amazing. My highlight was having a great chat to the blacksmith. Definitely coming back again!

We took the family up for the faries, goblins and knights school holiday fun and my girls had a blast. They were dressed up as fairies and searched the grounds for different things. They got to be apart of giving the favour to one of the knights and were so excited. All the characters make it super fun. I do love coming here

Interesting place and the unicorn festival was particularly fun for kids. Not sure what it's like on a normal day. I wouldn't go out of my way for it normally but in this case we drove out an hour or so and had a nice day. (And Google, it's not a hotel so I can't comment on the rooms etc!)

Husband and I loved our visit on Wednesday! We were there for roughly 5 hours and there was plenty to see and do that we didn't have much down time or waiting around. Wasn't too busy which was a bonus, so we got to quietly enjoy a lot of the experiences and shops minus the 2-3 school excursions running around, but we didn't cross paths often. The staff did a wonderful job at making the experience feel immersive and authentic, and we loved that there were things to enjoy as adults. Definitely recommend buying the mine tour or the photo time slot in advance!

A fantastic day or 2 out for the whole family. Step back in time and explore Australia's gold rush history. Cute shops, delicious food from a bakery to a Cafe. We live how the staff are not only in costumes but character too. The displays, tours are really well done.

While visiting Vic/Ballarat area thought I'd pop into here for something to do. Allocated a few hours. Ended up staying all day. It was incredible. Best way to describe it was a living museum. The staff there (mostly volunteer) were all in character and dressed up and so amazingly friendly. Themed so well and had a fantastic time. Highly recommended this place and I'll certainly go back. Did a mine tour as well and found that fascinating.

Visiting Sovereign Hill felt like stepping straight into the 1850s. The whole place brings the gold rush era to life with incredible detail, from the mining demonstrations to the dusty streets and costumed characters. We tried our hand at gold panning and, to our surprise, actually found gold! It was such a fun, hands‑on moment that made the day unforgettable. A brilliant experience for anyone wanting history with a bit of adventure.

We attended Aura at Sovereign hill and it was a fantastic experience. The 3 elements of the show were great, breaking up the story telling and the way it was showcased was a great way to see and hear the story. There was a school attending the same night we did (roughly 60ish students) but the team did a great job of moving everyone around through the 3 different experiences. Really worth the visit.

Solid gold. Sovereign Hill is a family friendly romp through early gold mining in Victoria, historical town with a unique blend of hand tools and functioning Industrial Revolution technologies make this a prize in Victoria. From the shops to the Poppet head frame a variety of interesting artifacts and a knowledgeable period attired staff that are eager to explain the town. This will take 4-6 hours to get a good self-guided tour. The gardens on the hill are a pleasant diversion from the rustic backdrop, don’t miss it!!

Even as adults we had a lovely day there, even with a sprinkle of rain. Still have the same memories of the place from 20+ years ago, which speaks to their upholding of the heritage component of the place. Underground tour was great, candy shop was delicious. Red Coats March is a must attend.

I went there today. The best thing about this gallery is location which is close to station and shopping areas. Some of the collections were amazing and visiting it is completely free of charge. Just one show these days is a paid one. There were works from a ballarat based artist which were superb. The gallery also had a gift shop to purchase souvenirs as well as a cafe for relaxing. The washrooms were very clean. The staff was really nice. Overall it was a good experience.

We liked this gallery as it was quiet and well-maintained. It wasn’t a big place, they offered about five different exhibitions, from classic paintings to modern art. They also had a small shop and a cafe on the ground floor, which was nice and cozy.

A well maintained art gallery with beautiful paintings. The guided tour was also very interesting and informative. There were some nice books in the store downstairs as well.

The gallery resides in a beautiful building that dates back to the town's gold rush boom years. Free entry to see a great collection of Australian and European art with some dating back to 1800 or earlier. There were also temporary exhibitions and modern art installations. Apparently only 2% of their art is able to be displayed there at any one time so it may be worth a follow up visit later on.

I went to the Art Gallery of Ballarat today on a Friday. It was not busy. Entry was free which is great. Only a few minutes walk from Ballarat railway station. The Gallery is very interesting with a lot of interesting arts. It's very clean and nice like a 5-star hotel. I loved and enjoyed all the arts that they displayed, really appreciate all the staff for taking care of the place so well and highly appreciate all the artists that provided their artwork there.

