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Planning your summer escapes? Us too. And if you want to extend your list beyond Victoria’s coastal towns, we’re here to help. Around 120 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, Castlemaine is a charming historic gold rush town that’s well worth exploring this summer – all old-world buildings and v good cafés. Keen? Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Where is Castlemaine?
Sitting between Bendigo and Daylesford, it's part of the Goldfields region and makes for an easy regional escape from the city. You can get there in around 90 minutes by car, or jump on a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station.
What is Castlemaine like?
It’s like stepping back in time: all heritage shopfronts, grand old buildings, creative locals, independent businesses and a surprisingly good food and coffee scene. Castlemaine has held onto plenty of its gold rush-era charm, but there's a contemporary edge to the town, too, thanks to its thriving arts community, vintage stores, galleries and independent makers.
It's the kind of place where you can spend the morning browsing antique shops, settle in for a long lunch, catch an independent film and finish the afternoon with a locally made wine or beer. It's also a great base for exploring the surrounding Goldfields countryside.
Where should I eat in Castlemaine?
Castlemaine punches well above its weight when it comes to food, with a mix of European-inspired coffee shops, artisan bakeries, gorgeous seasonal restaurants and delightful old-school pubs. Start the day with a Viennese-style coffee at Coffee Basics Das Kaffeehaus, tucked inside The Mill, or pick up a French-inspired pastry from Johnny Baker Downtown. Gornelly’s is a lovely spot for a slow lunch or a glass of wine, and Bar Midland, inside the historic Midland Hotel, is worth booking for a v good dinner. For something more casual, head to Shedshaker Brewing Company at The Mill for craft beer and a bite to eat. And with the wider region part of a UNESCO-recognised gastronomic area, there's a whole lot more to discover beyond the town centre.
What is there to do in Castlemaine?
There's a whole lot to keep you busy beyond the cafés – from vintage shopping to bushwalks. Browse the independent shops, galleries and (enormous) Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar at The Mill, catch a film or live performance at the historic Theatre Royal, or explore the collections at Castlemaine Art Museum. For a history hit, wander through the leafy Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, visit the beautifully preserved Buda Historic Home and Garden, or hop aboard the Victorian Goldfields Railway for a nostalgic trip to nearby Maldon. If you'd rather get out into nature, explore the walking trails and old gold-mining relics of Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, or head up Mount Alexander for a bushwalk and sweeping views across the region.
How do I get to Castlemaine?
Castlemaine is around 120 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, making it a pretty easy regional getaway whether you're travelling by car or public transport.
If you're driving, the journey takes about 90 minutes via the Calder Freeway and Calder Highway. There's also a direct V/Line train from Southern Cross Station on the Bendigo line, with the trip taking around 90 minutes.
Once you arrive, the town centre is walkable, and The Mill and botanical gardens are within easy walking distance of the station – so it's worth jumping on the train if you're keen for a few drinks in town, just make sure to check the timetable before you head.