Daylesford and neighbouring Hepburn Springs have long been known as the beating heart of wellness in Victoria. Just over two hours from Melbourne, this lush, mineral-rich region invites you to slow down, soak up the serenity, and rediscover what it truly means to feel well.
From luxurious thermal bathing to forested nature walks, Daylesford offers more than a getaway- it’s a full mind-body reset. Here’s what makes wellness in Daylesford so special, and why even a 24-hour stay can leave you feeling completely renewed.
Bathe in Healing Waters at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Your wellness journey starts at the iconic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, operating since 1895. Nestled in the Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, the bathhouse invites guests to “take the waters” – a tradition rooted in the town’s rich history and healing mineral springs.
A 90-minute Sanctuary Mineral Bathing session gives you access to magnesium and salt-infused pools, aroma steam rooms, thermal spa couches, and the unique Hepburn Mineral Hammam. These mineral-rich waters, containing magnesium, calcium, silica, and sulphates, are known to aid in:
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Soothing sore muscles and joints
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Relieving stress and anxiety
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Enhancing skin health
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Supporting sleep and overall wellbeing
According to research in the International Journal of Spa and Wellness, balneotherapy (mineral bathing) may even help alleviate symptoms of depression and arthritis.
Stay in Luxury at the New Wellness Villas
Just steps from the bathhouse are the Wellness Villas – thoughtfully designed to extend your experience of rest and rejuvenation. Inside, expect a king-size bed with cloud-like mattress topper, a cozy fireplace, a yoga mat, custom essential oils diffused on arrival, and herbal teas curated for calm.
Wake up to natural light and views of tranquil bushland, then begin your morning with gentle yoga or journaling before heading out to explore. In autumn, the golden foliage adds even more magic to your stay.
“I found that even just a 24 hour stay here made a significant difference to my wellbeing, with the combination of the bathing rituals, massage, the serene space of the Wellness Villa and the peaceful nature surrounds.” KRIS ABBEY
Slow Living Beyond the Spa
While the mineral waters are the heart of Daylesford’s wellness appeal, the region offers so much more to nourish your whole being. Surrounded by rolling hills, forest reserves, and creative, food-loving communities, Daylesford is a haven for slow living. Whether you’re wandering a lakeside trail, sipping herbal tea in a heritage café, or tasting your way through the farmers market, these gentle moments add depth to your wellness experience, reminding you to pause, savour, and simply be.
Reconnect with Nature at Your Own Pace
Daylesford’s natural surroundings invite you to reconnect with the earth and move your body in gentle, restorative ways, whether it’s walking through mineral springs reserves, riding through rolling hills, or simply breathing in the crisp mountain air.
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Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve – Taste from historic mineral pumps and enjoy peaceful walks among towering gums.
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Lake Daylesford – A scenic 30-minute Peace Mile loop walk, with mineral spring tastings and waterside cafés.
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Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens – A picnic-perfect garden on an extinct volcano with sweeping views and heritage plantings.
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Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides – A two-hour horse ride through the countryside, followed by light refreshments.
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Hepburn Golf Club – An 18-hole course with native wildlife (kangaroos included).
Nourish Yourself with Daylesford’s Fresh, Local Flavours
Nourishing your body is easy in Daylesford, where local cafes, markets, and restaurants focus on seasonal produce, mindful eating, and fresh flavours that support your wellness journey from the inside out.
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Harvest Café Daylesford – Organic coffee and nourishing seasonal dishes.
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Daylesford Sunday Market – Meet local growers and sample artisan goods.
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Daylesford Picnic Boxes – Ready-made picnics with local produce, perfect for lakeside dining.
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The Farmers Arms Hotel – A welcoming historic pub serving hearty, locally sourced meals.
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Hotel Bellinzona’s Virgin Kitchen – Dine in peaceful garden surrounds on gourmet dishes like mushroom pappardelle and ricotta gnocchi.
A Self-Cation That Restores You
Whether you stay for one night or a full weekend, a wellness escape to Daylesford offers space to reconnect with yourself. After a day of bathing, massage, fresh food and nature walks, retreating to your private villa (fireplace lit, diffuser misting, journal open) can feel like the deepest exhale.
Even 24 hours of mindful rest can make a difference. As you return home with relaxed muscles, clearer thoughts, and a refreshed spirit, you’ll understand why Daylesford has earned its reputation as Australia’s spa capital. If you’re craving stillness, nature, and mineral-rich healing, this little town in Victoria’s spa country might be just what you need.
Compiled from Kris Abbey’s visits to Daylesford. Follow Kris’s travels HERE.
Discover more wellness travel hotspots HERE.
