From the Dja Dja Wurrung people, who first inhabited the land thousands of years ago, to the Swiss Italian migrants of the gold rush and Melbourne's turn-of-the-century holidaymakers, Daylesford has long been considered a special place of healing.

Wellness and vitality

Find balance and invigorate your body and mind in Daylesford's famous mineral waters. Enjoy the region's natural mineral springs with a rejuvenating spa experience at Daylesford Day Spa or The Spa at Lake House or book in for relaxing massages and silky, skin-renewing rituals at Daylesford Healing Massage. Neighbouring Hepburn Springs offers more opportunities for R&R at Hepburn Bathhouse and Peppers Mineral Springs.

Daylesford alfresco

Slow down, unwind and be sure to take in the natural surroundings of Victoria's spa centre. Watch native wildlife at play and fill up a bottle with the local mineral water down at Lake Daylesford, paddle around in a kayak on Jubilee Lake, or get the blood flowing with a walk to the top of Wombat Hill.

Once there, look out over the township before entering the striking Convent Gallery, housed in a historic 19th century mansion. Peruse three levels of local, national and international art, then take the time for reflection in the onsite cafe, surrounding art and sculpture park or deeper into the botanic gardens.

Browse arty collectables and homewares at boutiques, such as Bromley & Co., Arte Deco and Harry & Me, pick up statement fashion pieces at Alpaca Passion and Manteau Noir or climb aboard the Spa Country Railway for a trip with the kids to the popular Sunday Market.

Gather together

Time your visit to coincide with one of the town's many community celebrations. A regional mecca for the gay community, Daylesford comes alive each March for the annual Chill Out Festival, the largest country queer pride event in Australia.

From the fields

Save your seat at some of Victoria's best restaurants. Wine and dine at Daylesford's renowned Lake House Restaurant, winner of two hats from the Good Food Guide 2019. Try out the Argus Dining Room  or make a reservation for fine pub dining at the Farmers Arms.