Outdoor Activities

You will be surprised and delighted by the range of walking and hiking options in and around the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area. From a leisurely stroll around Lake Daylesford (a “must do”), to the much more energetic hike along the Tipperary Springs track (optional, of course!), there’s something to suit all ages and fitness levels.

Wildmindfulness

Mindfulness based hikes, tours & workshops : wildmindfulness.com.au

Lake Daylesford

Relax by the water at picturesque Lake Daylesford. Find paddleboats for hire, a children’s playground, undercover barbecues and on weekends, usually a wedding or two to stop and look at. Allow around 45 minutes to walk around the lake’s gentle, sloping, tree-lined path, taking in a couple of stops (the jetty is a good one) to soak up the stunning vistas.

Lake Daylesford Circuit Grade: Gentle Distance: 2.5km / 45 minutes

 

Jubilee Lake and the Two Lakes Trail

Jubilee Lake was previously known as “Hepburn Goldfields Reservoir” and was built to supply water to local gold mines during the 1860’s gold rush. Now it’s a family-friendly fishing spot that’s stocked regularly with rainbow trout. For the more energetic, why not combine two beautiful lakes of Daylesford on a trail which includes Cornish Hill.

Jubilee Lake Grade: Gentle Distance: 1.6 km / 30 minutes
Two Lakes Trail Grade: Moderate Distance: 9.4 km / 3 hours

 

Wombat Botanical Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll (or scenic drive) around the main circular track atop the hill, which is the summit of an extinct volcano. Or if you are feeling a bit more energetic, take the various paths up and down the hillsides to check out the 10 hectares of lovely gardens that date back to the 1860’s. For a great view, climb the 77 stairs to the lookout tower and make sure you enjoy coffee and cake at the Wombat Hill House Café. It’s also a great place for a picnic and dogs are allowed on leash.

 

Cornish Hill

Enjoy stunning views from the top of town on this track, which is also suitable for the TrailRider All Terrain Wheelchair. Starting at Thomas’ Lookout on Argus Hill, those who are up to the challenge will be rewarded with beautiful views over the forest surrounding Daylesford.

Cornish Hill Grade: Adventurous Distance: 5 km / 2 hours

 

Tipperary Walking Track, including Twin Bridges

This 14 km track is easily divided into three sections. Tracing the route of the old water races cut by miners last century, the Tipperary Walking Track passes disused goldfields, mineral springs and stands of deciduous trees that blaze with colour in autumn. Keep your eye out for relics of the mining era along the trail, like the disused Mistletoe Mine on the Bryces Flat section. Don’t forget to take a drink bottle so you can also sample the mineral spring waters from various pumps and pipes along the way.

Lake Daylesford to Twin Bridges  Grade: Moderate Distance: 2.6 km / 1 hour
Twin Bridges to Tipperary Springs Grade: Moderate Distance: 4.6 km / 1.5 hours
Tipperary Springs to Bryces Flat Grade: Moderate Distance: 6.6 km / 2.5 hours

 

Sailors Falls Loop Walk

Located 6 km south of Daylesford, this lovely 30 metre high seasonal waterfall is thought to be named after all the sailors who jumped ship for the 1850’s gold rush. Follow the staircase down to access the creek trail, falls and mineral springs along the way. Worth a visit all year round, but you are most likely to see the water flowing in winter/spring.

Sailors Falls Loop Walk Grade: Moderate Distance: 1.4 km / 25 minutes

 

Information sourced from the Hepburn Shire Council.

Gentle:  On formed tracks over even and gently undulating terrain.

Moderate:  Tracks may be narrower with steps, variable surfaces and some tripping hazards. Mostly gentle grade.

Adventurous:  Bushwalking or bike riding experience recommended. Track may be rough, long and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.

All times and distances listed are return trips. Dogs are permitted on all walks, but must be on a lead at all times.

 

After all this fresh air and exercise, we think you fully deserve a relaxing Spa or Hot Tub or perhaps whip up a cheese platter to enjoy by the fireplace. Browse through our boutique collection of Daylesford accommodation for your next country getaway.