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The Region

Located in Daylesford/Hepburn Springs, the indulgence and spa capital of Australia, Shizuka Ryokan is an ideal base from which to explore the multitude of local attractions such as those illustrated in the following ...

 

The vast majority of Australia's mineral water spas are located nearby, with the famous Hepburn Springs bath-house complex just a few minutes away.

Gourmets and foodies may enjoy the many fine local cafes and restaurants, such as the world-renowned Lake House, each offering innovative regional or international cuisine utilising the abundant local produce.

Local vineyards and wineries are deservedly attracting increasing recognition and popularity and many are open for inspections, tastings and cellar-door sales.

Arts and craft buyers are well catered for at galleries including The Convent and The Panthechnicon, as are book browsers and antique buyers. History and genealogy buffs will be well occupied and sporting types can play golf amongst the kangaroos or perhaps explore the countryside on horseback.

Over two hundred spa and theurapeutic therapies are on offer. For instance, palmistry and tarot consultations are offered by Donna Barnard or The Readers.

Alternate and unusual shopping becomes the norm, with a huge range of collectables available at The Mill Markets.

A rich Swiss Italian heritage serves to further imbibe the local culture with colour and distinction. Worth a visit is the Swiss Italian farm, Lavandula, where good sightseeing, shopping and eating is to be enjoyed.

So picturesque and historical is the region that it has frequently featured in cinema, ranging from "Ned Kelly" to "Love's Brother".

With regional centres such as Ballarat and Bendigo well under an hour's drive away as well as closer access to charming and historical towns such as Castlemaine, Trentham and Clunes, "Spa Country" really can claim to offer something for everyone.

The current campaign from Tourism Victoria entitled "Daylesford - Lead A Double Life" highlights some of the region's indulgences...


Here's what some independent sites have said about the region...

Plus, these informative official sites will provide even more local intelligence...

Some up-to-date practical information