Victoria Tourism Photo Gallery Vic Australia

Boating with the ducks on Lake Daylesford in the Macedon Ranges Victoria, in Victorian Spa Country Australia.

Located in Daylesford, the lake is a tranquil remnant of the 19th century gold mining boom which shaped the area along with an influx of early settlers from the border regions of Italy and Switzerland. Australia's first pasta factory was established in nearby Hepburn Springs in 1859 (now a heritage listed building) and the European respect for the healing properties of mineral water lead to the protection of mineral springs from mining with the establishment in 1870 of the Mineral Springs Reserve.

By the beginning of 20th century Dayleford/Hepburn Springs, with at least 65 mineral springs in the district, was a booming tourist centre especially for Melbournites desiring to take the waters, enjoy the picture theatres and stay in the many hotels and guesthouses.

Today little has changed as Daylesford/Hepburn Springs, with one of the largest concentrations in Australia of Bed and Breakfast and Cottage accommodation, is still an important destination catering for the many tourists seeking an indulgent getway of spas, massages, art galleries, fine wines and great food.