5 Things to Do on A Daylesford Road Trip
The World Loves Melbourne loves a road trip! This time we headed for super popular Daylesford in regional Victoria on a long weekend. Only one and half hours from Melbourne, Daylesford gets about a million day trip visitors a year. The region is full of attractions and experiences. We set out to find the best with some of our team. One of the best things to do in Melbourne is to go on a road trip to a stunning region not far from the city; and Daylesford is the perfect destination.
Victoria boasts the world's most liveable city but also boasts amazing getaway destinations for road trips! For us it was a day of fun and imbibing the delights of regional Victoria.
Dine at Wombat Hill House and Stroll Around Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
Our first stop was Wombat Hill House; an iconic foodie haven in Daylesford located in the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. The café, store and kitchen garden is the masterstroke of famous food identity, Alla Wolf-Tasker, (Executive Chef and co-owner of the Lake House), her artist husband Allan (check out the murals and winged wombat) and daughter Larissa. The 1940s caretaker’s cottage has been restored to its charm and brings a touch of nostalgia - making it the perfect place to catch up with friends and enjoy smart modern food featuring local produce.
Delicious smoothies and Allpress coffee are the perfect starter with our delicious meal enjoyed outside in the atrium precinct, with the gardens surrounding.
A blackboard detailed the daily specials - the dishes on offer are compelling. We began with Potato rosti, caramelised leeks and smoked ocean trout, topped with a perfectly poached egg and zest of fresh, minted peas.
Several of us opted for the pizzas, which are always a popular choice. Chorizo is great in any dish!
We were also in black rice heaven, with Wombat Hill House featuring fresh produce from their garden. Instagram that!
The Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens is an enchanting place to visit any time of the year. The gardens are built on top of an extinct volcano known as Wombat Hill, which can be seen from most locations in Daylesford.
Walk off brunch by climbing the Pioneers Lookout Tower!
This place wass seriously fun. You can also bring your own picnic (or get your hamper here) and make use of the fabulous facilities in the gardens. Sensational!
Visit World Famous Bromley & Co. Gallery
Next destination was Vincent Street, the main street of Daylesford, to check out the world famous and exciting Bromley & Co. Gallery. David Bromley is an international artist and the gallery is an amazing collection of all kinds of art; from painting to sculptures.
Amazing sculptures are created in both bronze and resin. There is so much to check out at this gallery with a treasure-trove of world class pieces that you can also purchase.
Upstairs is a cosy lounge area with more stunning pieces; we enjoyed the fireplace and leather couches.
Vibrant paintings and chic clothing are also available in the gallery.
A visit to Daylesford is not complete without visiting the many art galleries; with Bromley & Co. the pick of the galleries.
Visit Larder Cafe
Larder is a foodie haven in the main street of Daylesford; where we indulged in a fabulous meal in a cafe-meets-art-gallery.
An all day breakfast menu greets the diner, including the famous Larder big breakfast. We ordered several cakes and treats as well as the Soup of the Day (asparagus with poached eggs).
Come to me freshly baked cookie!
The vibe is "artsy" and full of character; we sat at the large communal table at the back...
Before you leave, why not grab treats from the display cabinet, or select some gourmet produce for your picnic hamper.
Stroll along eclectic Vincent Street Daylesford
What an enchanting town Daylesford is, full of stately iconic buildings, boutique shops and vibrant cafes, restaurants and galleries...
Check out the galleries such as Bromley & Co. (see above segment), Bokeh, Red Pepper Gallery and Clayfire Gallery (all on Vincent Street).
Other recommended cafes on Vincent Street include Food Gallery and Bocconcini (European style).
Built in 1882 the Town Hall is an iconic building.
A stroll down Vincent Street, the main street of Daylesford, is so rewarding!
Walk Around Lake Daylesford
Get your exercise on! A visit to Daylesford is incomplete without a walk around Lake Daylesford! One of the best places to start your stroll around the lake is at The Boathouse.
Strolling around the lake is relaxing and spectacular; with amazing views the whole way around the lake. Open to the public since 1930, Lake Daylesford has become a main attraction for visitors and popular with locals. It's hard to imagine a visit to Daylesford without visiting Lake Daylesford! Check out the abundant wildlife and the opportunity to enjoy a picnic in selective spots on this scenic walk.
Daylesford is a superb destination with awesome experiences and adventures awaiting! A visit to Daylesford is perfect for a road trip into regional Victoria. Get on it!