Overview
When gold was discovered in Victoria over 150 years ago it left a rich and lasting legacy in almost every town in the Goldfields. Today visitors can tour the majestic Victorian streetscapes of thriving regional cities Bendigo and Ballarat or explore delightful villages such as Maldon, Castlemaine, Heathcote and Dunolly.
Looking back
Discover gold rush history at one of the region's historic attractions. Sovereign Hill and the Central Deborah Gold Mine offer fascinating insights into Victoria's thriving gold rush life during the 1850s and 1860s.
Art near and far
The Goldfields region is an arts and cultural haven boasting outstanding galleries with rich collections of local and European art. Wander through two of Australia's finest regional galleries – the Art Gallery of Ballarat and Bendigo Art Gallery. Explore the eclectic arts scene in Castlemaine, and make time for the Edwardian and modern works at the Castlemaine Art Museum. Seek out smaller private collections, contemporary art galleries and artist studios dotted all over the region.
Regional flavours
Take a break from exploring the Goldfields and sample fabulous local produce at cafes and restaurants across the region. Visit stellar restaurants making use of the region's fine fresh produce and join the locals embracing cafe culture. Sample locally produced wines, olives, apples, cheeses and more, direct from the farm gates and provedores. Get a taste for Heathcote's famous shiraz and new varieties at cellar doors in the Ballarat, Bendigo and Heathcote wine regions.
Great outdoors
Explore the region's outdoors along the 210-kilometre Goldfields Track or wander through one of the many stately gardens in the area, some dating back to the 1860s.
