mount macedon places to visit

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of Melbourne for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Melbourne without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture Awards
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Bars & Pubs
• Theatre & Dance
• Music & Nightlife
• Area Guides
• Competitions
• Los Angeles

Ten reasons to visit 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 Camel's Hump and Mount Towrong with nearby villages. Macedon Regional Park is home to over 400 species of native plants and 200 species of birds.  Mount Macedon 3441.

2. Enjoy the view from the Memorial Cross

An impressive 21 metres in height, the Memorial 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 5.6 hectares 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. Make like an adventurer and climb the rocks to enjoy great views, and bring a picnic or to barbecue for when you need to refuel when you get down. 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 the laws of gravity. Water, balls, and even cars will roll uphill thanks to either a mysterious magnetic force or an optical illusion – depending on who 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 stunning 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.

8. 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 from the region who enlisted during World War I.  Mount Macedon 3441.

9. Stay at Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat

This bed and breakfast on 27 acres of green, hillside bushland has a large English-style garden where native birds are a feature. Three comfortable and private cottages welcome visitors with wood fires and breakfast hampers ready for you to prepare. A good option for romantic getaways or a pampering retreat.  47 Taylors Rd, Mount Macedon 3441. www.braesidemtmacedon.com.au .

10. Attend the Woodend Winter Arts Festival

The township northwest of the mountain hosts an annual festival celebrating local art and craft, music performances and informative talks. Highlights coming up for the 2016 festival include performances by classical musicians Slava Grigoryan and Sharon Draper and Secret River author Kate Grenville in conversation.  Woodend 3442. woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au . Jun 10-13.

Planning a visit?

Go to www.wandervictoria.com or www.visitmacedoneranges.com to get your expedition to Mount Macedon underway.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

[image] [title]

• Acknowledgement of Country
• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Reviews policy
• Competition terms
• About the site
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Report an error
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

• Privacy Policy
• Site Directory
• Wednesday 3rd July 2024

Macedon and Mt. Macedon Tourism

• Local Information
• Accommodation
• Gardens & Nurseries
• Real Estate
• Restaurants/Cafe
• Shopping | Retail
• Tours & Guides
• Weddings & Events
• Local Places of Interest
• Markets & Fairs
• Macedon Gallery

Honour Avenue, Macedon

Things to do.

There are so many interesting and fun things to do in THE MACEDON & MOUNT MACEDON DISTRICT

• View the spectacular Autumn colours of Honour Avenue and the surrounding district during the Autumn season throughout the area.
• Enjoy walking, running, cycling or horseback riding on the many trails throughout the Macedon Regional Park or linking local villages.
• Experience Anti-Gravity Hill .
• Visit the local markets and experience local produce from the many boutique farms.
• Visit a variety of art galleries, private collections and gardens.
• Have fun and picnic at the horse races at magical Hanging Rock .
• Take a bus tour or simply visit and enjoy the flavours of the Macedon Regions’ cool climate wines and cuisines available at the annual Wine and Food Budburst Festival.
• Experience the Winter Arts Festival, concerts, galleries and workshops all year round.
• Enjoy the many attractions and stay at a wide selection of retreats and accommodation set among the beautiful garden settings and offering a tranquil, relaxing stay.

Social Media

What’s on.

Ash Wednesday Park – Flying Fox

The Community are all welcome participate and share the Flying Fox at Ash Wednesday Park. (see below for details) The Flying Fox was made possible by the generosity of the Gisborne & District Community Bank Branch of the Bendigo Bank and funding grant for the Flying Fox Project. Need more ... [Continue Reading]

Autumn Colours and Festival – Macedon and Mount Macedon

In 2024 the colours of the Autumn trees in Honour Avenue that provide such magnificent colours are as vibrant as ever. Visit and  experience the splendour. Macedon and Mount Macedon will again be the focus of the Autumn splendour that is unique to the area. Be sure to visit and enjoy ... [Continue Reading]

Annual Events and Festivals

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has a calendar of annual events in the Macedon Ranges, with the summer months the busiest period. January New Years Day Races at Hanging Rock Racecourse Australia Day Races Hanging Rock Racecourse February Macedon District Car Club Annual Picnic & ... [Continue Reading]

Duneira Estate, Mount Macedon

  Established in 1872, the Historic House and Grand Garden Duneira is the jewel of the Macedon Ranges. Enjoy the seasonal open gardens. Group tours of the residence as well as the gardens are available by appointment only. Join us for garden tours, house tours, open gardens and ... [Continue Reading]

