Castlemaine & Surrounds
Visit Castlemaine and surrounds
This was one of the most prosperous of all the goldmining regions in Victoria, and it shows. Castlemaine has a thriving artistic community, as well as an ever-expanding roster of chefs, brewers and vintners making the town their home and workplace. You can find many of them at The Mill Castlemaine, a makers’ community and vintage bazaar in an old wool mill.
Be sure to carve out some time to explore the old diggings sites, many set within serene bushland, and take some of the long, relaxing walks around the edges of the town.
Known as one of Victoria’s major sources of apples, the town of Harcourt is a short distance from Castlemaine. An annual festival celebrates the harvest, but there are also great walking trails for those eager to stretch their legs, as well as more than 30 kilometres of mountain biking tracks at La Larr Ba Gauwa Park.
Although smaller, Maldon’s streets are equally impressive. In 1965, it was the first town in Australia to be named a notable town by the National Trust. Stroll its streets to visit the shopkeepers, restaurateurs and artists who are breathing new life into the town’s historical buildings. Check your calendar too; Maldon punches well above its weight when it comes to festivals and community events.
