Daylesford - Part 1

It's been a busy month or so, but we have managed to get to our favourite place a fair bit lately - Daylesford.

We are very lucky to have a holiday shack in Hepburn Springs, and spending more and more time in this beautiful part of the world is the aim.

So I thought I would share some of my favourite spots - both for eating and drinking and for relaxing. Because there is so much on offer, and because Hepburn is so close to my heart, there may be several instalments in this blog!

If you have never been to the Spa centre of Australia, and explored both Daylesford and the surrounding areas then you need to go.  Daylesford is about an hour and half from Melbourne and now is the perfect time to visit.  In fact, Autumn is our favourite time of year there, with the days getting a little colder and the leaves changing colours. Just remember to pack your winter woolies as it's always a few degrees colder in Daylesford.  Alternatively, the cold weather is the perfect excuse to find an open fire and open a bottle of red.

Lake Daylesford

Lake Daylesford is probably our favourite place to walk the dog or relax and have a picnic.  The lake is situated to the left of the main road just before you arrive in town and is well sign posted.  Most people head for the main car park but if you take the left turn before the sign, there is a sneaky little car park on a much quieter park of side of the lake.  From there you can walk to the Boathouse Cafe (have not eaten there so cannot comment) or visit the Bookbarn.  In fact, the Bookbarn welcomes well behaved dogs inside the shop as well as in both seating areas outside.  The coffee is good and the cakes are delicious.

There are several walking tracks around the lake and beyond and great walking information can ben found at http://www.daylesforddelights.com/walking-trails.html

Daylesford Hotel

The Daylesford pub has undergone a transformation over the past few years.  The restoration has given new life to this beautiful pub with probably the best view of Daylesford from both the balcony and the seating out front.  We never have a trip to Hepburn without a visit to the Daylesford Hotel. With dog in tow, you will find us sitting out the front, enjoying the sunset and watching the world go by.  And each and every time we visit, the food does not disappoint - I mean never.  There is a great wine list and plenty to choose from in the beer department.  Bottles of wine can be chosen from the bottle shop with corkage applied inside.  The bottle shop has one of the best regional and overseas selections in the area.

There are the usual staples on the menu, done very well, and also seasonal options, done exceptionally well.  I truly believe you cannot have a bad meal here.
Inside, there is a more formal dining area and also a more relaxed open dining area near the bar. And don't forget the al fresco dining out the front and also the beer garden at the rear.  Oh, and did I mention the balcony!
Reservations are not required but it can get pretty busy, especially on weekends.
More information can be found at www.daylesfordhotel.com.au  including info on their accommodation options.