Beautiful art gallery with interesting and thoughtful art. Place was packed last Sunday despite the rain, the Vintage Car Show, part of Ballarat's Heritage Festival. It was free entry on that day. We had a walk through downstairs but couldn't handle the crowd so didn't make it upstairs. Will be back.

The building is absolutely lovely! It's so nice to see that it was purpose built, and continues to house many creative works of art. Highly recommend a visit if you are in Ballarat.

Always a lovely spot, 6km running/walking/bike track around the lake, getting lights put in which will be great for safety at dusk and early mornings. Lots of bird life, great for kayaking, SUP or windsurfing and fishing. Lots of playgrounds and toilets around every side of the lake.

Really nice spot. We don't have lakes where we live and so found this to be really nice, the style of buildings in this area set a really lovely scene when looking out across the lake and bird life was abundant. We stopped to see at a few different points around the lake, the adventure playground, and some of the boat houses were great. This is also a great spot to go for a jog or just stroll along the walking tracks.

A beautiful spot for a walk, lots a great views to be had of the local bird life and historic buildings. There is a walking track right around the lake, which you can also ride a bike along to. Lots of places to stop and take in the views and capture some great moments. There are several playground around the lake with the main one on the west side near the Botanical Gardens. There are also old tram rides and paddle boat rides at certain time of the year. Small boats and fishing are also allowed on the lake. A great place to visit for the day.

A really beautiful walk around Lake Wendouree. Plenty of wildlife, viewpoints and a few points of interest around the lake. The walk itself is not far at all and the pathways are quite clear and suitable for pushchairs / wheelchairs. Dogs are allowed around the lake (on-leash) and there's a few cafes / restaurants for a coffee and snacks.

Amazing lake which is spread over a vast expanse. It has got walking/ running trail along its edge which provides good opportunity for people run, walk, cycle at their leisure. The lake itself is pretty clean and has got lots of birds and ducks etc. Some people had fishing rods with them as well, not sure if there are any fishes on offer though. Overall a good place to visit if you are in the area.

There's a wonderful walking track that circles this lake (from memory, around 7km) and as if the views across the lake aren't enough, there are some simply lovely botanic gardens, the Robert Clark Conservatory and a few other surprises. I love this track. And if you have the right day for it, the lake is gorgeous at dusk.

The place where you can get connected with the nature sounds and enjoy with your love ones. I really like this lake. The wildlife and surrounding is fantastic. And yeah, Don't Forget the Dawn and Sunset its amazing.

A beautifully maintained and peaceful spot! Ballarat Botanical Gardens is nicely arranged and was already showing signs of vibrant life as it gets ready for the spring bloom. The avenue of former Prime Ministers' statues adds a historical touch. Plenty of black swans and coots from the nearby lake add to the charm. Great for a relaxed, scenic walk. 🌿🦢🌼

We spent the whole day here and had so much fun. Such a beautiful spot. And the kids enjoyed it too. We made a competition about how many statues we could find. Large wooden playground as well and plenty of parking. Good amount of toilet blocks spread out around the area.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Absolutely stunning! The Ballarat Botanical Gardens are a true gem. Strolling along Lake Wendouree with the gardens on one side and the water on the other is pure serenity. The Prime Ministers Avenue is a unique and fascinating walk through Australian political history—each bronze bust is beautifully crafted and adds a thoughtful touch to the experience. The highlight for me was the Conservatory. It's a vibrant burst of colour and fragrance, with seasonal floral displays that are always changing and always spectacular. Whether you're a local or just visiting Ballarat, this place is a must-see. Peaceful, educational, and beautifully maintained—5 stars without hesitation!

A very nicely set out Botanical Gardens. Well maintained. There is a lake nearby as well as a tourist tram. The Avenue of the Former Prime Ministers Statues along the main path in the gardens was interesting to see. It is a peaceful place to have a walk through or to sit and rest. Well worth a look to see.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens is a beautiful, peaceful escape by Lake Wendouree. The gardens blend history, art, and nature perfectly, featuring grand trees, colourful flowerbeds, and the famous Prime Ministers Avenue. The glasshouse and fernery are must-sees, while the lakeside paths are ideal for walks and picnics. It’s well-maintained, family-friendly, and offers seasonal beauty year-round. A true gem showcasing Ballarat’s charm and heritage relaxing, educational, and inspiring all at once.

