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The best wineries to visit in Daylesford and beyond

Credit: Visit Victoria

Uncover Daylesford’s winery gems, offering handcrafted wines, delicious platters, and scenic views.

Why dream of Tuscany or Bordeaux when Australia’s Daylesford region offers a collection of world-class wineries? With options ranging from long lunches overlooking picturesque vineyards to tastings and gourmet platters at cosy cellar doors, you’re spoiled for choice.

Use our guide to plan your ultimate wine-tasting adventure through the top wineries in Daylesford and its surrounding regions.

In Short

While the Macedon Ranges wine region is the most widely known, this part of Central Victoria also hides a rich mix of boutique wineries around Daylesford and Kyneton. From cellar doors made for lingering to vineyard lunches worth planning a weekend around, these pockets of the region reward slow, curious exploration.

Daylesford wineries

Beyond the village charm, boutique shopping, and indulgent day spas, the Daylesford region holds another gem – its world-class wineries. With lush landscapes fostering some of the finest vineyards, we’ve gathered our favourite spots to sip and savour wines that are as rich in character as the town itself.

1. Passing Clouds

the vineyard at Passing Clouds
Passing Clouds has been in the premium grape-growing business since 1974. (Credit: Nikole Ramsay)

The closest cellar door to Daylesford, Passing Clouds is a family-run vineyard crafting exceptional wines since 1974. Open daily, the cellar door offers personalised tastings overlooking the vines, and on select Sundays, visitors can arrive via a heritage train ride with the Daylesford Spa Country Railway – a wonderfully nostalgic way to start a wine-country afternoon.

For lunch, the estate’s restaurant serves a seasonal, locally inspired menu best enjoyed with tranquil vineyard views across Musk. In warmer months, the Caravino – a gleaming silver caravan servery set outdoors – pours wines by the glass alongside picnic-style offerings, creating a relaxed, walk-in option for lingering over a sunny afternoon.

Address: 30 Roddas Lane, Musk

2. Captains Creek Organic Wines

rose and tasting plate at Captains Creek Organic Wines
A delicate rosé paired with a tasting plate at Captains Creek Organic Wines. (Credit: Chris Turner)

Home to some of Daylesford’s best organic wines, Captains Creek Organic Wines provides a relaxed yet refined experience for the discerning wine lover. From sparkling whites to bold chardonnays, their cellar door showcases the essence of sustainable winemaking. Weekend tastings provide the opportunity to discover their range in a tranquil setting.

Alongside the wines, delicious shared tasting plates and cheese boards showcase fresh organic produce from Captains Creek and surrounding farms. Be sure to try the crowd-favourite Hepburn Sparkling – an ideal aperitif or celebratory pour, and a reminder that some bottles are made for everyday moments as much as special occasions.

Address: 120 Kangaroo Hills Road, Blampied

3. Attwoods Wines

outdoor dining at Attwoods Wines
Enjoy lunch on the al fresco deck. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Set against a backdrop of vines and leafy green spaces, Attwoods Wines is where cool-climate pinot noir and chardonnay thrive. Just ten minutes from Daylesford, this Glenlyon winery is run by passionate grape growers crafting wines that reflect both vintage and terroir, with tastings hosted at their award-winning cellar door.

For a lingering visit, settle in with a glass on the deck or book a table at Le Bouchon, the on-site dining room known for its French-leaning, seasonally driven menus. Offerings shift throughout the year, from comforting Sunday roasts in the cooler months to lighter summer combinations – such as seafood-forward plates paired with crisp, French-style rosé.

Address: 260 Green Gully Road, Glenlyon

4. Wombat Forest Winery

wine tasting at Wombat Forest Winery
Enjoy a tasting paired with a smooth pinot noir. (Credit: Wombat Forest Winery)

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Wombat State Forest, Wombat Forest Winery offers a serene escape just 15 minutes from Daylesford. Specialising in premium handcrafted wines, their small-batch approach delivers cool-climate reds with refined flavours, aged to perfection in French oak barrels.

