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Are you looking for things to do in Hepburn Springs? Well, you’re in the right place!
Whether you’re in the early stages of planning your trip, already in Hepburn Springs, or just visiting for the day, this article covers all the Hepburn Springs attractions that you can visit.
With its rich Swiss Italian heritage and the Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve (containing Australia’s largest concentration of mineral springs), there’s no shortage of attractions when looking for places of interest in Hepburn Springs.
Below you’ll find our guide with everything you need to know about what to do in Hepburn Springs, as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday!
At the end of this article, you’ll also find a handy map of the best places to visit in Hepburn Springs.
Ready to discover the best things to do in Hepburn Springs? Let’s get to it!
21 Best Things To Do In Hepburn Springs
At just over an hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne, Hepburn Springs Victoria is the quieter, lesser-known neighbour to the famous spa town of Daylesford.
But, as you’re about to find out Hepburn Springs is worth visiting too!
1) Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa
The first stop on any trip here has to be the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. It was first built in the 1800s during the early gold rush days of the town and has been popular for its healing mineral-rich waters ever since.
You can still visit the historic part of the bathhouse, but for the ultimate Hepburn Springs day spa experience visit the ‘Sanctuary’. Where you can find a range of treatments and take part in ancient spa bathing traditions.
At the Hepburn Springs Bathhouse, you will find a steam room, a Hammam, and an outdoor bathing area. The Hepburn Bathhouse is conveniently located close to the famous Hepburn Hot Springs.
Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Where: Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Daylesford 3460
When: Sun – Thu: 9.00 a.m – 7.00 p.m, Fri – Sat: 9.00 a.m – 9.00 p.m
Cost: Various packages
Phone: (03) 8727 8901
2) Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve
Best known for being Australia’s first mineral reserve, this leafy area is a great place to take a stroll and have a picnic with your own supply of fresh mineral waters from the spring.
You can try several different mineral formulations from the old-fashioned pumps and pipes, just bring your own bottle.
Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve is a great place to hang out and get to know the locals. There’s also a barbecue area, kids’ playground, and the Pavilion Cafe.
Relax here after a trip to the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, or tire the kids out on the graded walking trails – it’s a great place for families too.
3) Daylesford Wine Tour
Take a Daylesford Wine Tour while you’re in the area to find some of the best boutique cellar doors in the region. Sip on locally made wines, craft ciders, and gin.
You will get to visit Passing Clouds Winery, Red Hare Winery, and Wombat Forest Vineyard on the Daylesford Winery Tour. No need to worry about driving, it’s all done for you so you can fully enjoy the wine tastings.
Tours can last from anywhere between 2 to 6 hours depending on your itinerary, with prices starting from $335.00 per person.
Book the Daylesford winery tour here in advance to avoid missing out.
You will also get lunch as well as dinner and stops at Jubilee Lake, the Chocolate Mill, the Daylesford Spa Country Railway, and the Mineral Springs.
👉 Check Rates and Availability Here!
4) Hepburn Regional Park
A visit to Hepburn Regional Park reveals stunning waterfalls, sensational views, and some fantastic walking opportunities.
Head out on the Mineral Springs Loop Walk, a 1.5 km circuit of the park that will take around 45 minutes to complete.
Other walks include the 2.2 km Breakneck Falls to Golden Springs trail and the Blowhole to Breakneck Gorge walk (3.1 km).
For keen adventurers, the 210-kilometre Goldfields Track is the ultimate hike in Hepburn Regional Park.
It links Ballarat and Bendigo so there’s plenty of amazing scenery to be found. Walk it, bike it, or split it up into smaller sections.
Hepburn Regional Park
Where: Ballan – Daylesford Road, Daylesford 3460
When: Always open
Entry: Free
5) Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
The Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm is one of the best things to do in Hepburn, Victoria. Its grand European-styled grounds are a wonderful place to take a stroll around in the summer months.
Lavandula Farm is a great place to bring the family for a picnic too, with over one hundred acres of fields to choose from.
Alongside the lavender, you can also find chestnut and olive groves, as well as more formal gardens that look like they’ve been plucked straight out of Switzerland.
Grab a drink at the La Trattoria Eatery & Bar, and find unique souvenirs like fragrant lavender oils made on-site.
Lavendula Swiss Italian Farm
Where: 350 Hepburn – Newstead Road, Shepherds Flat 3461
When: Fri – Tues: 10.30 – 5.00 p.m, Closed Wednesday & Thursday
Entry: Adults: $5.00, Children (school age): $1.00
Phone: (03) 5476 4393
6) The Maze House
For a fun family day in Hepburn Springs, visit the Maze House just off the Midland Highway.
