Mount Macedon
Enter the time slip: spectacular, mysterious Mount Macedon is less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne
1 Climb the mountain
A scenic road winds its way over the top of Mount Macedon, past picturesque garden estates, while walking trails link landmarks Camels Hump and Mount Towrong with nearby villages. Macedon Regional Park is home over 400 species of native plants and 200 species of bird. Mount Macedon 3441.
2 Enjoy the view from the Memorial Cross
An impressive 21m in height, the Cross commemorates those who gave their lives in World War I. The view from the Cross takes in the entire southern plain towards Port Phillip Bay. Mount Macedon 3441.
3 Explore Forest Glade Gardens
Mount Macedon was once the playground of the rich and famous and evidence of this can be found at one of Australia’s finest private gardens, which spans 5.6ha and four themes: English garden, Japanese garden, woodland and fern gully. 816 Mount Macedon Rd, Mount Macedon 3441. www. thestokescollection.com.au. Daily 10am-4.30pm. $8.
4 Shout ‘Miranda’ (or not) at Hanging Rock
Joan Lindsay’s 1967 novel and Peter Weir’s 1975 film Picnic at Hanging Rock have immortalised this eerie geological formation a few kilometres north of Mount Macedon. The site is named after a boulder that is suspended between other boulders on the main path. You can climb the rock and enjoy great views, and utilise the barbecue facilities. An entry fee applies. Woodend 3442. 1800 244 711. Daily 9am-5pm. $10 (normal vehicles).
5 Experience the bizarre Anti-gravity Hill
If Hanging Rock wasn’t enough of a head trip, this stretch of road nearby seems to defy Isaac Newton’s laws. Water, balls and even cars will roll uphill thanks to either a mysterious magnetic force or an optical illusion – depending on whom you ask. Straws Ln, Woodend 3442.
6 Toast your weekend away at Hanging Rock Winery
The Macedon Ranges is Australia’s coolest grape-growing region. Established in 1983, Hanging Rock Winery is famous for sparkling wines Macedon NV Brut and Macedon NV Brut LD. Estate-grown beef is also available at the cellar door. 88 Jim Rd, Newham 3442. 03 5427 0542. www.hangingrock.com.au. Daily 10am-5pm.
7 Dine and stock up on produce at Baringo
Offering sweeping views of Mount Macedon and the valley, Baringo is a café, bistro, wine bar and provedore showcasing the produce of the region. They also have a 30-seat theatre that plays arthouse films. 283 Station Rd, New Gisbourne 3438. baringo.net.au. Tue-sun noon-10pm.
Walk the boulevard of Macedon Village
Get glimpses of grand homes and gardens in the quiet town centre, which sprang up in 1851 during the Gold Rush. Honour Avenue is an impressive avenue of oak trees commemorating people of the region who enlisted during World War I. 283 Station Rd, New Gisbourne 3438. baringo. net.au. Tue-sun noon-10pm.
9 Stay at Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat
This B&B on 27 acres of hillside bushland has a large-english style garden where native birds are a feature. Three comfortable cottages welcome visitors with wood fires and breakfast hampers ready for you to prepare. 47 Taylors Rd, Mount Macedon 3441. www.braesidemtmacedon.com.au.
10 Attend Woodend Winter Arts Festival
The township northwest of the mountain, hosts an annual festival of local art and craft, music and talks. Highlights in 2016 include Slava Grigoryan and Sharon Draper (guitar/cello) and author Kate Grenville in conversation. Woodend 3442. woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au. Jun 10-13.