Settle in for a tasting at the cellar door or savour a glass on the deck with sweeping forest views. The atmosphere is intentionally relaxed, with live music and seasonal celebrations often adding to the experience, while cooler months invite lingering by the wood fire with a seasonal platter close at hand.

Address: 189 Springhill Road, Denver

Kyneton Wineries

Known for its historic charm and country-style allure, Kyneton is a go-to destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. Its wineries and top-notch eateries, however, are the hidden gems that truly set it apart. Let us introduce you to some of their finest.

5. Kyneton Ridge Estate

an outdoor wine tasting at Kyneton Ridge Estate
Sample outstanding wines in the picturesque setting. (Credit: Kyneton Ridge Estate)

Perched among the rolling hills of the Macedon Ranges, Kyneton Ridge Estate invites visitors to experience its blend of small-batch winemaking, art and local flavours. A seated wine tasting offers a glimpse into the estate’s unique approach, with flights featuring carefully crafted wines that reflect the season and sustainability practices.

After your tasting, stay for a meal at The Ridge Cafe, where owner Angela Wood serves modern Australian dishes with Mediterranean flair. Be sure to explore the Kyneton Ridge Artspace, which showcases rotating exhibitions from emerging and established artists.

Address: 517 Blackhill Road, Kyneton

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6. Cleveland Estate

wine tasting at Cleveland Estate
Enjoy estate-grown wines while overlooking the picturesque vineyard. (Credit: Cleveland Estate)

Within the illustrious Lancemore Estate, Cleveland Estate boasts the region’s only underground cellar door, providing a truly distinctive wine-tasting experience. Surrounded by the luxury accommodations and expansive beauty of the estate, visitors can enjoy an impressive selection of local wines, including their very own vintages.

Once you’ve discovered the underground treasures, savour wood-fired pizzas or a gourmet meal at the onsite restaurant, Carriage House Restaurant, set against the backdrop of the estate’s tranquil vineyards.

Address: 55 Shannons Road, Lancefield

7. Curly Flat Vineyard

grapevines at Curly Flat Vineyard
The privately owned Curly Flat Vineyard is set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Macedon Ranges.

Amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Macedon Ranges, Curly Flat Vineyard has been producing top-tier wines since 1989. Under Jenifer Kolkka’s leadership, the estate is celebrated for its refined pinot noir and chardonnay, wines that consistently impress with their complexity and balance.

Visitors are welcomed with a complimentary tasting of the latest releases, often accompanied by stories from the vineyard’s history. There’s no food or coffee on offer here – the focus is firmly on the wine – making it a good cellar door to visit with intention, especially for those keen to immerse themselves in the craft.

Address: 263 Collivers Road, Lancefield

8. Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard

a bottle of shiraz at Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard
Sip on delicious shiraz. (Credit: Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard)

At Hunter-Gatherer Vineyard, the focus is on letting the land speak through each bottle. The laid-back cellar door offers a warm and inviting setting for visitors to taste superb wines, accompanied by a bit of friendly banter.

Alongside the wines, visitors can settle in with a wood-fired pizza, and on the right day even find a table tennis table set up beneath the marquee – an easygoing way to pass an afternoon. The team are also generous with local knowledge, happily pointing visitors towards neighbouring wineries to help shape a relaxed Macedon Ranges tasting itinerary.

Address: 362 Pipers Creek-Pastoria Road, Pipers Creek

Macedon Wineries

Venturing a little further afield, the Macedon Ranges region is home to some of Victoria’s most notable wineries. Whether you opt for a wine tour or enlist a designated driver, get ready to indulge in the exquisite flavours of this celebrated wine region.

9. Lyons Will Estate

the entrance of Lyons Will Estate
Step into Lyons Will Estate for a sit-down wine tasting.

