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.
Proin et lectus consequat, auctor lectus eget, faucibus nisi. Nam ultricies interdum neque nec faucibus. Sed tincidunt porta ante, ut sagittis neque dignissim et.
Visit Region Loddon
Valley
02 day(s)
Embrace the crisp air and quiet beauty of Central and Northern Loddon Shire with a winter nature escape that blends history, culture and the great outdoors.
From gold prospecting in Wedderburn’s historic bushlands to hiking rugged granite peaks and exploring rich Aboriginal heritage in Boort, this two-day journey invites you to slow down and connect with the land. With hearty country meals, vibrant local art and peaceful national parks along the way, it’s the perfect seasonal getaway for nature lovers, curious explorers and anyone in need of a refreshing rural retreat.
Start your morning with a step back in time and try your luck at gold prospecting. With a valid Miner’s Right (available online), you can fossick in public forest areas – just follow all guidelines and remember to leave no trace.
Even if you don’t strike it rich, the quiet bushland, crisp winter air and scent of eucalyptus make for a peaceful and rewarding start to your journey.
Gold Nugget Hunters Tours: whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned prospector, Shane from Gold Nugget Hunters will help you build skills, find the best spots and maybe even strike it lucky.
Refuel with a hearty lunch and great coffee at 24 Karat Café, a cosy local favourite and the perfect stop after a morning of gold fossicking. With its name and décor giving a little nod to gold detecting, this welcoming spot serves up warming dishes, freshly made sweets and genuine small-town hospitality.
After lunch, wander the town to view Wedderburn’s stunning Birds Eye View murals. Five large-scale paintings celebrating the 180+ bird species that thrive where four unique ecosystems converge.
This self-guided art trail is a vibrant tribute to the region’s environmental richness and community spirit.
Drive north to Boort and begin your cultural and nature-rich experience at the Yung Balug Aboriginal Artefacts Museum. Discover tools, artworks and artefacts that reflect thousands of years of Indigenous connection to Country.
End the day at the Railway Hotel, with a hearty country meal at this welcoming local pub, known for generous serves, warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere.
With great places to stay across the region, here are just a couple to get you started:
Boort Lakes Holiday Park - by the water, great for families and nature lovers.
NAB&B Luxury Self Contained Accommodation - a stylish, comfortable option for couples or solo travellers.
Start your morning with a coffee and a nourishing breakfast at Godfrey & Bear, a favourite local cafe offering seasonal, locally inspired meals in a friendly setting.
Next, head toward Pyramid Hill and stop at Mount Hope, a rugged granite peak ideal for a morning hike. The climb rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding plains and unique rock formations.
Drop into this local gem for a casual lunch. Great pies, sandwiches and sweets to refuel before your final nature stops.
Or maybe even grab a takeaway and tackle the rugged climb up Pyramid Hill, enjoying the views as you tuck in at the top.
Spend your afternoon and the end of your trip walking the trails of this important conservation reserve. Known for its grassy woodlands and rare flora and fauna, it’s a peaceful spot for birdwatching, walking and unwinding.
Loddon Shire Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land comprising the Loddon Shire Council area.
The Council would like to pay respect to their Elders both past and present.
