Victoria Goldfields
The fascinating Goldfields region in Central Victoria is the epitome of the state's classical past and
rich heritage. The historical region consists of a rich blend of charming townships, grand provincial centres and picturesque countryside. While most of the gold has long since been retrieved, there are still a few precious nuggets waiting to be discovered and you can buy or hire metal detectors and prospecting equipment from many of the towns to try your luck as the diggers did in years gone past. Ballarat and Bendigo make up the two major provincial cities where most tourists head to. The legacy of their opulent past remains today in city streets lined with fine Victorian-architecture heritage buildings that were funded by the fortunes discovered by miners of the mid-19th century. More examples of such extravagant buildings can also be found in the neighbouring, though quieter, towns of Maryborough and Castlemaine who were once themselves prosperous gold havens. Also in Central Victoria is Victoria's popular Spa Country which encompasses Daylesford and Hepburn Springs as well as the areas surrounding them. Idyllic and peaceful towns despite the developments and being a tourist hotspot, the area boasts possibly the largest selection of spas, treatments, therapies and massages in Australia, perfect for that indulgent weekend away. Goldfields Tourist Route While V/Line trains and buses provide convenient and regular transport to Central Victoria and the Goldfields, the best way to explore the region is via your own transport. The Goldfields Tourist Route is a popular tourist route that spans a distance of over 500km and generally takes about 4 days to complete. The trail covers trips from Melbourne to Ballarat, Daylesford, Bendigo and Stawell with stops at the many smaller centres in between. Along the way, you'll get to visit the various wineries, spas, art galleries, vineyards, heritage sites and attractions that the region is renowned for. Navigation on the route is made easy through the use the distinctive circled golden 'G' signs as well as signs pointing to helpful visitor information centres and the shorter drives in between the major cities and towns. See our detailed Victoria Goldfields map.
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