Mount Macedon

Walk in the footsteps of nineteenth century-Melbourne's well-heeled residents and escape the summer heat amid imposing mansions and glorious gardens.

Gardens open and closed
Some of the area's most immaculately preserved gardens are private, so time your visit for Open Gardens Scheme open days throughout the year for the chance to peek behind fences.

Making do with public parks and reserves won't disappoint at all, with manicured gardens accompanying more rugged environs. Smell the roses at the historic State Nursery at Macedon and take the Forest Eco-Tourism Walking Trail at Sanatorium Lake. You can also enjoy panoramic views, scenic drives, picnic facilities, walking trails, cultural and historic sites of interest and a diversity of flora and fauna at Macedon Regional Park.

Soaring views
If you're after spectacular views, you're in the right area, with stunning vistas of Melbourne and beyond from Mount Macedon's famous memorial cross and lookout. See Hanging Rock and the northern rural landscape from Camels Hump, a rocky outcrop formed by a small steep-sided volcano.

Food and wine
Take advantage of the region's superb food and wine reputation. Pick up fresh local produce from farm gates and provedores and meet winemakers and taste wines at cellar doors, including Hanging Rock (be sure to grab the iconic Macedon Cuvee), Curly Flat, Cobaw Ridge, Bindi and Granite Hills.