Just an hour northwest of Melbourne, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are the perfect nature getaway.Here you can walk through magical forests in Macedon, meander through vibrant autumn leaves in the Goldfields, all while soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of Dja Dja Wurrung and Wurundjeri Country.Read on to discover the top nature experiences near Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges.
The best time to visit Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges
No matter what time of year you choose to visit the region, you'll have the best experience mid-week or early morning (before 10 am) or later in the day (after 3 pm) on weekends by avoiding peak times.
In autumn (March – May), changing autumn colours are a real highlight in the region.
Visit in winter (June – August) to enjoy a brisk walk through damp and misty forests – remember to rug up as it gets chilly, and snow is a possibility this time of year.
Spring (September – November) brings longer days and spectacular wildflowers and scenic views from the lookouts.
In summer (December – February), the region, at an elevation of up to 615m above sea level, is a great place to escape the heat and enjoy cooler mountain air with a walk or picnic.
Vaughan Springs during autumn, Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.
Macedon Regional Park nature experiences
Macedon Regional Park is at the southern end of Victoria's Great Dividing Range and provides great outdoor opportunities including bushwalking, picnics and scenic drives. It's part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape that includes the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri Peoples.
Days Picnic Area
Make your first stop at Days Picnic Ground, one of the best picnic spots near Melbourne. Here you'll find toilets, plenty of parking and room for a family day out.
This often-misty rest stop is located along the 19km Macedon Ranges Walking Trail - for those feeling ambitious, this will take you on an all-day loop around Macedon Regional Park.
If you're after something shorter, the Sanatorium Lake Eco-Trail (below) is a great option.
Days Picnic Ground, Macedon Regional Park. Image: Visit Macedon Ranges.
Sanatorium Lake Eco-Trail
Distance: 2.5km, loop
Time: 30mins
From Days Picnic Ground, cross Lions Head Road and walk towards the picnic area to the start of the Sanatorium Lake Eco Tourism Trail. As you wander this flat, gentle trail, keep an eye out for the many kookaburras and robins that live around here.
