The Perfect 3-Day Kyneton Itinerary for a Cosy Escape

Kyneton tops the list of underrated regional Victorian destinations; follow our three-day itinerary to unearth her hidden gems for yourself.

Tucked away in a historic area known for its former gold rush glory days, Kyneton is a tiny town that is big on architecture, outdoor pursuits, cosy accommodation, natural attractions, retro pubs, and delicious eateries. Here’s a three-day itinerary for the small but mighty town.

Day one in Kyneton: a cafe, winery stop and retro motel

Whether you arrive in the morning or at lunch, a meal at Little Swallow Cafe is a must. Country cafes don’t come any cuter than this! Located on heritage-listed Piper Street, it features an innovative menu based around the region’s seasonal produce. With blooming floral arrangements adorning the sidewalk tables, kitsch knitted blanket throws on rustic wooden chairs and a lovely courtyard setting, dining here is an all-around pleasurable affair.

Three glasses of red wine — Make sure a wine tasting at Kyneton Ridge Estate is at the top of your itinerary.

Leave room for a wine tasting; no trip to Kyneton is complete without a stop at the beautiful Kyneton Ridge Estate. Settle in to sample the array of outstanding wines, admire emerging artists exhibiting in the dedicated art space and unwind in the sunshine to the sweet sounds of native birdsong.

the property exterior of Kyneton Springs Motel — Check into the old-fashioned but chic Kyneton Springs Motel.

In true Australian road trip fashion, spend the night at a retro motel. The cosy rooms at Kyneton Springs Motel are designed to embody the charms of yesteryear blended seamlessly with the modern comforts we’ve come to expect. Bonus points for the great food on-site at Cathie’s Kiosk.

Inside the Kyneton Springs Hotel — The vibrant rooms at Kyneton Springs Hotel are lush and welcoming.

Day two in Kyneton: Trentham Falls and a multi-award-winning guesthouse

Awake refreshed and either order a deluxe breakfast tray direct to your door at the Kyneton Springs Motel or pick up some takeaway treats from any of the fab cafes along Piper Street. Now you’re ready to explore the natural beauty of nearby Trentham Falls. It’s only a 20-minute drive from downtown Kyneton and it is one of Victoria’s longest single-drop waterfalls! Towering 32 metres high, the water heaves over impressive basalt rock structures.

Trentham Falls flowing over a cliff — Trentham Falls is Victoria’s highest single-drop waterfall.

Upon arrival (it’s just a short, easy walk from the car park to the viewing platform) you can straight-up expect a breathtaking experience. Watching the rapid force of natural hydropower in action is phenomenal. It is one of many waterfalls around Daylesford that are worth a visit.

If you’re feeling tired from your outdoor adventure, slow it down and check into Isabella at Kyneton , a multi-award-winning guesthouse with stacks of positive guest reviews – all attesting to how much they loved their stay.

Isabella at Kyneton,bedroom — Stay at the multi-award-winning guesthouse Isabella at Kyneton for a charming retreat.

Built in the gold rush era, this popular 1860s home has effectively retained its original charm while embracing all the comforts of modern living. The three-bedroom property sleeps up to six guests, the nightly tariff includes a deluxe breakfast, and if you book direct, you’ll receive a complimentary bottle of wine and a gourmet platter on arrival. It’s also within easy walking distance to all of Kyneton’s best restaurants and cafes.

Isabella at Kyneton room decor — You’ll find the charm of this quaint escape is in the details.

Day three in Kyneton: markets, golf and a historic Aussie pub

Greet the day with a strong cup of coffee and a nourishing breakfast at one of the quaint cafes on Piper Street. Tip: Duck Duck Goose and Larder are popular with locals and visitors alike. Or, depending on what days you are here, a morning trip to the Kyneton Farmers Market should be on your to-do list. Stock up on local produce before heading home. The same goes for hunting antique treasures down the main street, where you’re bound to find a special Kyneton keepsake to pop on your mantlepiece.

the bustling Kyneton Farmers Market during the day — Spend your mornings browsing through the stalls at Kyneton Farmers Market.

After fuelling up why not hit the local greens? Golf is a great game, no matter your age or whether you’re an expert or a beginner and here at Kyneton, all abilities are welcome to play. Fact: this 18-hole regional golf course was designed by renowned course architect Vern Morcom.

Do not leave town without swinging by the historic Kyneton Hotel for an excellent pub lunch feed and/or a cold beer in the front bar setting. This quintessential Aussie pub has a strong sense of community without pretence – much like the whole town really.

The facade of Kyneton Hotel Victoria — Head to Kyneton Hotel for the quintessential Aussie pub experience.

If you want to stay longer in Kyneton and have a group of friends or family who adore staying in grand buildings, look no further than the Kyneton Old Rectory. This is by far one of the best luxury accommodation options in Kyneton within walking distance of everything. The Old Rectory building with its mix of late Georgian and Victorian colonial architectural features is listed by the National Trust of Victoria and its beautifully manicured gardens are an attraction unto themself. Guests must book the whole place and it sleeps a maximum of six adult guests in three bedrooms.

Explore more of Daylesford and Macedon Ranges in our travel guide.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

A 3-day itinerary for a cosy escape in Kyneton