12 of the best Bendigo accommodation picks

Chloe CannBy Chloe Cann
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Strike gold with a stay at one of the most exceptional Bendigo accommodation picks.

Historical Bendigo, Victoria’s small-yet-mighty country town, boasting less than 125,000 people, flows with a surprisingly extensive range of overnight stays. Plotting a break in Goldfields region? Whether you’re keen to treat yourself to a boutique hotel in the city’s centre, on the hunt for a romantic winery, or just plain desperate for a family-friendly change of scenery, our guide to the best Bendigo accommodation presents a smorgasbord of possibilities.

Hotels

Bendigo’s hotel game thoroughly excels. Just add character-filled touches of true Australiana for some of the most memorable Bendigo accommodation you’ll ever come across.

1. Bendigo Ernest Hotel

a woman relaxing in her suite at Bendigo Ernest Hotel
Each bespoke suite at Bendigo Ernest Hotel is a design lover’s dream. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Legacies of Bendigo’s gold rush past linger at the Bendigo Ernest Hotel . Though it only opened its doors as what we see now in early 2022, the 1864 building has lived several lives including one as the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney. See the history for yourself by idling in the hotel lounge, housed within the old bank vault, and you might even spot a bullet hole, believed to have originated from a gold-rush era heist. Each of this Bendigo accommodation’s individually designed rooms feature Australian artwork and natural, earthy colour palettes, while fur parents will be utterly charmed to learn that there’s a pet-friendly suite that welcomes your house-trained bestie.

2. Bendigo Lodges

the dining area inside Bendigo Lodges
The lodges feature nature-inspired architecture. (Image: Dylan James)

A boutique Bendigo stay unlike any other, Bendigo Lodges is architecturally staggering and environmentally friendly. While one is larger than the other (60-sqm vs. 36-sqm), the two self-contained builds are equally breathtaking, inspired by the region’s natural bush surroundings and magazine-styled to perfection. There’s not even a check-in counter—the entire system works remotely—and you can expect a delicious blend of polished concrete, high vaulted ceilings and warm timbers to help fill your dream home mood board. Rain showers, private courtyards, Sonos entertainment systems and electric vehicle charging stations ensure five-star joy no matter where you’re sprawled.

3. Hotel Shamrock

the exterior of Hotel Shamrock in Bendigo
The architecturally designed hotel mirrors the city’s glorious past. (Image: Hotel Shamrock)

Step into a bygone era dressed in ornate architecture, red carpets and chandeliers at Hotel Shamrock , a total time warp in the middle of Bendigo. While it’s renowned locally as one of the best pubs around, this Bendigo hot spot is also home to 37 overnight suites with ensuite bathrooms, TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Clean, crisp bed sheets and spacious floor plans equal comfortable and convenient lodgings, with two dining areas and that-all-important-bar dialling up the party right downstairs.

4. Mercure Bendigo Schaller

a bedroom with balcony and scenic views at Mercure Bendigo Schaller
Each suite opens up to scenic views. (Image: Mercure Bendigo Schaller)

On the hunt for something contemporary and funky? Mercure Bendigo Schaller is the place for you. An art-filled Bendigo accommodation pick located slap-bang between Lake Weeroona and the CBD, the hotel offers two categories of rooms: standard or superior, with the latter promising almost double the space, and both offering balconies. This wheelchair-accessible hotel also has a cafe and bar onsite.

5. Quality Hotel Lakeside

Quality Hotel Lakeside ’s outdoor pool might well be a deal clincher for some. For others, it might be the property’s location just opposite Lake Weeroona, and only a short stroll from Bendigo’s CBD. Moreover, this Bendigo accommodation’s spacious rooms ooze contemporary chic thanks to a simple neutral colour scheme, while some stays feature balconies and pool or lake views. There’s also the relaxed Lakeside Restaurant on site, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner inspired by international cuisines.

Caravan parks and camping

Glamp, camp and RV your way around the city at these Bendigo holiday parks and wineries, which range from peri-urban settings to bushland.

