Get Away From It All And Escape To Daylesford Australia
In 1838, John Hepburn was the first the European settlers to arrive in this area. It was not until nearly three decades later that an alluvial gold find by Irish immigrant John Egan sparked the local gold rush the attracted people to permanently settle here. During the 1960s, the gold ran out and the focus of the miners turned to quartz. By the time the railway was completed in 1881, word was out and the popularity of the spa town grew.In 1890, the School of Mines was constructed to teach lead miners the industry"s newest techniques. The structure is still standing to this day and serves lends its space to the Daylesford Historical Society Museum. Among the most authentic museums of its kind in Victoria, the tradition of gold mining, and the agriculture and saw mill industries are housed within its walls in addition to various items left over by the native Aborigines.
This area enjoys a long tradition as the wellness capital of Australia and there are very few businesses around town that do not cater to making people feel good. Accommodations can be found in unique boutique hotels sprinkled throughout Daylesford and Hepburn Springs and visitors are drawn to the breathtaking lake views and the relaxing spa treatment programs that are found there.
Local restaurants employ professional trained chefs who pride themselves on using only the freshest local ingredients in their tasty culinary concoctions. The sensational season fare is in great demand and local farms and vineyards offer up wines and fresh produce to complete the dining experience.
Wellness centers are important to the local economy and nearly everywhere you look are establishments dedicated to alternative therapies and various massage techniques designed to make you feel better. This is the perfect destination for those who are stressed out and ready to get away from it all. The town is full of qualified therapists trained in various disciplines and ready to serve at all times.
One of the more popular centers around is Lavandula Lavender Farm where an official world record was set for the most people involved in a simultaneous massage session. The feat occurred in March 2010 when 263 masseuses and their subjects descended on the Farm and participated in twelve minutes of continuous massage at the same time.
Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens is perched atop a dormant volcano and was added to the Victorian Heritage Register in 2009. The gardens were opened in 1863 and are recognized for their scientific, aesthetic and historic value. Shaded picnic areas, extensive lawns and numerous walking trails invite exploration. A climb to the very top of the Pioneers Lookout Tower will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city that are second to known. The Conservatory houses an annual begonia display that is quite popular with visitors during the autumn months.
For a taste of history, take a ride on the heritage train to the Wombat State Forest. Operated by the Daylesford Spa Country Railway, a diesel train ride is also offered during early evening tours and features cocktails and finger foods for riders. The weekly market takes place on Sundays at the train station in town.
The luxurious accommodations, award winning restaurants and centers dedicated to your well being are just some of the reasons you should make Daylesford your vacation destination.