Backpack Victoria

DAYLESFORD AND THE MACEDON RANGES

Like many regions in Victoria, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges was built on the gold rush. Nowadays, towns like Daylesford and Hepburn have made their names from the health-giving qualities of natural mineral springs. Fitness fanatics, locals or travellers with backpacks can be found drinking from over 70 springs, each with its own distinctive flavour (tip: brings some containers to bottle your own).

Regional must-dos include:

• Check out the vibrant alternative population in Daylesford, where gays and lesbians, hippies and earlier migrant communities live side-by-side
• Join the affluent types at neighbouring Hepburn Springs to take in the waters at the Hepburn Spa Resort
• Follow the walking tracks to the top of spooky Hanging Rock, featured in both book and film
• Visit the wineries and local produce stores around the base of the Rock
• Traverse kilometres of well-marked trails vectoring forests, national parks, waterfalls and mineral springs.

How to get there
By car:
Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges is easy to get to and around by road. From Melbourne, the Hume, Calder and Western highways, and the Tullamarine Freeway all lead to the region. Once there, an extensive network of peaceful back roads weaves around for a peaceful, scenic journey.

By public transport:
Several train lines service the area and local bus companies travel between the major towns and stop at all the region’s train stations. For detailed information on timetables and costs contact Metlink on 13 1638 (Australia only) or visit www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au.

On a tour:
Tours to Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges and its attractions run frequently – check out the links below or enquire at your hostel.