48 hours in Maryborough & Surrounds

DAY ONE

MORNING

Start by exploring the historic township of Carisbrook. Visit the Carisbrook Log Jail, believed to be Victoria’s oldest surviving log jail, then explore the town’s rich heritage, including the grand Junction Lodge Homestead and impressive bluestone buildings.

LUNCH

Make your way to Maryborough and enjoy lunch at The Station Café & Bar, located within the former First-Class dining room of the magnificent Maryborough Railway Station (pictured) – widely recognised as the largest and most elaborate country railway station in Victoria. Watch the immersive display at the adjoining Visitor Information Centre, before joining a guided tour to discover its fascinating history

AFTERNOON

After lunch, check out an art exhibition at the Central Goldfields Art Gallery. Housed in a beautifully restored former fire station, and home to the thoughtfully designed First Nations garden, garingilang gatjin wii. Afterwards, admire the grand 19th-century Italianate and Renaissance Revival buildings found within the nearby McLandress Square.

EVENING

Head to Maryborough’s iconic Bull and Mouth Hotel for a pre-dinner drink in the wine and cocktail bar before settling in for a hearty meal in the bistro. Dating back to 1855 and rebuilt in 1904, this heritage-listed landmark is renowned for its striking Edwardian Baroque architecture, complete with a distinctive domed corner turret.

DAY TWO

MORNING

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, head to the renowned Talbot Farmers’ Market, where local producers showcase fresh produce, artisan goods and gourmet treats. Otherwise, simply spend some time exploring Talbot’s beautifully preserved streets, browsing antique stores, galleries and specialty shops housed within historic buildings.

LUNCH

Settle in for lunch at Fossickers Fine Food & Eatery, a café, wine bar and providore championing local producers through seasonal dishes and carefully curated regional fare.

AFTERNOON

Take a moment to explore Paddys Ranges State Park, where peaceful walking tracks wind through box-ironbark forests. Keep an eye out for native birdlife and colourful seasonal wildflowers as you explore. Head north to Dunolly, where Broadway’s wide streets are lined with heritage buildings. Visit the Dunolly Museum, where relics, photographs and gold rush artefacts tell the story of life on the Victorian goldfields.

Nearby in Moliagul, visit the discovery site of the Welcome Stranger, the world’s largest alluvial gold nugget. You can even try your hand at gold detecting in the surrounding goldfields.

EVENING

Enjoy dinner at Dunolly’s Railway Hotel, a historic country pub where hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect end to your exploration of the Central Goldfields.

WHERE TO STAY:

There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in Maryborough, whether you’re after a stylish weekend escape, a heritage experience or a family-friendly base. Settle into the beautifully appointed Gilbert or Ruby properties from Whiskey June, soak up the history of the Bull & Mouth Hotel, or enjoy the relaxed comforts of the Bristol Hill Motor Inn or the Golden Country Motel and Caravan Park.