Ballarat Begonia Festival – A Celebration of Colour and Creativity I recently visited the Tuberous Begonia Collection at the Ballarat Begonia Festival, and it was an absolutely beautiful experience. The vibrant colours, intricate floral displays, and careful presentation showcased not only the elegance of the begonias but also the dedication and artistry behind their cultivation. The atmosphere was welcoming and inspiring, bringing together nature lovers, artists, and families in a shared appreciation of beauty and community spirit. It’s an event that perfectly captures the creativity and warmth of Ballarat. Moments like this remind me that inspiration often blooms where passion and care meet, whether in gardens, workplaces, or communities.

Most stunning and enchanting place to visit! No bookings required. Walk ins and generous parking available. Easy to walk around. Best time to go during Autumn with trees shining with colorful leaves. Well maintained gardens; clean toilets with disability access ♿ Perfect place to visit if you looking for a relaxing day out. Wide range of stunning flowers continue to impress you as you walk around. All botanicals are labelled for easy reference. Beautiful statues including Australia’s prime ministers. Greenhouse is amazing with beautifully arranged plants in a variety of mixed colours. They sell plants near the information centre. Well located and not too far from the city centre. Very friendly staff. Do take a minute to thank them for the stellar job they are doing ✨

Clunes it's a very interesting town it's where Mad Max the movie was made ,cute little town pub ,cafes, and it's where the first town in Victoria Gold was discovered.

Great donated generous collection from locals and nostalgic information from the past. The upstairs part of the museum has so much to look at and absorb. No point just skipping through. I need to return with more time set aside to really appreciate what is on offer. The staff are also so super friendly and knowledgeable.

A medium sized museum in a small town with friendly staff, very clean, well presented museum with very interesting displays. Gold coin donation. Multi level displays. Lift available for those who can't manage stairs or who prefer lifts. Easy Street parking during the weekday. Not sure how busy it gets on weekends. Good selection of brochures from information staff.

Fantastic history of the town all accumulated in a well finished clean, purpose built facility. Great care and effort has been put into this museum and the pride shows. We saw recreations of influential towns people houses, the impact and story of Gold, textile industry history, antique Clunes artefacts donations and the list goes on. Well worth a visit if you are interested knowing more about the town. Gold coin donation.

This regional museum is definitely worth a visit. Behind the facade of one of the original Clunes shopfronts is a recently restored and upgraded modern museum. Wheelchair access, lifts and well presented displays.

They show a Very good history of the area back in the gold days. A lot to learn here and I must go back as I had little time last visit. All good. Jim

A lovely little local museum that contained plenty on information on the town, the Victorian gold rush, and the mid-to-late 1800s.

Grand old building. History laid on.

After receiving state funding from Heritage Victoria the magnificent Maryborough Station underwent a 4‐year three-stage restoration of the façade, the slate roof and clock tower and glazed lantern covering the main carriageway platform completed in 2012. It is a tribute to the Victorian Railways, Architectural Works Department completed in 1890 as an outstanding example to the school of Victorian railway architecture developing a regional rather than national or international modern style. It is one of the finest examples in the country of Queen-Anne architecture which displays many hallmarks of the Anglo‐Dutch style which is enlivened at the roofline with gables and an asymmetrically placed clock tower. During the 1970’s much of the original facade ornamentation, the orbs, pedestals and ball-caps and rendered octagonal chimney crowns were sadly removed. These were carefully re-cast and reinstated as part of the restoration programme. The exterior was re-rendered using Adelaide ‘Brightonlite’ yellow-ocher oxide cement render. The residents of Maryborough were delighted with the result and applauded its face-lift and remarked “this is how it was meant to be” and how they could remember the way the station looked originally. An outstanding feature of Maryborough Station is its long platform covered by a continuous glazed lantern at the apex. This is said to be the longest single platform outside the Melbourne region and measures 1010 meters including the rail motor sidings. Today, Maryborough Station operates an art gallery emporium, a fully licensed restaurant in the grand dining hall (thanks Lloyd) and VLine post and freight services for passenger and goods trains. Maryborough Station is an exceptional country Victorian attraction and well worth the visit. Thank you and all the best, Chris Wilmar

Staff very rude argued over Coke Zero and Diet Coke insisting no difference in taste Meal average Only good thing is the cheese cake Service poor

On our way home to Mount Gambier today we stopped in to Marlborough station hoping for coffee and early feed....OMG we were not disappointed... The best cooked breakfast I have ever experienced....every mouthful delicious and well presented...chai late..prefect... What lovely friendly staff.....amazing atmosphere....do your self a favour if travelling and looking for a good feed...worth the stop....

Friendly service. Great coffee.

Liked our stop over at the lookout. Nice view overlooking the city.