Along with the traditional hedge maze, there are also scavenger hunts and old-time carnival games for the children.
Don’t miss the vast country gardens to explore, complete with a vegetable and flower patch, orchards, and plenty of shady exotic trees – although picnicking isn’t permitted.
Tickets for adults are $14, children and concessions cost $12, and children under 4 years are free.
The maze isn’t wheelchair or pram friendly, unfortunately, but the gardens are in dry weather.
The Maze House
Where: 3155 Midland Hwy, Newlyn North 3364
When: Weekends and school holidays 10.00 a.m – 4.30 p.m
Entry: Adults: $14.00, Child: $12.00 (3 and under free), Concession: $12.00
Phone: 0437 842 018
7) Overwrought Garden Art Gallery
Located just outside town, Overwrought Garden Art displays and sells Australian handmade metal artwork that’s not only beautiful, but useful as well.
Designed by artist David Dawson each item is created using a combination of traditional blacksmithing techniques and contemporary metalworking.
Here you’ll find wall art, garden art, sculptures, signs, furniture, outdoor settings, fire pits, bird baths, and privacy screens.
Works by other local artists, artisans, and makers are also on display. This range includes paintings, ceramics, jewellery, woodwork, handbags and wallets, as well as soaps, potpourri, and bath salts.
Outside there’s a huge sculpture garden with a billabong and fish pond where you can enjoy a coffee and sweet treat from the onsite cafe.
Overwrought Garden Art Gallery
Where: 3409 Midland Highway, Blampied 3364
When: 7 Days: 10.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry: Free
Phone: 04036 75170
8) Hepburn General Store
While a general store may not sound like one of the most interesting options when looking for what to do at Hepburn Springs, you should definitely add this one to your list.
The old-fashioned Hepburn Springs General Store doesn’t just have homewares, fashion, and gifts on offer, there’s also a delicious takeaway menu full of fresh, seasonal, and local produce.
Get piping hot donuts made daily in-house, signature pies, and made-to-order cheese and charcuterie boxes and hampers, and wash it all down with one of the region’s finest reds from the bottle shop.
Hepburn General Store
Where: 102 Main Road, Hepburn Springs 3461
When: Mon – Thu: 7.30 a.m – 4.00 p.m, Fri – Sat: 7.30 a.m – 5.00 p.m, Sun: 7.30 a.m – 3.00 p.m
Phone: (03) 5348 1274
9) The Mineral Spa
For a more intimate experience visit the Mineral Spa. It’s easy to miss as it’s located at the back of the Peppers Mineral Springs Hotel, but this adults-only day spa is a haven of peace and tranquillity.
One hour or 90-minute sessions include the use of two 38° hot pools and one cool plunge pool, a basalt stone sauna, an infrared detox box, and a wet steam room.
Night sessions are also available on a Friday or Saturday evening, with a romantic fireplace and candlelit bathing.
Sessions start at $65 for 60 minutes between Tuesday to Thursday, or $70 on weekends and public holidays.
The Mineral Spa
Where: 124 Main Road, Hepburn Springs 3461
When: Mon – Thu: 10.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m, Fri: 10.00 a.m – 7.00 p.m, Sat: 10.00 a.m – 8.00 p.m, Sun: 9.00 a.m – 7.00 p.m
Cost: Various packages
Phone: (03) 5348 2100
10) The Chocolate Mill
Who can resist a visit to the Chocolate Mill! One of the most appetising things to do in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs.
Taste Fairtrade chocolate that’s been handmade right here, fresh every day. This high-quality chocolate is made from only the best ingredients and is free from artificial colours and preservatives.
If the chocolate bars aren’t quite enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, you can also have a hot chocolate at the onsite Cafe.
The Chocolate Mill
Where: 5451 Midland Hwy, Mount Franklin 3461
When: Thu – Tues: 10.00 a.m – 4.45 p.m, Closed Wednesdays
Entry: Free
Phone: (03) 5476 4208
11) Daylesford Farmers Market
You can’t talk about things to do in Hepburn Springs and Daylesford without mentioning a market.
One of the most popular, the Daylesford Farmers Market, takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month.
It’s a fantastic place to watch the community come together and buy fresh fruit and vegetables from local farms.
Spend the day sampling the finest local produce and sipping on award-winning wines from the best cellar doors in the region.
Don’t worry if you can’t make this one though, Daylesford is famous for its markets. There are plenty of others including the Daylesford Sunday Market that’s on every weekend throughout the year.
