Goldfields

The discovery of gold in central Victoria over 150 years ago has left a rich and lasting legacy in almost every town in the Goldfields. Tour the impressive Victorian streetscapes of Bendigo and Ballarat with their grand hotels and public buildings or explore the quaint shopfronts and miners' cottages in townships such as Maldon, Castlemaine, Heathcote and Dunolly. Learn about gold rush history at the region's historic attractions. Sovereign Hill, The Eureka Centre and the Central Deborah Gold Mine offer fascinating insights into life above and below the ground during the 1850s and 1860s. Take a break from exploring the goldmines at a stylish local cafe or restaurant. Local restaurants make the most of the fine local produce of the region, and you can also sample the local wines, olives, apples and more, direct from the farm gate or cellar door. The Goldfields region is an arts and cultural haven boasting some of Australia's finest regional galleries with rich collections of local and European art. See visiting exhibitions at the Art Gallery of Ballarat and Bendigo Art Gallery and admire Edwardian and modern works at the Castlemaine Art Gallery. Take the kids to an event at the Central Goldfields Gallery, or hunt out smaller private collections and artist studios dotted all over the region. The region also offers many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Relax and unwind in one of the elegant parklands and historic botanic gardens or embark upon the 210 kilometre Goldfields Track. The Goldfields region is within easy reach of Melbourne via the Western Freeway, the Calder Highway or the Hume Freeway and the Northern Highway.