Here’s how to plan the perfect winter holiday in Daylesford, Victoria.

This year’s season of The Block is convincing people across Australia to plan a trip to Daylesford, Victoria. Photos: Channel 9 / Getty

If you hadn’t heard of it before, this year’s season of The Block is convincing people across Australia to start planning a trip to Daylesford. The country Victorian town, located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, is the setting for the milestone twenty-first season of the Channel 9 reality show, with contestants building five brand new houses from scratch.

In addition to the renovation content, the series has showcased Daylesford’s stunning scenery, friendly hospitality, and close-knit community. This was all especially present in the first episode when contestants participated in the annual ChillOut Festival, Australia’s largest and longest-running regional LGBTQIA+ pride event.

The Block teams participated in the annual ChillOut Festival, Australia’s largest and longest-running regional LGBTQIA+ pride event. Photos: Channel 9

The ‘perfect’ tourist destination

Buxton Ballarat director Mark Nunn, who is the listing agent for House 3’s Britt and Taz, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that he’s thrilled The Block has put a spotlight on Daylesford as it is the “perfect” tourist destination.

“It’s got so much to offer from a weekend point of view. Restaurants are really high quality, the accommodation’s really high quality, you’ve got lots of massage and mineral spas that are available, there are amazing wineries around the place, and it’s quite a visually pretty place when you go through,” he details.

“It’s also close to the city, so it’s not hard to get to. You can duck up on a Friday afternoon or a Friday night, have a really nice weekend, and then get back Sunday night without having to take a flight or a long drive. So accessibility is a great thing.”

If The Block has inspired you to plan a weekend away to Daylesford, here are a few things you can add to your itinerary that blend relaxation, culture, nature, and gourmet delights.

Daylesford is known as the Spa Centre of Australia. Photos: Getty

Things to do in Daylesford

While it was first established in 1852 as a gold mining town, Daylesford is also known as the Spa Centre of Australia and the location of over 80 per cent of Australia’s effervescent mineral water reserve.

There are several natural spring mineral spas where you can relax in Daylesford, including The Mineral Spa or Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, where you can choose between the traditional Bathhouse or the tranquil Sanctuary. Daylesford Day Spa is a boutique venue that also offers facials, body treatments, and a range of massages.

If you’re keen to do some shopping in the area, Vincent Street is the place to go. You can hunt for antiques and quirky collectibles at Brick Lane Bazaar, Curious Antiques, and Artedeco, and find some new art pieces at Bromley & Co Art Gallery. The Mill Markets, which have locations in both Daylesford and Geelong, are also a must-visit if you love shopping for vintage clothing and knick-knacks.

Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and Lake Daylesford are both idyllic spots for a picnic or walk in nature, and you can drive to The Blowhole, Sailors Falls, or Loddon Falls nearby if you’re up for more of an adventure.

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Where to eat in Daylesford

One popular eatery is Cliffy’s Emporium, where you can grab a coffee and enjoy the breakfast menu showcasing local produce. The rustic timber and corrugated iron building that has been lovingly preserved from when it was a general store in the 1950s, and farmers still drop in with fresh fruit and vegetables.

Other hotspots include Winespeake Cellar + Deli, Bistro Terroir, and Sault Restaurant, where guests can access their lavender and sunflower gardens.

The Farmers Arms Hotel is also an old-style pub that offers the finest local produce that Daylesford has to offer, and The Daylesford Hot Chocolate Co is another favourite in winter.

This year’s season of The Block is expected to run through to October, with many more Daylesford locations and historic institutions set to be on full display.