• Gisborne Olde Time Market
• Woodend Village Lions Club Market

The Res: Macedon Reservoir

Lake adjoining Nursery Rd and Middle Gully Rd Macedon [map]. Macedon Reservoir (lake) is commonly known as ‘The Res’ locally and a favourite ... [Continue Reading]

The Community are all welcome participate and share the Flying Fox at Ash Wednesday Park. (see below for details) The Flying Fox was made possible ... [Continue Reading]

Hanging Rock

No visit to the Macedon Ranges is complete without visiting the hauntingly beautiful Hanging Rock. Visitors from around the world come to Hanging ... [Continue Reading]

Regarded as the world's most scenic road in Autumn, Honour Avenue, Macedon is visited by thousands every year. Honour Avenue, Macedon has 154 ... [Continue Reading]

Copyright © 2024 · Macedon and Mt. Macedon Business and Tourism Association Inc. (MMMBATA)

Return to top of page

• Attractions
• Workshops & Experiences
• Creative Arts
• Eat & Drink
• Health & Wellness
• History & Culture
• Itineraries
• Regional Recipes
• Events Calendar
• Places to Stay
• Find a Business

Mount Macedon Itinerary

Here’s a look at the ideal two-day stay in Mount Macedon.

All year round

The mountain village of Mount Macedon is a wonderful combination of heritage gardens and bushland filled with eucalyptus, pine and mountain ash trees. Originally a summer retreat for the city’s elite of the post-gold rush era of the 19th century, the area continues to draw the trendy set from near and far.

An ever-changing canvas throughout the seasons, Mount Macedon is spectacular in winter with dustings of snow creating white wonderlands to explore. Spring brings the blossoming of wisteria, daffodils and magnolias all over the mountain, while in summer it provides a cool break from the heat. Although undeniably, it is at its most popular in autumn, as the trees turn a magnificent golden hue.

The natural beauty of the area is complimented by a vibrant food and wine scene, with charming cafés and cellar doors. You’ll also find plenty of boutique accommodation options to choose from.

Forest Glade Garden

Mount macedon tours, mount towrong, macedon regional park, mount macedon winery, hanging rock reserve, hanging rock winery.

About the author

Madeleine Blake

Madeleine is the PR manager at Daylesford Macedon Tourism and the editor of Daylesford Macedon Life magazine. A Woodend local, she loves getting out and about meeting with tourism operators and helping to spread the word about the many amazing things to do in the region. On the weekends, Madeleine can be found exploring the region with her three young kids in tow.

Share this itinerary

The quintessential modern rural village

Visit Woodend

Woodend is in the centre of the Macedon Ranges. It’s the quintessential modern rural village and the gateway to many attractions throughout the region.

Base yourself in Woodend if you enjoy hiking, biking, eating and drinking. Or simply a country escape, close to Melbourne.

What to do in Woodend

The town itself is set under wide verandas along the boulevard of the Old Calder Highway.

Here you’ll discover country-style bakeries, cosmopolitan cafes and brilliant pubs. There’s also a great selection of bookstores and shops with an eclectic mix of old and new wares.

Many visitors spend time in Woodend when visiting nearby Hanging Rock and boutique wineries.

Hanging Rock

The iconic Hanging Rock is located a short drive from Woodend. Here you can go hiking in Hanging Rock Reserve or fishing in the dam. Enjoy a game of cricket on the grassy fields and a barbecue with friends and family.

You’ll be amazed by the ancient volcanic rock formations as you hike to the summit of Hanging Rock. And you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views when you reach the top.

Five Mile Creek walk

A pleasant stroll or a vigorous walk – it’s up to you. The peaceful Five Mile Creek track is 3.4km and passes through picnic grounds, reserves and recreation areas. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching. Drop by the Visitor Information Centre in Woodend and they’ll point you in the right direction.

Road and mountain biking

Cycling enthusiasts use Woodend as a base for road, gravel and mountain biking adventures. Cycle country roads with Hanging Rock as your backdrop and drop into cellar doors along the way. Challenge yourself to steep climbs on Mount Macedon. Or check out the popular mountain biking tracks in the Wombat State Forest.

Here’s more info on Macedon Ranges bike routes and maps .

Pubs in Woodend

The Woodend pub scene is a cracker.

If beer is your favourite brew, head to Holgate Brewhouse , home to some of the best-known craft beers in Australia.

