There’s no shortage of places to wonder at –and wander around – near Ballarat.
Grab your hiking boots or bike and explore the region’s rolling hills, forests and cycling trails; check out the excellent cellar doors of Pyrenees and Ballarat wineries, or discover good food, good wine and good times in the many charming townships scattered across the region.
Buninyong really stands out
Buninyong often flies under the radar which, given it’s home to an extinct volcano rising 745m above sea level, is quite a feat.
Hike, bike or drive to the summit of Mount Buninyong, or explore the charming, picturesque town with its gold rush-era buildings, quality eateries and shops, and seasonal markets.
Read, ride, relax in historic Hepburn
The Hepburn region is renowned for its historic townships, great hospitality and natural beauty.
Culture vultures can explore Creswick or the book-lover’s haven of Clunes.
Foodies can catch trout, hunt for truffles or discover organic wines.
Outdoorsy types can hike or bike along the region’s many tracks and trails including the newly-opened Djuwang Baring in Creswick.
Golden times in Golden Plains
More famous these days for its music festivals, Golden Plains is steeped in gold rush heritage and surrounded by open nature.
One way to enjoy both is the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail, which journeys through native grasslands and past historic sites, with the very photogenic Nimons Bridge as its standout feature.
Un-wined in the Pyrenees
Named for its resemblance to the French wine region, the Pyrenees is known for its rugged landscapes, rolling foothills and renowned wineries.
Celebrated for their award-winning wines and stunning locations, many cellar doors offer cracking views, rich reds, crisp whites, sensational sparklings and delicious, locally-grown produce.
There’s more to Moorabool
The Moorabool region offers more than most.
Pick your own local produce or get lost in a sea of sunflowers.
Embark on a medieval adventure or grab a spooky schooner.
Hike Werribee Gorge’s excellent trails or appreciate the scenic and culturally significant Lal Lal Falls.
