There's something for the whole family in the Central Highlands. Large regional cities and small towns allow visitors to enjoy regional Victoria. Spoil yourself at one of the many day spas in the area or step back in time and try your luck panning for gold at Sovereign Hill.

Outdoors

Go to the Kooyoora State Park for hiking on and in between large boulders. Or visit botanic gardens in city centres that are full of colour. For the thrill seekers, walk or ride the 200-kilometre Goldfields Track connecting Ballarat and Bendigo.

Click here for more information on the Goldfields Track, Kooyoora State Park and outdoor activities.

Sovereign Hill

See what life was like during Australia's great 1850s gold rush. Dress in the clothes they wore and venture through houses that people would've lived in. Be sure to check out the sweet shops for the famous raspberry drops - a local favourite!

Click here for information on Sovereign Hill.

Bendigo's Talking Trams

For a guided tour of Bendigo's history, jump on one of Bendigo's famous Talking Trams. Travelling from Central Deborah Gold Mine, along High Street, Pall Mall and to the historic Joss House in North Bendigo, you'll pass many of the city's landmarks. Jump off at Lake Weeroona for a coffee or at the Alexandra Fountain for a short walk to the CBD's shops, eateries and the View Street arts precinct.

Follow the link for more information on the Talking Trams.

Piper Street, Kyneton

Located in the heart of the region, the historic Piper Street precinct features something for everyone. From shops and cafes to cosy wine bars and fine dining, the strip offers something in all conditions. Summer is the ideal time for outdoor dining before autumn brings an explosion of colour, then the crisp air and plots of daffodils along the roadside in winter and spring's regenerative sunlight brings the region to life - literally.

Follow the link to learn more about Piper Street.

Festivals

Throughout the year this area has a full calibre of events and markets to celebrate the many celebrations throughout the year. These include music, art and culture with a strong connection to the history of the area including indigenous and the gold rush. Bendigo's iconic Easter Festival is a particular highlight and celebrates the city's rich Chinese heritage.

Click here for information on what's on, music and major events.

Food and wine

Enjoy the regions wine and produce at one of the many festivals held throughout the year. Or, head to an array of wine regions in the Central Highlands including Bendigo, Heathcote, Ballarat and Pyrenees.

Click here to find out more about food and wine.

Art & Heritage

Visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat, the oldest and largest regional gallery in Australia. The Bendigo Art Gallery also features renowned exhibits including fashion, indigenous artists and contemporary works.

Click here to learn more about the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Bendigo Art Gallery and exhibits in the region.

Shopping

Check out one of the region's weekend markets to get fresh produce, flowers and handmade products. These vary throughout the year but visitors and locals are bound to find something special and unique!

Click here for information on markets and vintage.

Relaxation

One of the things that makes this region most well known is its spa retreats. Visit one or many bathhouses and day spas for a range of treatments and therapies as well as natural springs throughout Daylesford, Hepburn Springs and the Macedon Ranges. Make a weekend of it with overnight stays and packages available.

Click here for information on day spas in Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges.

Other links

City of Ballarat Events - event calendar, events and enquiries

Bendigo Region What's On - markets, events, arts and festivals