Holgate’s Tap Room, located inside a state-of-the-art brewery, offers 16 taps of core and special release beers, tasting paddles, and charcuterie and platters for you to enjoy.

Locals also love The Victoria Hotel , affectionately known as ‘The Vic’.

Their cosy fireplace in winter is a drawcard, as is their delicious, classic pub fare. The pub is also host to regular live music and events, so make sure to keep an eye out on our What’s On page.

Cafes, bakeries and restaurants

A short walk from The Vic is super-popular Japanese restaurant, Kuzu Izakaya . Make sure to book!

For barista coffee, brekkies and sweet treats, you can’t go past The Milko,   Maison Maloa or Fox in the Chamber. While French-influenced Paysanne is popular for breakfast and lunch.

If you want beautiful views to Mount Macedon, an extensive wine selection and a la carte dining, head to the The Wine Collective at Macedon Wine Room .

Love a good country bakery? Bourkies Bakehouse is the place to go. Make sure to check out their award-winning vanilla slices.

The kids are covered too, with the most amazing ice cream you’ve ever tasted. A visit to Woodend is not complete without a trip to the super popular Woodend Ice Cream Co.

See more places to eat and drink in Woodend .

Wine tasting near Woodend

Take a short drive to nearby Hanging Rock Winery , open 7 days. The (dog-friendly) winery has magnificent views to Hanging Rock, plus picnic boxes available at their cellar door.

It’s also a scenic drive to Hesket Estate ,  Mount Towrong Vineyard  and Mount Macedon Winery , all open weekends.

Gin tasting trail

For award-winning, locally distilled gin, venture to Big Tree Distillery in Newham  (weekends or by appointment), Mount Macedon’s Mountain Distilling at Mount Towrong Vineyard (weekends) or Kyneton’s Animus Distillery   (Wednesday to Sunday).

Farm gate experiences

Head out of Woodend in the direction of Macedon to Black Forest Farm for delicious homemade jams and relishes available year-round.

It’s also a very pretty forest drive to Azzurri Cheese Farm in Bolinda. Here you can buy fresh, handcrafted cheese from their farmgate daily between 10-5pm.

Woodend for families

Kids love the Woodend Children’s Park . This extensive playground has covered picnic shelters and gas barbecues perfect for a family day out.

Woodend Golf Club

Woodend Golf Course is a unique links course built on the hill outside town with views to Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon.

Places to stay in Woodend

For a beautifully curated guesthouse within walking distance to Woodend village, check out The Barn @ Braemar Cottage .

On the outskirts of Woodend, there’s a number of lovely places to stay for a nature escape. For a touch of luxury check out Oak Hill , and for groups of friends and family, Tree Change is a great option.

For a romantic retreat near Woodend, Rochford Schoolhouse B&B or The Retreat at Amry House are perfect.

On a budget? Check out The Dickins in the heart of town.

Here’s more ideas for places to stay in Woodend .

Local events in Woodend

Time a visit around the wonderful Woodend Village Farmers’ Market , held on the first Saturday of the month. Here you can treat yourself to super fresh, local and sustainably farmed produce, plus superb wine and ferments.

If you’re a keen mountain biker, don’t miss the annual Wombat MTB 25 and 50km challenge held in the Wombat State Forest each March.

Love baroque music, art and literature? The Woodend Winter Arts Festival in June is a must-do.

Tour experiences

People book well in advance to experience Hanging Rock Llama Treks , with a llama-led hike to at nearby Hanging Rock Reserve.

Or for a relaxing, historic experience, go on a vintage horse-drawn carriage ride with Yesteryear Today Carriages . They have a variety of rides including an old Cobb & Co stagecoach route and a trip to Hanging Rock Winery including fully catered picnics.

Attractions near Woodend

The historic village of Kyneton is a short 15 minute drive, where you’ll discover wonderful restaurants, art galleries and quirky retail stores.

Mount Macedon and Macedon Regional Park are popular destinations at any time of the year. Perfect for those who love bush walking, trail running , wildlife spotting and beautiful open gardens .

If you’re a keen gardener, make sure to visit Post Office Farm Nursery in nearby Ashbourne. Specialising exclusively in hellebores, this fantastic nursery opens exclusively to the public on weekends during April and October only.

How to get to Woodend

You can get to Woodend via the Calder Highway. It takes approximately one hour from Melbourne CBD. You can also reach Woodend via the V-line train that departs from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne or from Bendigo.

Our Villages

• Mount Macedon
• Riddells Creek

5 terrific trail runs to get your heart pumping

Love running outdoors surrounded by nature and fresh mountain air? Local trail runner Libby Nuttall reveals five trail running tracks on Mt Macedon.