A great place for walking your dog or you self

Great view from the top

Great monument located on a little hill on the outskirts of town. Awsome views of the local area and surrounding hills. Will return again tomorrow.

Fantastic views of Maryborough

Great look out point for the area. Worth the stop if you've got spare time.

Explored Bristol Hill tracks on my mountain bike found many many challenging tracks ile be back more often for shaw

Site states it is open from 9 AM. Drove 100 km to see this, only to be told they are not open every day. Told them they need to update their computer advice, and was told they are not on the computer. Apparently this site doesn't exist. Woman was rude and unhelpful.

Very welcoming friendly service,egg gallery amazing

Beautiful eggs in a beautiful, humble town. I love Beaufort and I love this gallery

a very entertaining experience, many lols had

egg craft

“Expect the unexpected “ was the wording on the menu for the tasting platter . Totally delicious . Thankyou Linda for your food passion and wine knowledge . We will return .Ally .

We had a very enjoyable tasting experience and lunch at Blue Pyrenees. We tasted all the wines available and found plenty that we liked. We particularly enjoyed the Sauvignon Blanc and the Shiraz Marsanne. The staff were all very friendly and provided excellent service, particularly the lady who guided us through the tasting and organised our platter lunch. The platter was a good size with an interesting mix of very tasty food.

Absolutely fantastic experience with beautiful wines and incredible platter, Linda was lovely to talk with and described the wines great. Will definitely be back.

My wife and I had the best time at Blue Cafe just last Monday. Without a doubt Linda makes the most flavoursome hot and cold platter we have ever eaten and — we have eaten a great many on our travels. We love the variety, texture and diverse tastes on the platter washed down with a bottle of sparkling rose — a beautiful lunch outside in the sun with our dog Maisie.In fact this is our fifth platter here and it is by far our favourite winery destination. Linda is a star who remembers us and always makes us feel very welcome Great job Blue Pyrenees Ian and Jill

We visit at least once a year for the wonderful platters and wine. They cater to all our dietaries (gluten free, pescatarian) with ease and their kids menu is small but really well done.

Amazing food. Fabulous wines. Friendly staff. Edward & Linda are friendly and fun! Don’t leave without ordering the delicious House Platter (…it gets better every time… always something different to tantalise the tastebuds!) that pairs perfectly with any of the wines available. One of the best cellar doors in the state!

Amazing experience!!! Séan met us as we strode up to the cellar door and gave us an impromptu tour of the corking process for bubbles "methode tradionelle"...... absolutely intriguing! The freezing process following time on lees, the cork size pre insertion...... to see it in action was incredible!! Then upstairs for an amazing platter & wine tasting with Linda! That platter was next level......catering for our dietary requirements and also substantial!!! Linda's wine knowledge was exceptional! We will definitely be back.....and.......Linda, we hope you celebrated your birthday in style following dry July! 🙌🥂🎉

We can only rave about our stay here and had recommended it to at least half a dozen others within days of return. Great area for bike riding across the ranges. Wake up and wind down to fantastic views. Very comfy, not fancy but exceptional value and very welcoming.

I recently had the good fortune of tasting Wimmera Hills new Sparkling Shiraz Rose. Its such an approachable, easy drinking wine with a lovely finish. It's my new go to light sparkling. Excellent work from Ben, Jane & team.

This was one of the highlights of our trip to the Pyrenees/Grampians. Jane and Ben are as welcoming as we have experienced in trips to countless wineries. The wine is amazing and the gin is every bit as good. If you are heading to this region and are in anyway interestedin Shiraz, gin, or both, I simply cannot endorse the drive out to Wimmera Hills enough. Best set aside at least an hour too, you won't want to leave!

Had a lovely day here, experiencing the peaceful countryside, the generous wine and gin tastings and a delicious lunch. Jane and Benjamin are welcome and interesting hosts who produce an incredible range of spirits and wine. Love the new Christmas Gin and the Tasmanian Pepperberry remains a favourite.

Highly recommended! This delightful cottage is for anyone looking for a "hidden treasure" getaway. The whole weekend was wonderful, from the thoughtful and environmentally friendly bathroom products, to the picturesque outlook from the balcony, and the most warm and welcoming hospitality. Thank you to the Baker's for making our anniversary weekend so amazing!

We were camping nearby at Glenpatrick with friends, went for a tasting to Wimmera Hills. Jane and Ben were very welcoming and generous in their tastings, included a free cheese and fruit platter, flat bread freshly made. Of note is the use of local produce in their offerings. Well worth a visit and I highly recommend a tasting.

