WHAT’S NEW: Accommodation, tours, cellar doors and more

Lavandula unveils a refreshed offering; Harcourt welcomes Victoria’s largest miniature railway; and Hepburn Springs’ historic Old Macaroni Factory opens its doors for events and stays. You can also discover new cellar doors, wine tours, and stylish accommodations like Hakka Guesthouse, Forest Edge, and Montacute Garden Pavilion.

Discover Dilworth and Allain – Studio and Cellar Door in Daylesford *NOW OPEN

Opened on September 13, this unique space blends wine and art in the heart of Daylesford. Husband-and-wife duo Chris Dilworth and Loïque Allain craft wines under their awarded Macedon Ranges label, while Loïque’s working studio transforms into a gallery and cellar door Friday to Sunday. Visitors can taste, enjoy, or take home wines featuring Loïque’s striking linocut labels, explore her large-scale artworks, and join monthly printmaking workshops.
dilworthandallain.com.au

Lavandula – an exciting new chapter *COMING SOON

Lavandula is excited to announce a new chapter this December as they unveil Tinetti’s Dairy & Wine Shoppe, celebrating local wines, spritzes, pizzas and grazing boards; The Homestead Store, a curated homewares boutique; The Post Office Deli & Larder, offering takeaway bites, sweet treats and our beloved lavender scones; and expanded wellness and beauty collections within The Farm Shop. Picnics will also be available for purchase, which can be enjoyed in the surrounding gardens. Guests will enjoy a refreshed and elevated Lavandula experience that remains rooted in its history and legacy. The refreshed Lavandula offering will open to guests from Friday 26 December.
lavandula.com.au

Old Macaroni Factory *NOW OPEN

Located in Hepburn Springs, this heritage listed 1859 Palladian style factory, built by Italian refugees, Pietro & Giacamo Lucini, is steeped in history. Lovingly restored, it is filled with modern amenities providing an ideal venue for events or overnight stays. Gather your friends and celebrate under Australia’s largest and most intact domestic, secular murals in Lucini’s Lounge and dine in the H.D.C. Long Room or Macaroni Room (with space for up to 30 guests). Or choose to stay in Pietro’s Residence, a one-bedroom residence where you sleep under the political and poetic wall and ceiling murals, depicting symbolisms of the risorgimento. You can also marvel at the living room vignettes of the brother’s home at Lake Maggiore, Italy.
oldmacaronifactory.com.au

All Aboard Victoria’s Largest Miniature Railway *OPENING IN DECEMBER

Opening this December in Harcourt, the Victorian Miniature Railway is the biggest 7¼” gauge railway in the state. Set on 65 picturesque acres with views of Mount Alexander and creek frontage, this unique attraction features 2.7km of track carrying steam and diesel locomotives. Run by passionate volunteers, VMR offers a relaxing ride through scenic landscapes while watching real Melbourne–Bendigo trains pass by. Perfect for families and train enthusiasts alike, it’s a charming new addition to Harcourt. VMR is open every Sunday from 11am to 5pm. Train rides cost $5 Per Person. Children under 2 and companion card holders ride for free.

Grand Opening Weekend: VMR will celebrate their Grand Opening over the weekend 6-7 December, with live entertainment along with food and drinks and plenty to keep the little ones engaged. Members of the public are invited to join the celebration.
vmr.com.au

Macedon Ranges Wine Tour *NEW TOUR from Daylesford Wine Tours

Daylesford Wine Tours have added a Macedon Ranges Wine Tour to their list of wine tour offerings. Let one of their experienced team guide you through the Macedon Ranges’ rolling landscapes and pristine cool-climate terroir, visiting four wineries along the way. Pop into wineries such as Mount Monument, Mount Macedon Winery, Mount Towrong Vineyard and Hanging Rock Winery. With easy pick-ups from Melbourne CBD, Gisborne, or Woodend, this bespoke journey includes a gourmet lunch at a stunning cellar door.
daylesfordwinetours.com/wine-tours/macedon-ranges-day-tour

Hakka Guesthouse, Daylesford *NEW ACCOMMODATION

Just a short drive from central Daylesford, Hakka Guesthouse is a calm, design-led sanctuary where mid-century icons, Japanese craft and modern Australian pieces create a home that’s equal parts gallery and cocoon. Outside, an acre of designer gardens that drift into the Cornish Hill reserve; inside, two fireplaces, a loft library and deep soaking tubs invite unapologetically slow living.
discoverdaylesford.com/hakka-guesthouse-daylesford

Montacute Garden Pavilion, Daylesford *NEW ACCOMMODATION

Inspired by classic English country houses, the two-bedroom Montacute Garden Pavilion rises majestically among ancient chestnut trees in Daylesford’s most magical garden. From the light-filled and spacious king bedroom upstairs, windows on three sides showcase views of the garden below. It also features a dramatic black-and-gold bathroom, complete with a luxurious bath for two – making it the ideal retreat for wedding nights, romantic proposals, or indulgent weekends away.
daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/listings/montacute-garden-pavilion

Sunday Breakfast at Hotel Trentham *AVAILABLE FROM DECEMBER

Beginning on the first Sunday in December, Hotel Trentham is adding a Sunday Breakfast to its tasty food offering. Enjoy a delicious selection of freshly prepared breakfast favourites made with local ingredients – think Tylden Organic Free Range Eggs paired with Red Beard Organic Sourdough. Available every Sunday from 7 December to 25 January, from 8:30am to 11:30am.
hoteltrentham.com.au

Forest Edge Daylesford *NEW ACCOMMODATION

Tucked on the edge of the forest and just a short 5 minute drive from Daylesford’s heart, Forest Edge Daylesford is a stunning country-style retreat that blends rustic charm with modern comfort. This near-new home (under five years old) offers a warm, welcoming escape with 3.5 beautifully appointed bedrooms, two elegant bathrooms, and a wraparound veranda that frames breathtaking forest views.
daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au/listings/forest-edge-daylesford/