Driven by a love for the land, Lyons Will Estate offers a boutique wine experience in the heart of the Macedon Ranges. Every bottle reflects the vineyard’s commitment to sustainability, with winemakers Ollie Rapson and Renata Morello following a hands-off approach that lets the grapes’ natural qualities take centre stage.

Open every weekend, Friday through Sunday, the stylish cellar door offers seated tastings where visitors can sample estate-grown wines and enjoy local produce platters. Keep an eye out for their pop-up events throughout the year like feasting barbeque lunches and summer spritzes.

Address: 60 Whalans Track, Lancefield

10.  Hanging Rock Winery

the scenic grounds of Hanging Rock Winery
Come for the wine and stay for the lush views. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Hanging Rock Winery, nestled in the Macedon Ranges, combines award-winning wines with incredible natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings of their signature wines, including the Macedon NV Brut Cuvee and Heathcote Shiraz, guided by passionate staff who bring the wine’s story to life.

Beyond the cellar door, the estate has become a recognised home for large-scale outdoor sculpture through its Art in the Vines exhibition, now an annual highlight showcasing works by leading local and national artists across the vineyard. Wander the sculpture trail before settling in with a local produce platter featuring cheeses and estate-grown beef, all enjoyed against sweeping views of the Macedon Ranges.

Address: 88 Jim Road, Newham

11.  Mount Macedon Winery

Mount Macedon Winery exterior view
The mountainside winery and retreat boasts sweeping views across the Macedon Ranges. (Credit: Alex Colcheedas)

Set off on the forest trail to discover Mount Macedon Winery, a mountainside retreat that artfully combines the moody charm of the Australian bushland with sleek, contemporary design. Tastings at The Wine Den, the winery’s architecturally designed cellar door, sit alongside multiple dining options, from UUMM Restaurant – where woodfired pizzas and seasonal, share-style plates celebrate local produce – to the refined Cellar Door Restaurant, all framed by sweeping views across the Macedon Ranges.

Designed for unhurried visits, the cellar door experience can be enjoyed before or after a meal, making it easy to shape a day around lunch, dinner or a leisurely afternoon in the hills.

Address: 433 Bawden Road, Woodend

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12.  Mount Towrong Vineyard

wine tastng at Mount Towrong Vineyard
Italian heritage meets sustainable winemaking at Mount Towrong Vineyard. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Mount Towrong Vineyard, set between the hills of Mount Macedon and Mount Towrong, offers a charming combination of rustic Italian food and handcrafted wines. Family-owned since 1996, the vineyard produces low-intervention, vegan-friendly wines that perfectly complement their homestyle dishes.

The two-storey cellar door provides a welcoming space for tastings, with stunning views of the vineyard. Whether you’re dining upstairs with sweeping vistas or downstairs by the wood fire, the relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make this venue a must-visit.

Address: 4 Taylors Road, Mount Macedon

13.  Granite Hills Wines

Granite Hills Wines from above
Granite Hills Wines sits on the north peaks of the Great Dividing Range.

Renowned for its long-standing excellence, Granite Hills Wines has spent over five decades mastering cool-climate winemaking. With a rich history and countless awards, each estate-grown bottle captures the spirit of the Macedon Ranges and the dedication of two generations of winemakers.

The inviting cellar door, open daily, is ideal for sampling their celebrated wines while enjoying the idyllic surroundings. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic, unwind with a glass of their favourite wine, and embrace a lazy afternoon by the vineyard.

Address: 1481 Burke and Wills Track, Baynton

Distilleries in Daylesford

Daylesford isn’t just for wine lovers – it’s also home to incredible distilleries offering handcrafted spirits, craft beers, and refreshing ciders. Perfect for expanding your liquor-loving palate, here’s a guide to the finest in the area.

14.  Terra Australis Distillery & Herbal Lore Liqueurs

Located in the historic Old Butter Factory on the edge of Daylesford, Terra Australis Distillery & Herbal Lore Liqueurs offers a relaxed setting to explore handcrafted spirits and herb-driven liqueurs under one roof. The tasting room’s easygoing atmosphere invites visitors to sample botanical gins, smooth vodkas and aromatic liqueurs, all shaped by a deep respect for ingredients, flavour and process.

