Known as a destination for healing all that ails you, Daylesford and its famous restorative waters are located within a ninety minute drive of Melbourne. The volcanic plains in this region of Australia make up the scenic environment of this picturesque town and its twin Hepburn Springs. People flock to the area to soak in the mineral springs which are found in a higher concentration here than anywhere else on the continent. The minerals leached from the rocks for millions of years are credited for the curative properties attributed to the water.
The first European to visit this part of Australia was John Hepburn who arrived on the scene in 1838. An Irish immigrant named John Egan discovered an alluvial gold mine in 1851 and that triggered the local gold rush that led to permanent settlement. Mining for quartz began during the 1860s when the gold ran out and two decades later, visitors began arriving in large numbers to indulge their senses.
Lead miners were trained at the School of Mines beginning in 1890. Today, the structure still stands and is home to the Daylesford Historical Society Museum. One of the most respected pioneer museums found in Victoria, the exhibits maintained in its halls spotlight the tradition of area gold mining a well as items significant to the saw mill and agriculture industries. Items left behind by the native Aborigines are also housed there.
Proud to be recognized as the well being capital of Australia, nearly every business in the spa town is geared toward pleasing the senses. Quaint boutique accommodations in Hepburn Springs and Daylesford boast gorgeous lake views and offer full service spa treatments designed to relax and revitalize.
The chefs serving the local restaurants combine ingredients grown and raised locally to create delectable seasonal fare that can please even the most discerning palate. Local wines and fresh produce provide the finishing touches.
Wellness centres are big business in Daylesford with spa treatments, various massage techniques and alternative therapies available almost everywhere you look. This is the place to go when life gets to be a little too stressful and it is time to escape. Qualified therapists of all kinds are standing by and ready to assist you at all times.
Lavandula Lavender Farm is located twelve minutes outside Daylesford and is a must see destination with its flowery fields of crop art. The Farm made headlines in March 2010 when 263 masseuses performed the world’s largest simultaneous massage and were collectively awarded the official world record for their efforts.
Sitting atop a nearby extinct volcano is the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens. Established in 1863, the Victorian Heritage Register formally recognized the site in 2009 for its aesthetic, scientific and historic relevance. Nestled on the grounds are shady picnic areas, various walking trails, extensive lawns and a fernery. Climb to the top of the Pioneers Lookout Tower for striking views of the city spread out below. The begonia display in the Conservatory during autumn is always a favourite with visitors.
A heritage train is operated by the Daylesford Spa Country Railway and offers scenic rides from the train station to Wombat State Forest. There is also a diesel train that runs early evening tours and includes finger foods and cocktails. The train station also hosts the weekly market each Sunday.
Daylesford is the perfect place to choose the next time you want to get away from it all. Now is the time to treat yourself to that relaxing massage or rejuvenating spa treatment that you have been longing for. Then sit back and relax in your luxury Daylesford accommodation.