Have a perfect weekend away in the Macedon Ranges

Fancy a weekend getaway? With boutique wineries, stunning scenery and antique markets, the Macedon Ranges — an hour north of Melbourne — is the perfect place to unwind. Here’s a list of the best places to visit while you’re there.

The majestic and mysterious Hanging Rock, Macedon Ranges.

Looking to escape Melbourne for the weekend? With antique markets, beautiful gardens and a boutique food and wine scene, the Macedon Ranges might just be the spot for you.

Here are some of the region’s hidden gems that are just a short car trip away.

HOLGATE BREWHOUSE, WOODEND

This award-winning historic hotel, pub and microbrewery, started by Paul and Tash Holgate, has been a staple of the Woodend scene since 1999.

Stop by for a meal, enjoy some live music on a Friday night and if you’ve overindulged a little too much, spend the night in a historic hotel.

Where? 79 High St, Woodend

Holgate Brewhouse in Woodend. Picture: Kim Selby

TRENTHAM FALLS, TRENTHAM

Surrounded by stunning bushland, Trentham Falls is one of the longest single-drop waterfalls in Victoria.

A viewing area provides a gorgeous view of the falls in Coliban River Scenic Reserve, so pack a picnic basket and enjoy the sights.

The waterfall can be accessed through Trentham.

Where? Trentham Falls Rd

COUNTRY COB BAKERY, KYNETON

This Kyneton bakery has a legitimate claim to Australia’s best pie, having taken out the title for two years running.

Country Cob’s caramelised pork and pepper pie beat out 1700 entrants at the 2019 Australia’s Best Pie and Pastie Competition.

Country Cob Bakery in Kyneton has a strong claim to the nation’s best pie.

Brothers Chans and Ryan Khun cleaned up 12 other gold medals in the same year, so the menu is well worth the drive.

Where? 130-132 Mollison St, Kyneton

OLDE TIME MARKET, GISBORNE

Spend a perfect Sunday in the country at the Gisborne Olde Time Market.

Pick up some local produce, explore a range of quality handmade goods or eat your fill from the site’s delicious food stalls on the first Sunday of every month.

You can also grab a coffee at one of the many local cafes.

Where? Village Green, Aitken St, Gisborne

Mount Towrong Vineyard, Mount Macedon.

MOUNT TOWRONG VINEYARD, MOUNT MACEDON

Experience true country hospitality at the family owned and operated Mount Towrong Vineyard.

The Cremascos brought their love of food and wine from Italy’s Veneto Region.

The Cellar Door is open 10am to 5pm, Saturdays and Sundays.

Where? 4 Taylors Rd, Mount Macedon

SOCIAL FOUNDRY, KYNETON

This family-friendly cafe mentors unemployed young people and giving them valuable hospitality experience, all while serving delicious local food. You can try everything from Belgian waffles to homemade burgers, or build your own brekkie.

Where? 86 Mollison St, Kyneton

Forest Glade Gardens in Mount Macedon is almost 100 years old.

FOREST GLADE GARDENS, MOUNT MACEDON

The stunning gardens hidden behind Mount Macedon’s main road are often regarded as one of the most beautiful in Australia.

At almost 100 years old, Forest Glade draws inspiration from English, Japanese, Italian and woodland traditions.

Bring a picnic blanket, enjoy the spring and explore the 6ha reserve.

Where? 816 Mount Macedon Rd, Mount Macedon

CLEVELAND WINERY, LANCEFIELD

Every dog can have its day at Cleveland Winery, with the launch of Pizza and Pooches Sundays.

Dogs will be welcome at the winery every Sunday until December 1, while owners can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and local wine at the Carriage House restaurant.

Where? 55 Shannons Rd, Lancefield

Shane Paru and Bronte Ingleton with Jack at Cleveland Winery. Picture: Rob Leeson

SAND ART GALLERY, RIDDELLS CREEK (AND DROMKEEN)

Get lost in the magic of the Sand Art Gallery on the grounds of the Dromkeen Homestead, reopening next month.

A dozen of the world’s best sculptures have transformed 350,000kg of sand into an enchanted adventure forest.

Rosie Gallicchio at the Sand Art Gallery. Picture: Rob Leeson

While you’re there, visit the tea rooms and explore the beauty of the historic Dromkeen Homstead.

Built in 1889, the house was once home to judge Arthur Chomley and the famous Dromkeen picture book collection.

Where? 1012 Kilmore Rd, Riddells Creek

HANGING ROCK

Retrace the step’s of one of Australia’s greatest mysteries at the iconic Hanging Rock, immortalised in the Joan Lindsay’s 1967 novel and Peter Weir’s 1975 film.

Picnic at Hanging Rock. Picture: Nicole Cleary

Pack a picnic (if you dare), take in the beautiful sights or check out the unique local offerings at the next craft market on Saturday, October 26.

Where? 139 S Rock Rd, Woodend