Surrounded by gardens and with ample on-site parking, it’s an unhurried stop well suited to a leisurely afternoon, whether dropping in out of curiosity or settling in to explore the full breadth of the range.

Address: Lot 2 Railway Crescent, Daylesford

15.  Daylesford Cider

the apple orchard at Daylesford Cider
The award-winning ciders are crafted from organic heritage apples grown on the farm. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

At Daylesford Cider, heritage apples and artisanal craftsmanship come together to create some of the region’s finest ciders. Open daily, this English-style tavern offers tastings of their award-winning ciders, ranging from robust to refreshingly light.

Enjoy a cider tasting paddle in the scenic courtyard or retreat indoors by the fire to keep cosy during winter. With a menu featuring cheese boards, charcuterie, and weekend wood-fired pizzas, it offers an all-around delicious day out.

Address: 155 Dairy Flat Road, Musk

16.  Hepburn Distillery

a premium gin at Hepburn Distillery
Sample botanical gins at Hepburn Distillery.

Hepburn Distillery is all about crafting high-quality, locally inspired spirits from the ground up. Using organic ingredients and sustainable practices, this family-run distillery handcrafts premium gins, vodkas, and whiskeys with a deep connection to the land. Each spirit is lovingly fermented, distilled, and triple-filtered on-site to ensure top-quality flavours.

Tucked just behind Daylesford’s main street at 1 Gin Lane – a very apt address – the cellar door offers tastings of award-winning spirits in a cosy, inviting setting. For a more immersive experience, try the whisky-making workshop, where participants can create their own spirit and explore the full distilling process.

Address: 1 Gin Lane, Daylesford

17.  Daylesford Brewing Co

the bar at Daylesford Brewing Co
Daylesford Brewing Co is much loved for its small-batch craft beers.

Established in 2015, Daylesford Brewing Co has long been a local favourite for small-batch craft beer, brewed on site and poured fresh from the taps. While beer remains the heart of the operation, the taproom has evolved into a broader hospitality destination, pairing its brews with a confident, all-day dining offering.

Dining is now led through Grain, the taproom’s kitchen, serving everything from quality coffee and breakfast through to burgers, gourmet sandwiches and heartier evening plates. Whether stopping in for a morning caffeine fix, a casual lunch or an afternoon beer with friends, it’s a relaxed, community-minded space that reflects the easygoing spirit of Daylesford.

Address: 97 Vincent Street, Daylesford

Pauline Morrissey

Pauline Morrissey

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8 incredible hikes just outside of Melbourne

Just over an hour from Melbourne, spectacular walking and hiking trails encompass ancient landscapes, forested ridgelines and volcanic peaks.

Just a short drive from the city, the urban sprawl gives way to rolling hills, mineral springs, and lush forests that will have you feeling like you’re in the bucolic countryside of France. Encompassing Daylesford, the Macedon Ranges, Castlemaine and the Central Goldfields, this pocket of Victoria is a region where nature, art, and wellness intertwine. Heritage towns hum with creativity, good food and wine, and welcoming locals. While Daylesford hikes, and those nearby, offer the chance to take a pause and reconnect with nature.

1. Hanging Rock Summit Walk

Hanging Rock Summit Walk
Take in views across the Macedon Ranges.

Etched into folklore, few places in Australia carry as much mystique as Hanging Rock. Rising dramatically from the plains near Woodend, this volcanic mamelon offers a beautiful nature walk. The walk begins at a gentle pace, weaving through shaded woodland before it gets a little steeper as the path starts to climb and twist to the summit. From here, you’ll have views that stretch across the Macedon Ranges. The walk is roughly 1.8 kilometres return, but the real reward lies in standing among the weathered boulders, feeling the age and energy of the earth beneath your feet.

