Victoria’s foodie destinations dominated the Best Town stakes this year, with Daylesford bumping Margaret River off the podium to take the top spot.
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, just over 100 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, Daylesford is a charming mix of cafés and farm gates, with lavender crops and boutique wineries; as well as a menu of mineral springs and local spas that earn it the title of Australia’s spa capital.
Like a European village lost in time, one reader commented “Daylesford is the perfect blend of rural and urban”.
Of course there were many mentions of the adjoining township of Hepburn Springs too, as well as the famed Lake House restaurant and hotel. But our love for Daylesford is nicely summarised by one reader who wrote, “Daylesford is gorgeous in its own rustic way – it’s perfect but not necessarily manicured”. See visitdaylesford.com.au
Finalists
In runner-up position is the Kimberley’s ever-popular Broome, which was described as “a melting pot of cultures, history and beaches”, followed by another charming township from regional Victoria, Beechworth. In fourth place was eternal favourite Margaret River, which won the title for the past two years, and newcomer Longreach, famed for its rich history, Qantas museum, and friendly outback community.
I agree with your post about the beauty of Daylesford. Daylesford lake Villas are actually located directly across the lake from the photo you are showing… we could see straight across too ! However do you know that the famous boathouse was burnt down about a year ago and is not there now?
Daylesford has fabulous views, the beautiful lake, wonderful fresh food, local markets, wineries, a cidery, amazing shops but most of all it has the most amazing mix of people visiting and living there. I am always people watching in Daylesford and it never disappoints. You may never know who you are sitting next to in a cafe, bar or coffee shop but it seems the more folk I speak to the more interesting the general population becomes. Take some time out to visit and you will see what I mean.