6. Balgownie Bendigo

a safari tent at Balgownie Bendigo
The luxe glamping tent is fitted out with a private ensuite and a deck with vineyard views. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Balgownie Bendigo is a scenic spot to sample a few local drops, devour a three-course lunch and retire to your choice of indulgence—a decked-out glamping tent or a plush room. If you’re opting for the former, don’t be deceived by that blank canvas. Inside you’ll find almost every mod con, from an in-tent split system to a mini bar, fluffy robes and slippers. Choose from the slightly more compact bell tent or go for a safari tent that can sleep up to four guests. Both varieties feature private decks with bushland or vineyard views. Meanwhile, Homestead Deluxe and Queen rooms are beautifully styled and ultra-comfortable, and an additional one-bedroom suite looks out over the vines and sleeps up to three.

7. BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo

tents at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo
Bask in the outback for an elevated camping experience. (Image: BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks)

There are multiple BIG4 holiday parks to choose from in the Bendigo region — but BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo is arguably the cream of the crop. Not only is this Bendigo accommodation the closest to central Bendigo, but it also offers a plethora of different accommodation options and a litany of facilities: think a solar-heated outdoor swimming pool, barbecue areas, mini-golf, an outdoor fire pit area, a pump track, a half-size basketball court, arcade games, a giant chess board, a giant jumping pillow, go karts, a pool table, table tennis and more.

As for your unique digs, dial up the luxe in a glamping tent or go for a schmick three-bedroom cabin. Bring the excess down just a notch by pitching up at the park’s campsite or booking a powered caravan site.

8. Lake Eppalock Holiday Park

Though it’s a 30-minute drive from the centre of Bendigo, the rural location of Lake Eppalock Holiday Park is undeniably the allure.

Featuring 2.5 kilometres of lake frontage, a stay at this Bendigo accommodation is your ticket to a nature-focused getaway perfect for water babies. That lake is great for swimming, canoeing, boating and water skiing, while various species of perch inhabit the waters so it’s a hit with anglers, too.

You can, of course, camp or park your RV, though there are standard, deluxe and premium cabins available for those who fancy extended creature comforts. Beyond the lure of the lake, visitors can exploit onsite facilities spanning a heated pool, a playground, a games room, a jumping pillow, a mountain bike track, and even an open-air cinema come summer.

Airbnb and holiday homes

From spacious abodes begging to be filled with large groups to intimate apartments inviting true romance, the best Bendigo Airbnbs and holiday homes flow with unique charms.

9. The Stables at Byronsvale

a married couple at The Stables at Byronsvale, Bendigo
The Stables at Byronsvale is an idyllic wedding venue.

Searching for an idyllic winter escape? The Stables at Byronsvale comprise three self-contained apartments immersed in photo-ready, vine dripping wine country. Located about ten minutes’ drive from the centre of town, this Bendigo accommodation is romance central, complete with sandstone walls, parquetry floors and full kitchens so you can stock up on supplies and never leave. Even more enticing, gourmet breakfast baskets and yoga classes can be arranged upon request.

10. Grandview Apartment

Grandview apartment in Bendigo
The apartment is swathed in sumptuous red velvet.

It would be tough to come up with a better way to describe this Bendigo Airbnb than pure theatre—you need to see it to appreciate it. An atmospheric gem of a place, Grandview Apartment gives off a near stately vibe with exposed red-brick walls, ornate brass wall sconces, dark timber furniture and plush crimson soft furnishings. Whatever the season, this one-of-a-kind Bendigo accommodation appeals. Come winter, there are plenty of nooks to lean into with a good book, and when warm weather breaks through, its sizable balcony is a lovely spot for sundowners.

11. Bendigo Cottage

Bendigo accommodation
The cosy cottage is heated by a fireplace in winter. (Image: Bendigo Cottage)

Almost every conceivable amenity you could need is on offer at two-bedroom Bendigo Airbnb —a hot tub, indoor fireplace, Nespresso coffee machine, blackout blinds, cot, highchair, bathtub, children’s books and toys, even condiments and breakfast supplies. An Airbnb ‘plus’ property, this little cottage – complete with a white picket fence – features a simple, modern and minimalist design and is located just on the northern cusp of the CBD, across the road from the historical Ulumbarra Theatre.