My partner and I spent a restorative two nights at this lovely winery nestled in hills of the Victorian pyrenees. Jane and Ben made us feel very welcome and comfortable. The location was beautiful and well-positioned for exploring the local country. Highly recommend ! We will be back in the summer !

Wonderful dog friendly winery with an incredible menu of bespoke wine. Taste after taste, every bottle better than the last. Our hosts Annie and Lily were generous with their time, with helping us navigate the area as tourists, and fed us a delicious platter of antipasto. Top notch winery experience: we can’t wait to come back.

Such an amazing place! Annie was a great host. Very knowledgeable, accommodating and easy to deal with. An afternoon of relaxing music A must see place to visit for an afternoon of great wine & entertainment! highly recommend

We have loved Taltarni wines for many years now which we get here in WA, and were excited to be stopping in on our road trip through Victoria. It was one of the stops we had been looking forward to for a long time. The CD was absolutely amazing and all that we hoped it would be, we had very high hopes. Unfortunately Anne who looked after us left us highly disappointed, she clearly didn’t know much about the wines, we asked a few simple questions but her responses were rude, and she acted like we were interrupting her day. Having waited so long to go there, we left with only 2 bottles as we just wanted to get out of there. We still love the wines, at least they didn’t leave a bitter taste in our mouths.

Dropped in there with friends for a cheese and meat platter and wine . Was very disappointed with the lack of knowledge from the woman serving- Anne - she was outright rude and was obviously lacking in her knowledge. She spoke very rudely to another staff member who looked embarrassed. The cheese platter wasn’t as good as the one we had last year. There was an amazingly knowledgeable woman last year who was friendly and helpful. We bought a lot of wine last year . But she was gone and had been replaced by this Anne who was just plain rude and had no idea about the wine. We left unhappy. We were going to book a large group for November but have decided to go elsewhere instead.

Annie ensured we had the most amazing experience tasting the wines available at Taltarnie. She also provided platters that were a delight, patient, knowledgeable a credit to the winery.

Came in for Easter weekend. The lady behind the bar was useless. Her customer skill were clearly lacking. And it was obvious she knew nothing about the wine she was pouring. Also the coffee was undrinkable. Taltarni use to be our favourite place to visit….we won’t be back

Beautiful native setting for the tasting room. Lovely use of timber throughout. Very helpful new customer service girl, friendly but not pushy! Wide choice of wine to taste!

Wow - a totally unexpected experience. Having known the wine, now experienced the cellar door. Lisa is fabulous, took us through 9 different wines. Omg amazing wine, great chats & what a view !

Stunning looking winery with equally stunning wines. Top shelf is pricey but very special wines and are among the best I've had the pleasure to experience. Lisa at the cellar door was lovely, helpful and knowledgeable. Thank you.

We had a great timr in Dalwhinnie. The wine and cheese platter was stunning and Lisa was very welcoming and generous. We were looked after very well. The view is also stunning. It will stick in your mind forever. We would come back again.

Great winery in the hills around Avoca to spend time tasting wines and having a cheese platter

What a great place! Had a wine tasting yesterday, wine was delicious and the service even better. If you are visiting, ask for Lisa!!! She was a vibrant and lovely character that made the experience so great. We will be back 🥂😊 🪨

Perfect experience if you want to learn and test premium wines🍷, if you are in Melbourne is one MUST visit spot 1️⃣

Lisa was great value, cellar door itself is stunning. Wine speaks for itself, though it was certainly helped by the surrounds. Worth a stop!

Tour guide was great and relatable. Very knowledgeable about the history or the asylum and has been a guide for 6 years. The tour was maybe a little long- the last hour could have been compacted into being a 5 hour tour. Not particularly scary in my opinion. Many gadgets to detect paranormal activity were supplied. The tour guide made the night more enjoyable that’s for sure.