Daylesford Farmers Market
Where: Daylesford Primary School, 102 Vincent Street, Daylesford 3461
When: Fourth Saturday of the month 9.00 a.m – 1.00 p.m
Entry: Free
12) Radius Art Gallery
Radius is a truly local gallery, showcasing the works of creatives located within a 50-kilometre radius of Hepburn.
Within this region there is a diverse group of artists including painters, sculptors, designers, printmakers, photographers, and ceramists.
The gallery has an ongoing program of exhibitions, events, and workshops that are carefully curated by a committee of professional creatives.
There’s also a makers store where you can purchase uniquely designed jewellery, cards, homewares, clothing, and books – an ideal gift or memento of your trip.
Radius Art Space
Where: 76 Main Road, Hepburn Springs 3461
When: Thu – Sat: 10.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m
Phone: (03) 5348 1199
13) Sailors Falls
Like some of the Great Ocean Road waterfalls, Sailors Falls is easily accessible for just about everyone.
You can visit from the road (the top lookout is both wheelchair and pram friendly), or take a 1.4 km walk to get up close to the waterfall and the mineral springs.
Take a stroll through the shaded fern-lined gully and explore the many rock pools nearby.
There are undercover picnic tables and facilities too, so it’s a good spot to take a break and have a bite to eat.
Sailors Falls is just a 10-minute drive from Hepburn Springs.
Sailors Falls
Where: Ballan – Daylesford Road, Daylesford, 3460
When: Always open
Entry: Free
14) The Blowhole
The Blowhole was created by 19th century miners, the diversion tunnel was built to divert water from a section of Sailors Creek.
This created a dry creek bed that was ripe for gold prospecting. In fact you can still pan for gold in the river today.
Follow the fenced walking track down from the gravel parking area to the gorge, there are some steep stairs down to a small lookout that then continue to the Blowhole at the bottom.
From here you can also take the short 700-metre Spur Loop Walk or the longer 2.4 km Diggings Loop Walk – this slightly more challenging circuit takes around 40 minutes to complete.
The Blowhole Gold Diversion Tunnel
Where: Blowhole Road, Hepburn 3461
When: Always open
Entry: Free
15) Breakneck Gorge
Another option is to hike from the Blowhole to (the frighteningly named!) Breakneck Gorge. This 3.1 km route will take around 1 hour following the Dry Diggings Track and the riverbed.
Follow the yellow signposts, negotiating hills and rocky spots, spotting lizards and swamp wallabies along the way.
You will be rewarded with a deep, tree-filled gorge that’s great for birdwatching. Return along the same path or for a longer taste of the bush stay at Breakneck Gorge overnight.
16) Mount Franklin
Have you ever climbed a volcano? At the Mount Franklin Reserve, you can go right around the rim of the now extinct Mt Franklin volcano.
Strap on your hiking boots and take the 45-minute (1.7km) walking track to the top. Once you reach the fire lookout at the top of Mount Franklin you are rewarded with spectacular views of the area.
You can’t miss Mount Franklin, Victoria, as it’s just a 10-minute drive north of Hepburn Springs. You can even stay overnight at the nearby campground.
Mount Franklin Reserve
Where: 4 Powells Lane, Mount Franklin 3461
When: Always open
Entry: Free
17) Trentham Falls
The impressive Trentham Falls is best known for being the highest single-drop waterfall in Central Victoria.
To get to the falls take a 20-minute drive southeast of Hepburn to the small town of Trentham.
The raging Coliban River meets large orange and red basalt columns, resulting in a huge 32-metre-high cascade.
Visit the viewing area that overlooks the waterfall and gorge. You can even spot a cave that’s formed beneath the waterfall due to the slow erosion of the rock beneath.
The lookout is accessed by a short walk from the car park via stairs or a steep, gravel ramp – it’s not recommended for prams or wheelchairs.
Unfortunately, the track to the base of the falls is closed due to degradation and cracks forming in the rocks.
Trentham Falls
Where: Trentham Falls Scenic Park, Trentham Falls Road, Trentham 3458
When: Always open
Entry: Free
18) Hepburn Golf Club
If you are looking to improve your game, play a round or two at Hepburn Springs Golf Club.
This friendly and inclusive club has been around since 1926 and is thought to be one of the oldest in Victoria.
The courses aren’t long, but the undulated fairways will have you carefully considering your choice of club. There are 18 holes to aim for and golf buggies are available.
