Bendigo is a vibrant contemporary regional centre, boasting beautiful streets created from one of the world’s greatest gold rushes. Every visit will reveal new surprises and experiences.
Castlemaine boasts a remarkable community of artists, writers, actors and designers, who offer a host of galleries, theatres, festivals, bookshops and boutiques. It’s a theme that runs through nearby Maldon, Newstead and Harcourt.
Rich in history and opportunity... today’s visitors come to Maryborough and the surrounding villages for many reasons. Many come to wander through the lovely box-ironbark forests with their wildflowers, birds and superb display of Wattle in the spring. Others come to research family history and discover a connection to the Victorian gold rush, or to visit nearby wineries or explore markets, galleries and museums.
Take a deep breath… and travel along the meandering roads of the Loddon Valley. They start at untouched historic villages, weave their way up to spectacular views on granite strewn hilltops, through ancient forests, and then alongside wide flowing rivers and vast wetlands.
One of Australia's oldest and largest regional galleries presenting innovative exhibitions alongside a dynamic and varied suite of public programs and events. Our collection is extensive, with an emphasis on 19th century European art and Australian art from the 1800's, alongside a strong collection of contemporary Australian art.
Bendigo Venues and Events nurtures, develops, presents and celebrates performing arts and culture for Bendigo and central Victorian communities.
Whether you’re a lover or a hater of the cool change that’s set in for winter, we’ve put together a list of our favourite ways to enjoy the winter chill in Bendigo. So, if you ever needed an excuse to leave the house, put on your winter woollies and join your friends – this is it! Here’s our favourite things see and do this winter in Bendigo…
We love our coffee here in Bendigo. You’ll find dedicated coffee houses, cafes, roasters, and passionate baristas throughout the city. From laneway hangouts, window coffees, urban cafes and wholesome spaces that are family friendly to cosy and heartfelt – you’ll discover an awesome coffee culture. And if you’re a lover of coffee beans to go, our friends at Custom Coffees and Old Green Bean are roasting their own beans fresh and ready to go.
Is there anything nicer than rugging up the layers and getting your winter woollies on? Better yet, we have an amazing range of retailers with the most gorgeous winter apparel you’ll ever need.
For top Australian fashion labels hit up Robe in Chancery Lane, or for all-natural fibres 5ifty boutique studio off Bath Lane. For boutique buys and women’s fashion we’re loving Made in Common and Queenie & The Princess. Shop all your modern trends at Folly & Jane, Rob’s Jeanery, The Meadow and Two Birds Blue. For accessories visit Bendigo Hat Shop to keep your head warm! And all your big brand retailers can be found at Bendigo Marketplace.
Or if you want to meet the makers, growers and designers of beautiful woollen garments and accessories, get along to the Australian Sheep and Wool Show from 16 - 18 July at the Bendigo Showgrounds. You can make your way around the markets, watch the fashion parade or meet the 'Women of Wool'.
Winter and open fireplaces go hand-in-hand. And we’ve got some great choices and experiences to choose from. If a glass of red and open fire is your thing be sure to visit Killiecrankie Wines for a beautiful cellar door experience or The Wine Bank in the heart of the arts precinct.
Looking for those cosy pub feels with character and great food? Check out The Boundary Hotel or Rifle Brigade Hotel. The Woodhouse says it all with the picture-perfect fireplace and wood-fired pizzas and steaks.
Or if you’re looking for cosy stay with all the feels, book yourself a night or two at Bishopscourt B&B.
Bendigo’s outdoors is beautiful, green and lush throughout winter. Breathing in the crisp air and exploring Bendigo’s parks, gardens and waterways is not only refreshing but it brings your whole body to life and a great way to warm your body up, clear your mind and take a little time out. Our top local picks are Lake Weeroona and watching the fog and winter chill lift off the lake, a stroll through Rosalind Park and Bendigo Botanic Gardens.
Want to learn more about our beautiful parks and gardens and their history? Join a Bendigo Walking Tour to find out more.
mmm…you can’t argue with a yummy hot chocolate and fluffy marshmallows on a cold winter’s day. And they don’t get any better than those from Indulge Fine Belgian Chocolates. We’re talking the best in Belgian chocolate – milk, dark and white chocolate on offer. If that’s not enough you can order yourself a chocolate shot! Oh yes, an espresso cup of chocolaty goodness. Still want more? You can choose from their specialty options including a hit of chilli, cinnamon, salted caramel, coconut, cherry, mocha or mint - yes please!
Bendigo and the Heathcote region are one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, with over 50 cellar doors to stop in and visit, are most well known for their reds. What makes our wineries a top winter experience is their boutique cellar doors, open fireplaces, beautiful range of hearty and light wines, live music, great food, views and even accommodation on site.
Top picks for an open fire and art include Killiecrankie Wines and Heathcote Winery, scenic views at Peregrine Ridge and Sutton Grange Winery, intimate family cellar door experience at Vinea Marson and relaxed vibes and fire barrels at Shiraz Republic.
We all need a little R&R and there are plenty of options that will brighten your day in Bendigo no matter what time of the year. Our favourite pampering options are sure to leave you feeling fresh and revitalised. If you’re chasing a makeover, freshen up or have a special occasion see the team at Hairfolk and Jools for Jim. If a facial, massage or treatment is more your thing visit Endota Spa Bendigo. Or if you’re looking for something new, try Flow Floatation & Sensory Retreat, for float therapy and sensory immersive experience.
Hearty food is good for the soul and guaranteed to warm you up on the coldest of winter days. If you’re chasing a cosy setting and a bowl of delicious pasta, look no further than Borchelli Ristorante on View Street. Nothing says winter like a hearty soup. One of our favs has to be the homemade wholesome goodness and side of sourdough from The Good Loaf. Or grab yourself an aromatic coconut curry from Malayan Orchid – yum!
And if that's not enough, check out Bendigo's latest foodie experience at Slow Smokin' Saturdays @ Lyttle Eat Street. All your favourite foodie traders along Lyttleton Terrace come out onto the streets every Saturday from 10am - 2pm throughout winter to bring you delicious slow-cooked and smoky dishes. Think BBQ's, Asian street food, winter warmers and hearty dishes - yes please!
Winter + Bendigo = a transformation to Ignite your senses, spirit and imagination.
If you're looking for an awesome calendar of events and experiences throughout the Bendigo region during winter, this is where you'll find it. We've got a great range of showcase events, cooking classes, opportunities to meet the maker, enjoy live music, food and wine experiences, masterclasses, high teas, and so much more. Grab your friends and family and enjoy!
For more info on Ignite events and experiences, click here.The City of Greater Bendigo acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Peoples as the traditional custodians of the lands across Bendigo.
We acknowledge and pay respect to their Elders past present and emerging.
