Destination style Discover Daylesford’s design treasures
WE EXPLORE AUSTRALIA’S MOST EXCITING DESIGN AND STYLE DESTINATIONS
Known for its world-famous mineral springs and spa resorts, Daylesford is nestled in the Central Highlands area of Victoria, 108 kilometres north-west of Melbourne. Boasting a rich history, award-winning eateries and wineries, and a stunning lake and nearby trails, this creative and vibrant town is perfect for a dreamy day trip or weekend getaway.
shop
1. Found What started out as a creative outlet and a way for mother-daughter duo Helen Curtis and Alexandra Box to spend time together, has grown into a successful antiques store. A mix of functional and decorative, you can pick up unique pieces carefully selected by the pair from travels in Australia and France. Visit: 119 Vincent St. Bookmark: found.style.
2. eCasa Stepping into this beautifully curated store feels like being transported to a homewares boutique in a quaint European village. Be tempted by wares including beautiful French knives by Claude Dozorme, Portuguese ceramics by Bordallo Pinheiro and divine hand-stamped Italian linen by Stamperia Pascucci.
Visit: 89 Vincent St.
Bookmark: ecasadaylesford.com.au.
dine
3. Winespeake Cellar + Deli Opened in June 2020 (yep, smack bang in the middle of Victoria’s lockdown), this gourmand’s delight offers more than 700 wines and 100 cheeses from the region and across the world to choose from. It’s the perfect place to stop off, grab a seat and discover something delicious.
Visit: 4/26 Vincent St.
Bookmark: winespeake.com.au.
4. RESTAURANT @ LAKE HOUSE
OVERLOOKING THE TREETOPS AND SHORES OF LAKE DAYLESFORD, THE TWO-HATTED RESTAURANT IS KNOWN AS THE BEATING HEART OF THE LAKE HOUSE BRAND. ON OFFER IS A SUPERB FOUR-COURSE A LA CARTE MENU, WHICH HIGHLIGHTS SEASONAL PRODUCE (BELOW) FROM LOCAL SUPPLIERS AND GROWERS, AS WELL AS PRODUCE FROM THE COMPANY’S OWN DAIRY FLAT FARM. VISIT: 4 KING ST.
BOOKMARK: LAKEHOUSE.COM.AU.
5. Bistro Terroir
After five years as a chef in Paris and the French Alps, Matthew Carnell was ready to return to Australia and open his own French restaurant. He found himself gravitating towards Daylesford, where he knew he could showcase affordable French food with a twist in a relaxed atmosphere. Three years on, Matthew has opened Bistro Terroir. On the menu, find French classics such as Escargot Facon Pascal (tempura snails), Twice Baked Gruyère Soufflé, Steak Frites, Crème Brûlée and Macarons.
Visit: 6-8 Howe St.
Bookmark: bistroterroir.com.au.
explore
6. Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens + Wombat Hill House Cafe
Meander through the historic Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, perched above Wombat Hill in the centre of Daylesford. Set atop an extinct volcano, the gardens offer a vast display of plants, spectacular views of Wombat State Forest and Mount Franklin, a scenic drive and a lookout tower. After exploring the gardens, head to the old caretaker’s cottage, home to Wombat Hill House Cafe, a side project from the team at the Lake House. The cafe offers fresh bread, yummy filled baguettes, doughnuts and pastries.
Visit: Central Springs Rd.
Bookmark: wombathillhouse.com.au.
7. The Amazing Mill Markets
For those who love to scour shelves to find a hidden gem, The Amazing Mill Markets is a must-visit packed with vintage delights. Home to hundreds of stallholders, you can find a selection of vintage clothes, furniture, collectables, antiques, art, glass, jewellery, books and more. Whatever your budget, The Amazing Mill Markets will not disappoint. Visit: 105 Central Springs Rd.
Bookmark: millmarkets.com.au. >
“DIVINE HOMEWARES, VINTAGE TREASURES AND FAB FOOD AND WINE? I’M THERE!” ~ KATRINA O’BRIEN, ACTING EDITOR
STAY
8. Wentworth House
When Jessica Holmes of Dunbarlo Interiors and her partner, David, bought Wentworth House more than five years ago, the duo wanted to live in the miner’s cottage first before putting their own stamp on it. With the feeling of a high-end boutique hotel, but the ease and relaxed comforts of a country holiday home, Wentworth House offers a truly unique stay for up to six guests in a private, secluded location on the cusp of enchanting Lake Daylesford.
Visit: 38 King St.
Bookmark: wentworthhouse.com.au.
9. Lake House
What began as a fine-dining country restaurant in 1984, has evolved into an all-inclusive retreat and member of the Luxury Lodges of Australia. Tucked amidst two hectares of country waterfront gardens, the stunning Lake House consists of more than 30 elegant studios and suites, with the majority offering balconies or outdoor terraces overlooking beautiful Lake Daylesford or the hotel’s infinity pool. A state-of-the-art spa, complete with an outdoor sauna and jacuzzi, a tennis court, spectacular two-hatted restaurant and well-stocked 13,000-bottle cellar are just some of the amazing features on offer here. Visit: 4 King St.
Bookmark: lakehouse.com.au.