One of the best things about this course is the surrounding native bushland. Expect to share the Santa Ana Couch fairways with kangaroos and other wildlife.
Hepburn Springs Golf Club
Where: 36 Golf Links Road, Hepburn 3461
When: Monday – Sunday all day
Green Fees: 18 Holes: $45.00, 9 Holes: $35, Junior: $ 19
Phone: (03) 5348 2185
19) Castlemaine Day Trip
Another fun way to spend the day is to take a day trip to visit Castlemaine, one of Victoria’s hidden gems.
At around a 30-minute drive north of Hepburn, it’s an easy road trip that could also be fit into an afternoon.
Although it’s not big, there are plenty of things to do in Castlemaine. Some of the top attractions are the Victorian Goldfields Railway and the sprawling Castlemaine Botanical Gardens – one of Victoria’s earliest botanical gardens.
Explore the cafes, boutiques, and the Castlemaine Artists Market to uncover the cultural scene or head to the respected art museum.
If you’re here at the right time you might even catch the biennial Castlemaine State Festival.
20) Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides
If you’re looking for an adventure-filled day in Hepburn Springs, why not go horse riding in the bush? You don’t need to be experienced as different horses can be selected for each level of rider.
The family owned Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides run tours from their farm (Quirindi Stables) just a 17-minute drive from Hepburn.
Become fully immersed in the Victorian countryside on a two-hour horse ride, before grabbing a pizza back at the farm and relaxing by the fire.
Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides
Where: 60 Telegraph Road, Newlyn North 3364
Cost: Rides start at $150.00 pp for 2 hours
Phone: 0408 059 125
21) Jacksons Lookout
For outstanding views over the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve head to Jacksons Lookout. It’s also a great place to start hikes like the Hepburn Mineral Springs Walk and provides access to parts of the Goldfields Track.
The lookout itself is a tall metal platform accessed by stairs, offering views over Hepburn Regional Park. There is a rough unsealed track to the parking area off Back Hepburn Road.
If you’re visiting just for the lookout, it’s best to check with the most up-to-date reviews – there have been reports of large trees blocking the views recently.
Where To Stay In Hepburn Springs
Hepburn At Hepburn: Luxury
If you’re looking for a luxurious or romantic getaway Hepburn At Hepburn ticks all the boxes.
These stunning one-bedroom villas have the feel of a luxe hotel room and the convenience of a self-contained holiday apartment.
Enjoy a soak in the huge spa bath while watching a movie in surround sound. Or relax with a glass of wine on your private deck while watching the kangaroos visit.
Other amenities include a kitchenette, a super comfy king-size bed, free Wi-Fi, Netflix, and a cosy gas log fireplace.
Conveniently located, Hepburn at Hepburn is just a 5-minute walk from the local pub and the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa.
👉 Check Rates and Availability Here!
Hotel Bellinzona: Mid-Range
Hotel Bellinzona is a beautiful heritage hotel that offers a blend of old-world elegance and contemporary comfort.
Known forits refined ambiance and top-notch service, the hotel is a tranquil escape with its manicured gardens and scenic views.
The spacious rooms are elegantly styled and have all the conveniences you need for a comfortable stay, including king beds and walk-in showers.
Guests can take advantage of the indoor heated swimming pool, spa, and sauna, free Wi-Fi, and secure parking.
The onsite restaurant The Virgin Kitchen has a delicious contemporary menu, while The Lobby Bar is perfect for a cocktail (or two!).
👉 Check Rates and Availability Here!
Hepburn Springs Motor Inn: Budget
The Hepburn Springs Motor Inn offers value-for-money accommodation at a reasonable price.
The good-sized rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay including great showers, cosy beds, free Wi-Fi, a fridge, and an outdoor setting.
There’s also a lovely garden with big gum trees, a barbecue area, and a gazebo for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
The motel is well located within walking distance of eateries and all the Hepburn Springs attractions. Daylesford is just a short drive away.
For those travelling on a budget, Hepburn Springs Motor Inn is a great option.
👉 Check Rates and Availability Here!
Hepburn Springs Things To Do Map
Final Thoughts
As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Hepburn Springs – hopefully, you’ve found lots of ideas and inspiration in this post!
From soaking in the therapeutic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa to walking trails in the Hepburn Regional Park, waterfalls, galleries, and a lavender farm, there’s no shortage of fun and interesting ways to spend your time here.
Read all our Victoria Guides here.
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By Audrey Chalmers
Audrey grew up in Victoria and travelled the world but she always called Victoria home. She loves nothing more than exploring her home state and sharing it here.
