Beaufort

Bump into Beaufort as you make your way west of Ballarat and pull-up for fine country fare, wines from the Pyrenees, and invigorating forest walks.

Walking 'round Beaufort
Meander down the main street and admire the whimsical building styles, dating back to Beaufort's days as a gold rush town with gold discoveries at Fiery Creek in the 1850s.

Increase your energy levels and get stuck into Mount Buangor State Park and Mount Cole State Forest. Admire the native orchids and other wildflowers during spring. Tackle the Beeripmo walking track, with its 360-degree views of the surrounding hills. Choose a stage or two of the walk, or set off on the complete two-day effort, sheltering in huts and pitching a tent in some remote spots.

Food and wine
Replenish body and soul with the regional produce and cool-climate Pyrenees wines. Get a guaranteed good feed at any of the cafés lining Beaufort's main street, with excellent French cheeses a highlight.

Visit the wineries of the Pyrenees wine region. The wineries like any opportunity to pull out all stops, offering occasional entertainment and menus designed by top chefs to complement specially selected wines from the region.

Summer grooves
Grab the glowsticks and join the throngs flocking to Beaufort for a summer weekend of music, art, performance, spiritual education, relaxation and healing at the Rainbow Serpent Festival.