A tiny treasure

Recognised as Victoria’s Top Tiny Tourism Town at the 2025 Top Tourism Town Awards, Trentham is a happening hamlet. Set on the edge of the Wombat State Forest, this charming town with its goldrush-era streetscape is home to boutique stores, country pubs, art galleries and top-notch food and wine experiences. Located on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, it’s a destination of seasonal change. There are leaves of red and gold in autumn, spectacular rhododendrons blooming in spring and early summer, and perhaps even some snow in winter.

Relax for a day or two at one of the impressive B&Bs. For a luxurious wellness stay, you can’t go past Acre of Roses, located within a micro-flower farm. Other top picks include the luxuriously renovated Cosmopolitan Cottage, the centrally located Nancy’s of Trentham, or the strikingly elegant The French House.

Whether you’re wandering its charming streets or savouring local flavours, you’ll feel right at home. And the best bit? Almost all Trentham’s attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

Things to do in Trentham

Trentham’s two main streets, High Street and Market Street, feature an enticing collection of boutique shops. Drop into Frankie & Mae where the focus is on slow fashion and natural fibres, discover a wonderful collection of designer wares at The House of Marcelle & Mr John, or pick up household goods from the sustainably focused The Green Store.

For art, head to Little Gallery, run by a collection of local artists. Chat to them, before finding your own Trentham artwork to take home with you.

You don’t have to venture far to enjoy the best of the natural world. Less than five minutes’ drive from town is Trentham Falls, one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in Victoria. Take in the spectacle from one of the viewing platforms. Back in town, explore lush Wombat State Forest by following the Domino Rail Trail. Starting at the heritage-listed Trentham Railway Station, it runs for six kilometres to Lyonville. Popular for those who like to swing is Trentham Golf Club, with 18 pretty holes that are also popular with local wildlife.

Eat and drink

Trentham is full of flavour and fresh produce. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into Annie Smithers’ own home as you feast on her French farmhouse-style cooking at hatted du Fermier. Annie crafts a seasonal menu each week using locally sourced produce, including from her own farm, Babbington Park, in nearby Lyonville.

When it comes to quality pub fare, there are three excellent options. The Cosmopolitan Hotel is famous for its seasonal dishes, wood-fired pizza and beautiful garden, which is surrounded by century-old elms. Hotel Trentham serves up pub classics with a modern twist.

A short drive out of town, the Pig & Whistle Hotel is a classic, ivy-wrapped country pub surrounded by paddocks. Expect friendly service and delicious food, from traditional pub favourites to creative vegetarian options.

Back in town, Trentham General is the go-to spot for breakfast. For authentic sourdough or a sweet treat, pop into RedBeard Bakery, or pick up a meticulously crafted creation from Sisko Chocolate. For cocktails or wine, stop by cosy wine bar Mr Peacock.

The best Trentham events

Trentham’s rich produce is celebrated each year at the Great Trentham Spudfest, held on the first weekend in May. This wonderful community event celebrates the area’s potato heritage, with fresh produce, market stalls, live music and more. On the third Saturday of each month, pick up the best local produce from the Trentham Farmers’ Market in the town square.

How to get to Trentham

This pretty town is an hour and 15 minutes’ drive from Melbourne and just 20 minutes from Daylesford. You can travel by V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Woodend, where there’s a connecting coach service to Trentham about four times a day.