2. Macedon Ranges Walking Trail

Macedon Ranges Walking Trail camel's hump lookout
Walk to Camel’s Hump. (Image: Clair Derwort)

The Macedon Ranges Walking Trail traverses around 19 kilometres of forest and mountain landscapes. The full trail is a six-hour circuit, with most of the walk being a grade three; however, you don’t have to tackle it all at once. There are shorter walks that will take you through the tall mountain ash forests, to tranquil picnic areas, and sweeping views from Camels Hump and the Memorial Cross. The best times of year to head out are autumn, when the mountain turns into a tapestry of crimson and gold, and spring, when wildflowers brighten the trail.

3. Mount Alexander Traverse

Mount Alexander Traverse
Take in the serenity.

Towering above the goldfields near Castlemaine, Mount Alexander is a granite giant that offers some great bushwalking trails. The Mount Alexander Traverse winds along the mountain’s rocky spine through dry eucalypt forest that opens up in sections to reveal beautiful panoramas across Loddon Valley and all the way to the distant Grampians. Once a site of ancient volcanic activity (and later a gathering place for the Dja Dja Wurrung people), the mountain’s granite tors are now quiet and create a beautiful, serene atmosphere for a moment of reflection while walking.

4. Murmuring Walk

Murmuring Walk daylesford hikes
Circle the picturesque Sanatorium Lake.

Located an easy drive from Daylesford, Murmuring Walk offers something a little different. Circling Sanatorium Lake, this free audio-guided walk aims to immerse you in the rhythms of Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country by blending the sounds of nature with a multi-layered soundtrack. There are two routes to explore while you listen: a shorter loop around the lake itself and a longer circuit that extends deeper into the woodland.

5. La Gerche Forest Walk

La Gerche Forest Walk
Walk into history on the La Gerche Forest trail.

Located in Creswick, the La Gerche Forest Walk honours the legacy of John La Gerche, a 19th-century forester who championed the regeneration of the then gold-rush-ravaged land. Today, over 100 years later, his replanting efforts have grown into a living cathedral of towering pines, oaks, and native gums. As you meander along the 2.2-kilometre circuit, you’ll find interpretive panels along the way that help tell the story of La Gerche’s vision, so you can learn as you wander.

6. Sailors Falls Loop

Sailors Falls Loop
See these spectacular falls. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Daylesford, Sailors Falls tumbles through a fern-lined gorge, fed by mineral springs. Thought to be named after the sailors who jumped ship to seek gold in the area during the 1850s gold rush, the loop walk begins at the car park and descends through a cool, shaded gully to the base of the falls. From here, you’ll make the climb back via the mineral springs. It’s a short but enchanting walk – about 1.5 kilometres in total, so make a day of it by packing a picnic to sit by the springs; you’ll feel worlds away from the city.

7. Paddys Ranges Loop Walk

Further north, the Paddys Ranges State Park loop reveals a different side of Victoria’s Heartland – dry forest, golden light and hints of a gold-rush past. This protected reserve is a stronghold of box-ironbark woodland, providing vital refuge for endangered species. In spring, the forest floor is awash with the colour of over 230 species of wildflowers, so a springtime walk is a must-do. As you walk the 4.5-kilometre loop trail, keep an eye out for remnants of old mine shafts and rusted relics from the prospectors who once sought their fortunes here.

8. Mount Franklin Summit Walk

Mount Franklin Summit Walk
Take in forests and waterfalls along the way to the top of Mount Franklin.

An extinct volcano turned picnic ground, Mount Franklin (known as Lalgambook to the Dja Dja Wurrung people) is one of the region’s quiet marvels. The summit walk follows a narrow, winding path through native forest to the crater’s rim, where you’ll get glimpses of farmland and forest below. It’s a moderate climb – just over an hour return, so it can easily be done if you’re camping in the surrounding reserve for a weekend nature retreat.

The trails of Victoria’s Heartland offer a chance to reconnect with the landscape, local history and yourself. Start planning your next adventure at daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au.