Destinations
The discovery of gold in Victoria's central region over 150 years ago has left a rich and lasting legacy in almost every town in the Goldfields. Tour the impressive Victorian streetscapes of Bendigo and Ballarat with their grand hotels and public buildings, or explore the delightful villages such as Maldon, Castlemaine, Heathcote and Dunolly.
In the galleries
The region is an arts and cultural haven boasting outstanding galleries. See superb collections of local and European painting at two of Australia's finest regional galleries – the Art Gallery of Ballarat and Bendigo Art Gallery, or visit one of the smaller private galleries and artist studios.
History and heritage
Learn about gold rush history at one of the region's historic attractions. Sovereign Hill, The Eureka Centre and the Central Deborah Gold Mine all offer a fascinating insight into life above and below the ground during the 1850s and 1860s.
Food, wine and fresh produce
Take a break from exploring the Goldfields at a stylish local cafe or restaurant. Restaurants make the most of the fine produce of the region, and you can also sample the local wines, olives, apples, cheeses and more, direct from the farm gate or cellar door.
Out and about
Enjoy the outdoors along the 190 kilometre Goldfields Track or wander around a stately garden, many dating back to the 1860s.
Discover the rich history and heritage of Ballarat and explore the site of the world's largest deposit of alluvial gold.
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Explore Victoria's golden heritage in elegant Bendigo, where 'boom town' architecture nestles among century-old gardens and established trees.
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Castlemaine's history is visible in its fine public buildings, ornate hotels and century-old shops selling everything from gourmet food to antiques.
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Visit the area that turned up more gold nuggets than any other region in Australia, including the largest nugget in the world, the ‘Welcome Stranger’.
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Visit Heathcote and discover a quaint town nestled in a picturesque bush setting at the foot of the McIvor Range.
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Wander down historic streetscapes in Maldon, Australia's first 'notable town' as proclaimed by the National Trust in 1966.
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Discover Maryborough, a progressive town where contemporary architecture is combined with the ornate facades of gold rush buildings.
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