How to Keep Warm This Winter in the Bendigo Region

Hearty Winter Feasts

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in rich, comforting flavours and the Bendigo Region delivers in abundance. From fragrant curries to warming soups and tender, slow-cooked dishes.

Enjoy an aromatic curry at Malayan Orchid or Bunja Thai, linger over a long lunch at Ms Batterhams’ and their pop-ups (held the last Saturday of each month) at Tellurian Wines, or settle in for an intimate dinner at Alium Dining or Le Foyer. For a truly memorable evening, head to The Woodhouse, where locally sourced meats, smoky flavours and a crackling fireplace create the ultimate winter dining experience. Or for a hearty pub meal, check out The Bridgewater Hotel or Rising Sun Hotel.

Cosy Cellar Doors

If a glass of wine by a crackling fire is calling your name, you’re in the right place. The Bendigo region is home to a beautiful collection of cellar doors where you can settle in and savour a tasting beside a cosy wood or open fireplace.

In Bendigo, visit Sandhurst Ridge and relax by the fire while enjoying sweeping views across the vineyard and native bushland beyond.

Venture out to the Heathcote wine region, where Heathcote Winery invites you to unwind fireside with a wine and platter. At Munari Wines, a rustic cellar door and plush armchairs create the perfect setting for a winter’s day. Silver Spoon Estate offers an off-grid escape with a wood fireplace, velvet seating and a thoughtfully curated winter warmer menu. And at Shiraz Republic, you’ll find a lively mix of wine, craft beer, pizza and live music, with both an indoor fireplace and outdoor fire barrels to keep things toasty. 

Hot Drinks for Cold Days

Café culture shines here in winter, when a great coffee feels even better. From artisan brews to spiced chai and indulgent hot chocolates, you’ll find your perfect cup across the region.

Warm up at Fodder Café in Heathcote, Whitby or Omari in Bendigo, meet passionate baristas at Awaken Coffee, and pick up takeaway beans from Custom Coffees or soothing blends from Tea Associates.

Catch the Yarn Bomb Tram

For a truly unique winter experience, hop aboard the Yarn Bomb Tram. This artfully decorated tram combines warmth, creativity and community spirit, wrapping you in woolly wonder as you take a ride through the city. It is charming, quirky and completely one of a kind. 

Winter Calendar of Events

Winter brings a calendar full of magic to the region. From live performances and exhibitions to festivals and cosy music sessions, there’s something to enjoy both indoors and out. Be sure to check what’s on during your visit and soak up the vibrant energy of winter in the Bendigo Region.

Snug Stays

What better way to finish the end of the day then snuggling up to a fire on a cold winter's night. Our favourites include...

The Yellow Box Wood: glamping in eco-luxury tents amongst the bush.
The Cottage at The Fallows Heathcote: a cosy self-contained cottage in the heart of Heathcote.
Hotel Ernest: for luxury in a heritage gold rush building in the heart of Bendigo.
Number 12: a charming Victorian cottage in the heart of Bendigo.