Discover boutique hotels in Daylesford, Australia
Galleries, boutiques and cafés line Daylesford's main street, while lakes, forests and hills beckon further afield. For a rustic retreat, it has everything the visiting city dweller deems essential. The town’s history stretches back to Victoria's gold rush, when settlers discovered something they thought more valuable than the precious metal: natural spring waters. People still come here to pamper themselves at the spas, but also to gorge on the outstanding food culture fostered by dedicated local restaurateurs and producers – the me-time, detox-retox 'double life' alluded to recently in Daylesford's TV ad campaign.
When to go
In summer January and February can be very hot in this region, and winter months June and July can be extremely cold (a boon for those who like cuddling in front of open fires). The population of the town explodes on the weekend, particularly on sublimely sunny days, when Melburnians escape the ratrace to attend the massive Daylesford Sunday Market and enjoy the country air. If you like things quieter, visit during the week (but be aware that some businesses close on Monday and Tuesday).