Daylesford: Victoria’s Award-Winning Wellness Destination Continues to Charm Visitors in 2025

A Distinguished Tourism Destination

Daylesford has recently achieved a significant milestone by being named the best Small Tourism Town for 2024 in the TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town awards. This recognition follows the town being named one of the most welcoming places on the planet by Booking.com.

Location and Heritage

Located in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, approximately 114 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, Daylesford was first established in 1852 as a gold mining town and has grown to house a population of 2,781 as of the 2021 census. The area’s special healing properties were first recognized by the Dja Dja Wurrung people thousands of years ago, followed by Swiss Italian migrants during the gold rush era and Melbourne’s turn-of-the-century holidaymakers.

Natural Springs and Wellness

As one of Australia’s few spa towns, Daylesford has become a notable tourist destination, famous for its numerous spas, restaurants, and galleries. The region, including nearby Hepburn Springs, contains over 80 percent of Australia’s effervescent mineral water reserve. Visitors can enjoy rejuvenating experiences at various establishments including the Daylesford Day Spa, The Spa at Lake House, and Daylesford Healing Massage, while neighbouring Hepburn Springs offers additional relaxation options at Hepburn Bathhouse and Peppers Mineral Springs.

Tourism and Activities

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy various outdoor activities, including wildlife watching at Lake Daylesford, kayaking on Jubilee Lake, and hiking to the summit of Wombat Hill. The town is particularly vibrant during March when it hosts the Chill Out Festival, recognized as Australia’s largest country queer pride event.

Culinary Excellence

The town’s culinary scene is highlighted by renowned establishments such as the Lake House Restaurant and Sault, which offers dining amidst lavender fields. For those seeking fine pub dining, the Farmers Arms is available, while Mercato provides an elegant setting where style meets seasonal produce.

Future Development

Looking ahead, the region’s tourism authorities are focused on sustainably increasing year-round visitation through the development of new visitor experiences that capitalize on the area’s key strengths, while working to establish best practice standards for the tourism industry.