A region full of riches – that sums up the Goldfields.
Built on the wealth of the 1850s and 1860s gold rushes – hence its name – this famous patch oozes history, opulence, and excitement.
Whether you’re after a memorable family holiday or a cosy romantic escape, this handy cheat sheet will easily acquaint you with a prized pocket of turf.
Take a scenic stroll in these locations, some of which double as excellent picnic spots:
Retrace a fascinating past at the following:
Sovereign Hill, Ballarat: One of Victoria’s most popular experiences. This open-air museum features a recreated gold-rush village and underground mine. Pan for gold and be enthralled by its magnificent sound and light show.
Golden Dragon Museum, Bendigo: Traces the history of Chinese culture within Bendigo and its surrounds through a series of absorbing indoor and outdoor attractions. Includes seriously ancient relics.
Central Deborah Gold Mine, Bendigo: Home of Australia’s deepest underground mine tour. Explore a once-bustling gold mine situated 61m below the surface.
Vintage Talking Tram, Bendigo: A novel history lesson. These iconic trams reveal Bendigo’s past while visitors take in the city’s sights.
Buda Historic Home & Garden, Castlemaine: A well-preserved home and garden from the gold-rush days. Boasts an enviable collection of furniture, art, and other period items.
We’ve already mentioned some above but there's more family fun to be had at the following:
For a fun outing, hop on board the Victorian Goldfields Railway steam train as it chugs between Castlemaine and Maldon. The service operates most weekends and Wednesdays and gifts gorgeous views.
Hands down, the best way to embrace Goldfields culture is to spend time within the confines of a top-class art gallery. This trio ranks among the best in regional Australia:
Here are a handful of recommendations among a feast of photogenic sites, including aforementioned botanic gardens:
The gorgeous town of Maldon is gifted with the 'most intact heritage streetscape', according to the National Trust, and is ripe for pretty pics.
Cellar doors abound in the Goldfields region with four wine areas to choose from. Options are:
These venues are just some of many regional gems for top-notch tucker and refreshments:
These establishments are also worth entering for a quiet drink or two:
We have parks aplenty planted in the Goldfields’ major locations. Find something to suit today.
BIG4 parks in the Goldfields region are here or click or tap below.