Daylesford is a beautiful town in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range of Victoria. It’s a popular tourist destination that’s known for its natural mineral springs. In 1852 the town was established as a gold mining town. The town was originally called Wombat, however it was renamed Daylesford.

If you’re after a cafe be prepared to be spoilt for choice, if you’re into art there are plenty of places to explore. Daylesford is also well known for its spas and calls itself the Spa Centre of Australia. It’s a great place to come and relax.



5 Things You Can Do At Daylesford
- Visit the Daylesford Sunday Market (if you’re visiting on a Sunday)
- Stroll around Lake Dayslesford
- Check out The Daylesford Spa Country Railway
- Walk along the shops
- Frequent a cafe or two
The above is just a handful of things you can do in Daylesford. A large number of tourists visit Daylesford to go to the hot baths. This was not on our to do list this trip, however it is definitely a reason for us to return to this beautiful part of Victoria. It is very easy to see why it’s such a popular spot for the tourists.
About Daylesford Sunday Market
The Daylesford Market is on every Sunday and draws crowds from near and far. You will find lots of local produce from Daylesford and surrounding areas, collectors items, arts and craft. There are also food trucks, clothes and plant stalls to name just a few of the other stalls. The market is held adjacent to the The Daylesford Spa Country Railway Station.


About The Daylesford Spa Country Railway
If you are visiting Daylesford on a Sunday you can take a heritage train ride. The journey will take you through the beautiful scenic countryside of the Central Highlands and on the return to Daylesford station you will pass towns that were established in the gold rush era, and see sites of ancient volcanos.
We opted on this occasion not to take the train ride however we did explore the 1882 Heritage listed railway station. It’s a lovely old station where you can see some of the old carriages that were once used. Again I find myself wondering what it would have been like to live in the era where this would have once been a very bustling train station





The Daylesford Spa Country Railway and The Daylesford Sunday Market Location
- 16-18 Raglan St, Daylesford, Victoria 3460
- The Daylesford Spa Country Railway is approximately 1hr 25min, 110km from the Melbourne CBD
- The Daylesford Spa Country Railway is approximately 11 min, 12 km from the Mt. Franklin Reserve
About Lake Daylesford
A visit to Daylesford wouldn’t be complete without taking a stroll around Lake Daylesford. The lake was constructed in 1929 and as you walk around the lake you will find information about the history of the area.

The lake is popular for locals and tourists, if you’re looking for a place to eat you can visit the well known Boathouse Restaurant or have a picnic at one of the many tranquil spots around the lake. Perhaps you prefer to take a dip in the lake or tour the lake by hiring a peddle boat. Maybe you prefer to stroll around the lake and taste the water from the nearby mineral pumps
Whatever option/s you choose, I am sure you will enjoy your time here.







How Long Should I Spend Here?
This is a good question. It is certainly a place you can go for a day trip or go for an escape for a minimum of 1-2 nights.
Daylesford Location
- Daylesford is approximately 13min, 13km from Mt Franklin Reserve
- Daylesford is approximately 1hr 35min, 121km from the Melbourne CBD
Feedback/Comment
Can you share any stories or experiences that you’ve encountered at Daylesford or any other destination that you suggest we should explore?
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