12. Harcourt House

the exterior of Harcourt House, Bendigo
The elegant exterior of Harcourt House boasts country charm in spades.

Travelling en masse? Harcourt House is our top pick. This spotlessly clean five-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home was made for groups, sleeping up to 10, and it also happens to be tastefully designed, too. The facade features a fretwork verandah and a palette of smoky greys and creamy whites, while inside you’ll find clean lines, modern furnishings and pared-back styling.

The crowning glory is its large, well-equipped kitchen, which features every amenity as well as plenty of pantry staples (tea, coffee, hot chocolate, flour, oil, vinegar, canned goods, pasta and cereal). Enjoy a home-cooked meal while sitting at the kitchen island or venture al fresco and linger over a long lunch on this Bendigo Airbnb’s deck.

Originally written by Chloe Cann with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best restaurants to check out while you’re in Bendigo

Chloe Cann
Chloe Cann is an award-winning freelance travel and food writer, born in England, based in Melbourne and Roman by adoption. Since honing her skills at City St George's, University of London with a master's degree in journalism, she's been writing almost exclusively about travel for more than a decade, and has worked in-house at newspapers and travel magazines in London, Phnom Penh, Sydney and Melbourne. Through a mixture of work and pleasure, she's been fortunate enough to visit 80 countries to date, though there are many more that she is itching to reach. While the strength of a region's food scene tends to dictate the location of her next trip, she can be equally swayed by the promise of interesting landscapes and offbeat experiences. And with a small person now in tow, travel looks a little different these days, but it remains at the front of her mind.
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Unforgettable First Peoples tours and experiences in Victoria

    Angela SaurineBy Angela Saurine
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    From ancient aquaculture systems to sacred rock art shelters, Victoria’s First Peoples cultural experiences offer a powerful connection to one of the world’s oldest living cultures – where every site, story and smoking ceremony invites a deeper understanding of the land beneath your feet. 

    Victoria’s sweeping landscapes hold stories far older than any road map can trace – stories etched into stone, sung through generations and woven into every bend of river and rise of hill. From the lava flows of Budj Bim to the ancient middens of Moyjil/Point Ritchie and the volcanic crater of Tower Hill, the state is home to some of the most significant First Peoples cultural sites in Australia. These places, along with other immersive experiences, offer not only a window into a 60,000-year legacy, but a profound way of understanding Country itself. As more travellers seek connection over checklists, guided tours by Traditional Owners offer respectful, unforgettable insights into a living culture that continues to shape the land and the people who walk it. 

    Budj Bim cultural landscape  

    Budj Bim Cultural Landscape
    Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is on Gunditjmara Country. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Venture beyond the surf and sand of the Great Ocean Road to discover a deeper story etched into the volcanic landscape. At Budj Bim , ancient aquaculture channels built by the Gunditjmara people to trap, store and harvest kooyang (short-finned eel) reveal one of the world’s oldest living cultures. While you’re in the area, head over to the state-of-the-art Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre, where you can observe the eels in a special tank, wander the shores of Tae Rak (Lake Condah), and enjoy a bite at the Bush Tucker Cafe. Also nearby is Tower Hill, a dormant volcano reborn as a wildlife reserve, offering trails through bushland teeming with emus and koalas. 

    eel tank
    The kooyang (eel) tank at Tae Rak. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Dumawul Kooyoora Walking Tour 

    Dumawul walkingtour
    Guests are guided through Kooyoora State Park on the Dumawul walking tour. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Step into a timeless landscape with Dumawul’s guided tour through Kooyoora State Park, around an hour’s drive west of Bendigo in north-central Victoria. Led by Djaara guides, this immersive half-day journey breathes life into Country, weaving together stories, bush tucker and ancient rock art. Known to the Dja Dja Wurrung people as Guyura – the ‘mountain of light’ – this dramatic granite range is rich with cultural and spiritual significance.  The adventure begins with a meet-up at the Bridgewater Hotel on the banks of the Loddon River, before guests are welcomed onto Country with a traditional Smoking Ceremony – a powerful ritual that honours ancestors and cleanses those who walk the land. From there, it’s a gentle wander through rugged outcrops and open bushland, with sweeping vistas unfolding at every turn. Along the way, guides share their knowledge of how the Dja Dja Wurrung peoples have cared for and adapted with this land for generations, offering a rare and moving window into an ancient way of life that continues to thrive today.  

