Maldon

Maldon is a quaint goldmining town that appears to have been plucked directly from the nineteenth century and placed down in Victoria's Goldfields region.. The National Trust declared Maldon Australia's first 'notable town' in 1966 due to its well-preserved nineteenth century buildings. Visitors are enchanted by broad footpaths shaded by corrugated iron verandahs, buildings and cottages made from local stone, old-fashioned shop fronts and deep stone gutters. High Street is cool and verdant in summer with its swathe of deciduous European trees that strike brilliant colours in autumn. Pick up a brochure from the visitor information centre to guide you around the town's historic streetscape. See the Post Office, Penny School, Battery, churches (Welsh, Anglican and Uniting) and the Court House. High Street forks into two main streets, both of which are perfect for browsing antique and collectibles shops and galleries. Discover homewares, books, chocolates, herbal remedies and beautiful imported lace. For a taste of Victoria's gold history visit the recreated 1850s goldmining town at Porcupine Township, wander around the North British Mine, visit the Beehive Mine Chimney and tour Carman's Tunnel. Take a drive up Mount Tarrangower and get a 360-degree view of Maldon and the surrounding countryside from the lookout tower. Climb aboard a steam-era train from Maldon to Muckleford and back with the Victorian Goldfields Railway. To get a taste of the area, follow the Maldon Taste of Gold food and wine trail. Sample local wines and produce from farmgates and cellar doors along the way. There are many regional events that showcase the area's gourmet strengths, so be sure to plan ahead. Maldon is 137 kilometres north-west of Melbourne or about 90 minutes by car via the Calder and Pyrenees highways.