I went on the 8pm Friday night tour of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum with my sister and a friend while we were in the Grampians. This was a two hour tour, and I would say there was probably about 20 people on the tour with us, with a maximum of 30 people allowed. I have to say that I think 30 people would be too much for this tour, so I was glad that we weren’t at capacity. If this tour was kept at say 15 people, people could ask more questions and it would actually be a little bit more creepier. We knew that there could be up to 30 people so it’s not a criticism of what is advertised, just an observation. Michelle was our guide, and she was very dramatic and theatrical, and set the scene quite well. Michelle was very knowledgeable about the asylum and there was a lot of interesting information that she told us as we went through the different buildings. She’s very well prepared and extremely engaging. This is not a huge point, but given the horrible things done to some of the people in their asylum, perhaps a little bit more sensitivity around some of the stories would have been good, particularly around suicide. Michelle did acknowledge the use of language around mental illness that is not appropriate these days. However, I would have liked to have found out some more stories about some of more individual patients to give a little bit more context to some of the stories As this is pitched as a ghost tour, be prepared for some theatrics with the storytelling. I did, however, get a very eerie feeling when I walked into the asylum, this was a place with some really horrific things happened. In many ways, this is actually very sad tour when you think about the terrible things that people are capable of doing to others. Be prepared for quite a few stairs, and a small walk down a gentle hill to the morgue. The tour is often in the dark, to add to the atmosphere. Some of the people on the tool asked to carry lamps, with one lady asked to be the last person to make sure everyone stayed together. I did find myself using my camera phone in some places, especially when going down and up stairs. There are obviously sensor lights and lighting around the place as well, but it’s dimly lit to add to the atmosphere. Being very old and in disrepair, there is a strong musty smell, and I will admit that I did find many elements of the tour creepy, and did hear some noises that I think were unexplained. My sister also captured a photo that perhaps has an unexplained figure in it. I think I also took a photo with an unexplained element (window in the dance hall). There is definitely a very creepy feel to the place, and the energy does reflect the dark history of the place. If you’re going on the ghost tour, you need to park in a small car park, so I would recommend getting there a little bit more than 15 minutes earlier than recommended. I would not recommend the tour for anyone who is mobility restricted due to the stairs, and there are no chances to sit down during the tour for those people who might need this. Directions to the car park could probably be a little bit clearer on the website, and there could be better lighting in the car park as well. The asylum itself is very musty, so be prepared for that as well. I would recommend this as a fun night out, and some genuine creepiness as an added bonus. I would also really be interested in the day tour with a bit more focus on the history and to see the building from a different perspective during the day.

Aradale has been on my bucket list for many years, Saturday night I finally got to experience this. After the long trip up from SA we entered our 6 hour tour and boy it was worth it. Our tour guide Jasmine was unbelievable in so many ways, her passion, love and dedication was incredible. I learnt so much and experienced something so new. I absolutely loved every moment of our tour

Went on the weekend and did the 4 hour tour. Alice was our guide and she was amazing! Can't fault her delivery or her knowledge. She really made the tour. The tour itself was incredible, access to so many amazing parts and rooms. Highlight was being locked in the chillers in the morgue! Would definitly do the tour again and looking to do the 6 hour investigation next time! Thank you so much for an amazing night

Aradale has a long, dark history, a by product of the time it was built and how mental health was managed. The building has a heaviness and sadness about it. Tour is very informative and well organised. We are going again to book the paranormal tour. Highly recommend the experience

Our group was to large, unfortunately. The atmosphere was great overall. Personally, I'd rather come during the day to take in more of what the history has to offer and actually see the building.

I had the absolute best experience on the 6hr ghost investigation at Aradale. The setting itself is already chilling and full of atmosphere, but what made the night truly unforgettable was our incredible guide, Jasmine. Jasmine struck the perfect balance between knowledgeable historian and paranormal investigator. The investigation itself was fascinating. We had moments of genuine chills, strange unexplained activity, and plenty of chances to explore. If you’re curious about the paranormal or just want an unforgettable night out, I can’t recommend this tour enough. Aradale is already incredible, but with Jasmine leading the way, it’s truly next level.

Fascinating tour and gives a great historical context on how we used to deal with incarceration and mental health. Whilst there are some differing views on how we deal with these things now, there were clearly some people that were at different ends of the offending spectrum. Special mention to our guide Alan who was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and clearly has a passion for telling the story of this place.

Fantastic tour, our guide Rick was very knowledgeable of the history and told some great stories. Highly recommend the tour.

Great experience. Guides are very well versed in their local history and stories. Don't rush it though. You will need probably 2-3 hours to d tour to Aradale which nearby but a different location.

