victorian goldfields

Deciding on the best place to take a road trip has a couple of factors come into play. Some people like a road trip for the destination and others like to a road trip for what’s along the way too. If you’re new to taking road trips then a great way to start might be to head out on one that has great things to see along the way.

This way you have something to keep you interested as you go along and make a few stops making it easy to fall in love with the fun and excitement of a road trip. To make the most out of your trip and to avoid excessive wear and tear on your car, we recommend taking advantage of our rental car services.

More than just gold

Victoria’s Goldfields stretches across the towns Castlemaine, Clunes, Talbot, Bendigo and Ballarat. This is where the first discovery of gold was made so the history certainly is rich. However, there is so much more to offer on this trip than just learning about gold discovery back in the day.

If you have an interest in antiques, books, gardening, galleries, architecture, cafes, boutiques and artisan producers on top of history then this road trip is going to be a feast for every one of your senses. The Victorian Goldfields is quite easily one of the most fascinating places on offer in Australia.

If your interest is sparked then here is a list of some of the more popular places to stop at although there are plenty more spots you can stop at and find your own favourite if you wish.

Tram tour
In Bendigo you can take a tour on a tram. This ride casually takes you along residential streets and visits spots like the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Lake Weeroona and Joss House Temple. The main street of Bendigo is also a well known tourist spot with plenty to explore.

Eating in Bendigo
If you’re a foodie then Masons of Bendigo is going to be a real treat. Masons use local wine and local produce that are second to none to create their amazing meals and team this with friendly staff in a casual fine dining experience. A restaurant not to be missed.

Get creative with pottery
The oldest working pottery house in Australia is Bendigo Pottery which was established in 1858. There is a gallery that showcases the work of local sculptures and artists as well as an interpretive museum that covers the history of pottery.

If you like to get a bit creative you will enjoy The Hands on Clay Experience. Here you get to have a go at working the clay on the wheel yourself and learn to make something. Once you’re finished it will be glazed for you to keep as a reminder of the day.

There is also an antique centre and other galleries as well as a café to replenish you. At Bendigo Pottery you will be immersed in history, art and culture. A day not to be forgotten.

Going country in Clunes
If you long for a slow, quiet day in a true country town then stop in Clunes. There are plenty of cafes to take a pit stop and many bookstores. It’s the perfect place to find some quiet time.

Creswick Woollen Mills
Even if knitting isn’t your thing it’s incredibly interesting to see the process of Alpaca fibres being taken and turned into wool. There is a fully interactive tour called ‘A Very Fine Yarn’ where you get to witness a process that has been used for 50 years. The Creswick Woollen Mills is the last coloured spinning mill in operation in Australia.

Mill Markets
The mill markets are a place you could get lost in for hours. In these corridors you will find a mix of collectables and antiques and more. You could easily spend all day and all your money here so if you go it’s a good idea to set a limit on time and spending.

Some other great spots to visit include Buda Historic Home and Garden located in Castlemaine, Learmonth has the 321 cider farm and café and there is also a café that makes amazing coffee from a combi van called the Café Cortille. Lydiard Street in Ballarat offers the sights of some beautiful grand buildings that are heritage listed.

If these ideas don’t sound enough to you then you can easily find out more about the area by searching online for your own kind of places to visit and create a loose itinerary for your road trip. Alpha Car Hire will have you covered for your car rental’s needs and you only need to organise the rest.

If you would like to check out some of the car hire specials currently available and make an enquiry, click on the link and then navigate your way around the site https://www.alphacarhire.com.au/car-rental-specials.