    Kooyoora walking tour
    Knowledge of the Dja Dja Wurrung is shared on the trail. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Kingfisher Cruises  

    Kingfisher Cruises
    Cruising the Murray with Kingfisher Cruises. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Glide quietly through the Barmah-Millewa forest – the nation’s largest river red gum ecosystem – on a scenic journey along the Murray River and into the Barmah Lakes with Kingfisher Cruises . Led by passionate guides who share stories of the cultural significance of this ancient landscape, these cruises reveal the stories, totems and traditional knowledge of the Yorta Yorta people. As you navigate narrow waterways and spot native birds, you’ll gain a richer understanding of how First Peoples have lived in harmony with this floodplain for tens of thousands of years. It’s a gentle, immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression – one where every bend in the river carries echoes of culture, connection and Country.  

    wawa biik 

    Taungurung leaders
    Exploring Nagambie with Taungurung leaders. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Translating to ‘hello, Country’ in the language of the First Nations People and Custodians of the rivers and mountains of Taungurung Country in Central Victoria, wawa biik guides a range of authentic and deeply immersive experiences. Leaving from either Nagambie or Euroa, the tours are woven with ancient stories of the Taungurung, telling how a sustained connection and responsibility ensures the continued health of biik – benefitting the people, animals and plants that live in and around the Goulburn River. During the wawa Nagambie experience, guests participate in a Welcome Smoking Ceremony, and enjoy lunch and conversation with two Taungurung leaders as they cruise through the wetlands of tabilk-tabilk (place of many waterholes). The 4.5-hour tour begins at Tahbilk Winery, which is set in the wetlands of Nagambie on Taungurung Country and collaborates with Taungurung Elders to share knowledge of biik. 

    Bataluk Cultural Trail  

    Bataluk Trail
    Cape Conran on the Bataluk Trail. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    The Bataluk Cultural Trail winds through East Gippsland like a thread stitching past to present, tracing the deep connection between the Gunaikurnai people and their land. Starting at the Knob Reserve in Stratford, visitors walk among scarred trees and ancient stone tools once used for survival and ceremony. At the Den of Nargun near Mitchell River, the earth holds stories of women’s sacred spaces, cloaked in myth and legend. Further along, Legend Rock at Metung tells of greed and consequence, its surface etched with ancient lore. At Cape Conran, shell middens lie scattered like breadcrumbs of history – 10,000 years of gatherings, stories and saltwater songs still echoing in the wind.  

    Healesville Sanctuary  

    echidna at Healesville Sanctuary
    Get up close with a resident echidna at Healesville Sanctuary. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Set on the historic grounds of Coranderrk Aboriginal Station, Healesville Sanctuary honours the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation through immersive storytelling and connection to Country. Along Wurundjeri Walk, visitors are invited to reflect on the land’s rich First Peoples history, with native plants revealing their traditional uses. Wurundjeri Elder and educator Murrundindi shares culture in-person with the Wominjeka Aboriginal Cultural Experience every Sunday, and most days during Victorian school holidays. Murrundindi’s smoking ceremonies, storytelling and bush tucker knowledge reveal the sacred relationship between people, animals and the environment. Bird-lovers can’t miss the incredible Spirits of the Sky show featuring native birds daily at 12pm and 3pm. 

    The Grampians 

    Rock art at Bunjil Shelter in The Grampians
    Rock art at Bunjil Shelter in The Grampians. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Known as Gariwerd to Traditional Owners, the Grampians is a place of immense cultural and spiritual significance. This rugged landscape holds more than 80 per cent of Victoria’s known First Peoples rock art, offering a powerful window into the region’s deep heritage. Visitors can respectfully explore five remarkable rock art sites: Billimina and Ngamadjidj in the Wartook Valley, Manja Shelter near Hamilton, Gulgurn Manja shelter near Laharum, and the Bunjil Shelter near Stawell, where the creator spirit is depicted. Each site tells a unique story of connection to Country, shared through ancient handprints, dancing figures and Dreaming narratives etched into stone.