My sister, friend and I went on this tour while we were in the Grampians. We actually did this as a spur of the moment decision, as we were booked into a ghost tour at the Aradale asylum that night. We decided to do the J Ward tour as we saw that this tour offered a lot of things that are not offered at the asylum. Obviously, they are two completely different places, but I would really highly recommend the J Ward as a place where you get an amazing historical understanding of the treatment of people with mental illnesses up until unfortunately the 1990s. We were very lucky to have Graham as our tour guide - he was amazing! He had great stories, a brilliant understanding of the history and you can tell that he is passionate about the prison. We were lucky also to be part of a very small group, a total of seven people including us. This tour is highly recommended, completely run by volunteers but really well preserved. This place has a fascinating history, and was a really great two hours spent. You can also book time to do research if you are interested, but this is only available on certain days, however if you’re a history buff, it certainly would be a great place to find out a bit more about the dark history of this hospital.

J Ward in Ararat is a really interesting place. Yes, well recommended for a visit. Take the tour - it is definitely worth it. The outside façade and internal walls of original blue stone is stunning. The whole premises is very well restored and maintained as a historic site and museum. A lot of effort is taken to preserve the originality. We have visited before (many years back) and will add it to the list for future trips. It has a history interwoven with Aradale mental asylum, on the other side of Ararat. You could add that as a tour to your itinerary as well. The Staff are all volunteers, and were really great - Thank you. A visit is well recommended!

This ghost tour was the best!!!! We got to use paranormal equipment which was so much fun and I also captured an orb when we were in the kitchen area! The guide was also very interesting and informative, this tour is a must if you are in Ararat! 👻

We planned out trip to Ararat especially so we could do the J Ward tour - Pat was a wonderful tour guide - we really enjoyed the small group, and having the time to walk through the spaces. The tour was very informative and interesting. Well worth the visit.

We unfortunately didn’t have a lot of time to explore the museum as we got there 15 minutes before closing (and the staff were kind enough to even let us stay a bit longer!). This is a great museum which tells a very interesting story. A major plus, is that it caters for all ages. I would definitely recommend visiting.

Great little museum to learn some Chinese history Recommend time 40min-90min depends on you. Little gifts shop with very reasonable price Car park opposite the road Also can have a look at the roof design $14 for adult entry.

This is a must visit for anyone visiting Ararat or maybe just passing through between Melbourne and Adelaide. The volunteer team of born and bred Ararat white people who have gone to the trouble to research and preserve the early Chinese gold mining history is amazing. The roof of the centre is made with tiles made in China and assembled by Chinese tradesmen who came over to do it authentically. It's a must visit, huge respect to the volunteers who created and maintain this place with no government support. They self fund through tourists visits paying for entry which is well worth it. Without them, the history would be forgotten.

Gum San has some amazing history that many interested in prospecting have heard stories about 👌 But this museum has much more to offer for families & tourists looking for a different perspective of the early Victorian colonial era ! Several interactive displays & guided educational activities 👌

A fascinating insight into the history of Ararat which was effectively built on the back of Chinese gold mining. The price of admission is very cheap, and the ladies who greet you are very knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. So many historical artefacts and pictures to see and interact with. There is also a gift shop on the premises. Highly recommend.

Great little gift shop, lovely volunteers that know their stuff, you can ask them anything. Need a good couple of hours to look around the museum.

We visited here yesterday. Such a wonderful and informative place to learn about the Chinese influence during the Victorian goldrush. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. Thanks for a great experience.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Despite the name, One Tree Hill actually has plenty of trees! 🌳 The lookout gives you amazing sweeping views over the Ararat countryside — perfect for a quick stop to stretch your legs or snap a photo. Easy to get to, not time-consuming, and well worth pulling over for if you’re passing through town. A simple little gem with views that surprise you. 🌄

It’s sits high on top of the hill With all most 360 deg views of the hold area ( apart for some trees ) Platform has brass direction marked naming mountain or towns + distension

The location offers a remarkable and tranquil experience, providing an amazing view of a lush, green landscape. The environment is exceptionally peaceful.

Good area to see the view of the Grampians one way, and Ararat in another direction. There is a tower there with some seats in it. Small car park. Good drive up to the lookout to see the view.

Great view that you can drive right up to, multiple bins so don't leave your rubbish lying around like the grubs before us!

This place is well worth the little detour if you're passing through Ararat. The lookout gives a breathtaking view of the town of Ararat and The Grampians. It can get a little bit windy up the hill.

Stunning panoramic views of the town of Ararat, the surrounding Wimmera Plains, and even glimpses of the Grampians National Park in the distance. Easily accessible by car, with parking available at the summit.

Home of the Stawell Gift and the Stawell Redlegs. History abounds in Stawell and the Town oval is no exception. Well worth a visit at Easter or any winter Saturday.

