Heathcote

Heathcote is nestled in a tranquil bush setting at the foot of Victoria's McIvor and McHarg Ranges and is known far and wide for its revered shiraz, local produce and scenic beauty. Founded in the 1850s, the fine heritage streetscapes reflect Heathcote's gold rush past. These days it is the wineries and produce of the area that are the major drawcards. Heathcote wine region has a reputation for producing some of the finest shiraz in the world, along with other high quality varieties of red wine. Taste the wines and meet the winemakers at cellar doors all year round, or visit in October when the local winemakers showcase their iconic wines at the Heathcote Wine and Food Festival. The Pink Cliffs Reserve on the edge of town is a place to be for visitors keen on bushwalking and photography. A walk across this unique landscape will reveal mini gorges, wildflowers and wildlife. Local produce is grown alongside the vineyards and is best tasted close to the paddock. Drop into a providore on the main street to stock up on locally grown ingredients, or treat yourself to a long lunch among the vines at a winery. Heathcote is around and hour-and-a-half from Melbourne along the Hume Freeway.