Mountain biking and country pub session

Go mountain biking in the Wombat State Forest followed by burgers and beer in the nearby village of Woodend. Organised small group guided bike tours including equipment are available.

Travel by train to Woodend

The Woodend Railway Station is in the heart of Woodend and an easy walk to fantastic cafes, pubs and shops. Enjoy a drink at Holgate Brewhouse Taproom or the Victoria Hotel’s Rock and Wombat Bar before heading home.

Plantation Prowl Gravel Ride

Challenge yourself on this 56km gravel ride through pine plantations that takes you deep into the Wombat State Forest.

Discover our country farmers markets

Choose from six farmers markets across the Macedon Ranges. There’s a different one on each weekend of the month.

Plan a visit to Hanging Rock

Plan a trip to Hanging Rock Reserve. Get information on walks, picnic areas, barbecue facilities, events and more.

The Most Popular Top Tiny Town in Victoria

Find out why Mount Macedon was voted Victoria’s Top Tiny Town Winner for 2022! Check out our Mount Macedon Nature Escape itinerary and plan a visit.

Places to stay

Get inspired for a Macedon Ranges escape with our featured accommodation across nine unique villages.

Six ripper country pies for pastry buffs

From Kyneton to Malmsbury, Lancefield to Woodend – it’s time to embark on a tasty journey down pastry lane. Here are six top spots for pastry buffs to get your happy pie endorphins buzzing.

Discover our Pinot Trail!

Here’s a short and sweet half day Pinot Trail to give you a taste of what to expect (and keep you coming back for more).

Macedon Ranges Ride Guide

Discover 18 road, gravel and mountain bike routes that get you off-the-beaten track. It’s more than just a ride in the Macedon Ranges, it’s an experience.

Check out our events calendar!

Visit a farmers market. Enjoy a festival. Book an art class or theatre performance. There’s so much to see and do in the Macedon Ranges.

Cosy Country Cottage

Kimco Drivers

Woodend Cellar & Bar

600 Above Wine Bar

Islay House Woodend

Journey Through the Ranges – Winery…

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2023

Black Forest Meats

Mountainview Garlic Farm Shop

2023 NATIONAL ENTOMOLOGY INSECT EXPO

Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group

Gindu Distillery

Woodend Community Farmers Market

Hanging Rock Country Cottage

Pig & Whistle Hotel

Cool Climate Tours

Cuttings Lifestyle Woodend

Rambling Wine Tours

Woodend Flower Farm

Spring Hill Nursery Cafe

Bourkies Bakehouse

Life & Fork Catering

Life and Fork Cooking School

Newham General Store

into the woods

A Little Church on Spring Hill

The Schoolhouse Woodend

Oak Tree Cottage Woodend

Woodend Ice Cream Co.

Kerrie Hall

Hanging Rock Views

Mort & Pestle Kitchen Shop

The Norma Richardson Hall

Hunter Gatherer Winery Weddings

The Victoria Hotel Functions

Passing Clouds Winery

Woodend General

Mount Macedon Winery Weddings

Tree Change Woodend

Fellcroft Farmstay

The Dickins Woodend

Barn Woodend

Super Lekker Burgers

The Victoria Hotel, Woodend

Sassy Woodend

Hanging Rock Cafe

Country Style Events

Chanters Ridge

Maison Maloa Licensed Cafe & Gifts

Newham Mechanics Institute Wedding & Event…

Rochford Schoolhouse B&B

Bespoke Wine Tours

Woodend Bookshop

Active Mountain Bike Trail Rides

Five Mile Creek Walk

Woodend Swimming Pool

Hanging Rock Weddings

Australian Natural Treasures Touring

St Mary’s Anglican Church Woodend

Ramai Skin & Body Care

Post Office Farm Nursery

The Retreat At Amryhouse

Woodlands Getaway

Cammeray Waters

Hobreid House

Macedon Ranges Art Trail

The Birches Bed and Breakfast

Flowers In A Vase

Kim Selby Photography

Woodend Children’s Park

Endangered Woodend

Bella The Cut & Colour Salon

Holgate Brewhouse

Hanging Rock Llama Treks

Blackbird Cakes

Zenkai Complete Recovery of Health

Tylden General Store

Springhill Nursery & Garden

Hanging Rock Winery

Northfield Boutique Accommodation

Catch up with us on social media.

Share your story @visitmacedonranges