Australia day celebration and citizenship ceremony. Extremely well located and organised by northern Grampians council. Well done team

A must to see if you go to Stawell. Loads of history and just a nice place to have a walk around.

Real sense of history here.

We ate lunch here, lovely clean place. Plenty of room for children to run around.

Lovely spot on a warm day. The old grandstand is a great place to stay in the shade and catch a breeze. The kids loved running the Stawell gift. The rose garden is beautifully kept.

Clean, well organised, very fond of children

We came here for lunch with another family and our two 15-month old boys, and it was such a beautiful winery! Amazing food, made with quality produce and great wine. Highly recommend!

I stayed at Pomonal Estate for three nights with my sister and a friend recently. My sister and I shared a two bedroom cabin, and my friend had his own cabin next door. I cannot recommend this place more - it is absolutely stunning What a wonderful stay! The accommodation was clean, new and very clean & tidy. My sister and I both had a king-size bed in our bedrooms, as well as an ensuite. We were greeted with a bottle of wine, fresh sourdough bread, milk, jam butter and Vegemite. There is a washer and dryer in the kitchen, as well as a stove top (gas). There is however no oven, but there is a convection microwave. The microwave itself is fairly small, but is large enough to cook a pizza. There is a lovely comfortable couch, plenty of heating and cooling as well as a huge verandah with a barbecue if you wanted to use that. This is a very well equipped comfortable place to stay My only suggestions about the accommodation are that both bedrooms should be equally equipped. So for example tissues in both ensuite, and two towels in each bedroom. The towels and tissues were left in one of the bedrooms only. As well something to put your suitcases on would be handy, as well as making sure that the manuals appliances are available. Some clearer directions regarding checkout would good. What I really loved about the estate is that it is so quiet. Halls Gap is very busy whereas this is a nice quiet place to come at night and relax. We ate a late lunch/early dinner on one of the nights we were there. The food is absolutely delicious! I cannot rave about the food enough. I only wish that perhaps the restaurant was open for breakfast, and also a later dinner because honestly you don't want to miss out on the food there! The winery itself is beautiful, and it's a huge place for eating, drinking and relaxing. I highly recommend staying here if you value a little bit of privacy and quiet. Beautiful surroundings, with kangaroos, birds and sheep and an excellent view of The mountains.

Had to cancel at late notice but Adam was more than helpful to rebook at no extra cost. Fantastic cabin with great views and facilities. The restaurant is also worth a visit for a long lunch 😋 Good location and close to all the Grampians attractions.

Unreal service, on the casual and down to earth side which is always nice to see. We got lunch, of which the flavours of the food were so complimentary and we couldn’t get enough! Also tried the small wine tasting board which was also really tasty - such a great range of locally produced wines. Loved each and every one.

Went to visit Pomonal last weekend. Always one of our favourite places to visit. Usually the lunch menu has a lot of nice share options for my husband and I. Plus I get a refill of their ginger beer. Made a booking for lunch the day before our visit and was surprised we were able to get a table as it can usually be booked out. (Was a last minute decision to go) Especially over a long weekend. Think I know why there may be less bookings. Upon arrival we were seated and there was a one page menu on the table. This is something very different to what we are used too. Nothing on the menu we could really share unless you wanted a charcuterie board. Plus neither the entrees or mains seemed that appealing. You're charging $20 plus dollars for entrees and mains between $32-$42. No doubt the food may be lovely. To expect people to pay that amount of money and for lunch no less, is a bit much. Was very disappointed as we have been going to Pomonal for years If this now your new menu. Can't say we be coming back. Shame really.

If you’re in Halls Gap, it’s worth making your way out to Pomonal Estate, Adam and Pep did everything to make our stay here enjoyable. We booked Villa 1 for our wedding accommodation, absolutely stunning! The villas are well equipped with everything we needed as well as some freebies and the views from our deck were breath taking! Definitely recommend sitting on the deck at night and just star gazing 😍 We also had lunch with our wedding party at the restaurant, everyone was so friendly and accommodating. Pep even helped us take some lovely photos on the green. Incredible hospitality and smooth check in and out. Thank you so much Adam and Pep, we will definitely be back!!! 🩷

We have stayed in the Mt. William Villa, one of six, at Pomonal Estate. Luxury comfort, very well appointed with fabulous views. The restaurant provides top quality lunches with flair and gourmet creativity at very reasonable prices. The wine and beer is also excellent. Adam and Pen are great hosts who attend to all your needs even out of normal hours. Thoroughly recommend visiting the restaurant, cellar bar or staying in one of the villas.