02 day(s)
As the cool autumn weather starts to set in, soak up nature, discover the rich history of our towns, explore hidden gems and unwind for two days in the Loddon Valley—this two day itinerary featuring walks, historical sites, accommodation and places to eat while visiting. The Loddon Valley is about a two hour drive from Melbourne, so spending the night or two would be our recommendation.
Day : Central Loddon Valley
Hit the road, escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and spend a day or two in the beautiful Loddon Valley.
Located two hours from Melbourne, the Loddon valley is the perfect weekend escape destination. This two day itinerary will take you to the heart of the Loddon Valley to towns - Bridgewater on Loddon, located on the stunning and captivating Loddon River and Inglewood, funded on gold, is a mecca for all things vintage and collectable.
Stop : Bridgewater Bakehouse
A visit to the award winning Bridgewater Bakehouse, known for its delicious vanilla slice, this bakery is an excellent stop for a baked treat and coffee. Enjoy undercover at the bakery or take a short walk down to the foreshore, sit on the picnic tables, and enjoy a view of nature while sipping your coffee.
Stop : Retail therapy
Wonder through the artisan shops, Bridgewater Nursery, Secret Platypus, Bridgewater Farmhouse Kitchen and Arts Of Olde. Finish off your retail therapy with a visit to Water Wheel Winery for a tasting and some quality wine to take home.
If the weather is nice, we recommend purchasing a picnic hamper from Bridgewater Farmhouse Kitchen to enjoy on the banks of the river.
Stop : Check into your accommodation
After an afternoon of driving and perusing the shops,Check into your accommodation.
In Bridgewater on Loddon, we have various accommodation options suitable for couples, families or larger groups. See our recommendations below or visit our full list of accommodation across the Loddon Valley here.
Stop : Dinner at the Bridgewater Hotel
Time for dinner.
In Bridgewater on Loddon, enjoy a meal at the iconic and stunning Bridgewater Hotel on the banks of the Loddon River. This Art Deco Pub has a beautiful indoor dining space, a classic bar and function space and an incredible beer garden with river views.
The menu at the hotel is seasonal, showcasing local produce from the Loddon region and surrounds.
Day : Inglewood
Start your morning with a stroll along the banks of the river and take in the beautiful river with a coffee in hand!
Once you have had breakfast and checked out of your accommodation, it's on to Inglewood via the incredible Kooyoora State Park before lunch and an afternoon of discovering this fascinating town - from its Eucalyptus Oil distillery, historic streets, and antiques and collectables shops.
Stop : Kooyoora State Park
A stunning part of the Loddon Valley is the Kooyoora State Park.
Popular activities for locals and visitors include exploring the Melville Caves, lookouts, walking track and camping at the unique Melville Caves camping area. For the more adventurous, a hike along the Southern Lookout Walking Track and for those looking for a longer walk, the Eastern Circuit are our recommendations. If you're interested in birdlife and wildflowers, Kooyoora State Park has many rare and vulnerable plants, such as native orchids.
Stop : Antiques and Collectables in Inglewood
The town's vintage, antiques and collectables stores that line the historic Brooke Street are a must visit. Make sure you pop into Sharps Bazaar, Inglewood Emporium, Fusspots and the other vintage stores, as each store is a destination unto itself. There is something for everyone with old vinyl records, books, vintage clothing, tins, fine china and décor items aplenty!
If you love all things history - particularly old buildings, you may also like to follow the Blue Plaque trail, with some of the beautiful old buildings being these antiques and collectable stores dating back to the 1800s.
Stop : Lunch at Cafe 3517
Dine in or takeaway at Cafe 3517 with a fantastic range of toasties, croissants, cakes, slices and ice cream. This cafe also has excellent Barista made coffee and various other hot and cold drinks.
If you're visiting the area on a Sunday, check the cafe's Facebook page for any events, such as their popular Sunday Sessions, held once a month in their gorgeous beer garden facing the Inglewood Town Hall.
Stop : Inglewood Eucalyptus Distillery Museum
Located in Inglewood, this museum tells the rich story of eucalyptus in Inglewood and how eucalyptus oil is distilled from the local Mallee leaves. View the historical displays, watch a live demonstration or tour the historic Old Jones' Distillery. Afterwards, enjoy a barista made coffee with delicious Australian native shortbreads, and shop in the gift shop featuring eucalyptus products such as liquid soaps, reed diffusers, bath salts and bar soaps.
Stop : Inglewood Motel and Caravan Park
Situated on a 10 acre bush block, within walking distance to cafes, shops and hotel entertainment, surrounded by State Inglewood. The caravan park includes eight country-style motel rooms, caravan sites and powered sites. In the evening, go for a stroll at the Inglewood Reservoir Track, located behind the Inglewood Motel and Caravan Park - the perfect way to experience the unique and beautiful landscape surrounding Inglewood.
Stop : Dinner at Empire State Hotel
In Inglewood, enjoy the country atmosphere of a country style pub at Steve's Empire State Hotel. Here you'll find hearty pub meals, a range of local wines, and friendly locals up for a yarn.
If you prefer takeaway and a picnic in the park, we recommend Inglewood Takeaway - offering burgers, fish & chips, and pizza.
Stop : Optional
If you have time or an extra day to travel around our region - a visit to Wedderburn is a must. Just a 20-minute drive from Inglewood, you will find the incredible Wedderburn Birds Eye View Murals, Coach House and Museum, and the Loddon Visitor Information Centre - Located in the old Wedderburn school house, to name a few things to do.
Click here for things to do and see in Wedderburn.
