Redesdale

A small community on the Kyneton Road first visited by Major Mitchell in 1836, where he crossed the Campaspe River about 3kms from the present Iron Bridge. Stay at nearby Killara Farm Getaway; visit Coliban Valley (open weekends) and Redesdale Estate (ring for directions); try the variety of products at Kyneton Olive Oil; experience the fine food and regional wines at the historic Redesdale Tavern!!

Tooborac

Just 15 kms south of Heathcote - a good place to experience the fine wines at the excellent cellar door of Shelmerdine Vineyard (open 7 days - also has fine café style food) and, McIvor Estate. Wander through Tooborac Birdbaths on the Northern Highway to view the wide range of statues, birdbaths, etc. Enjoy a break and have a meal at the Tooborac Hotel.

Toolleen

23 kms north of Heathcote along the Northern Highway - many wineries in the area include: Mt. Burrumboot Estate (open weekends/weekdays appointment), St. Michael’s Vineyard (ring for directions) and Lake Cooper Estate (open weekends and public holidays). Enjoy the hospitality of the friendly hosts at popular Moss Valley Deer Park; check out the food at the Toolleen Pub!!

Elmore

If you are heading north to Echuca and beyond, stay awhile at Gilgai on Campaspe.

Costerfield and Graytown

These two old gold mining towns offer a wealth of history but, alas, very little remains of their glory days. A drive along the road to Nagambie will take the visitor/ traveller through the settlements. At Graytown, the Heathcote-Graytown National Park is accessed at Mt. Black and Melville’s Lookout; also remnants of World War Two Internment Camps are evident.

Bendigo

A city of bold statements, and this Central Victorian hot-spot lives up to every one of them. The showpiece of Victoria and once the richest city in the world, Bendigo is now Australia’s most beautiful regional centre… It’s bold, but it’s true. Whether it’s a family holiday, romantic get-away or short break with friends, head to beautiful Bendigo, where you’ll experience something truly special. Within minutes you’ll discover Bendigo’s secret; this old gold rush town is more than a destination, it’s an experience.

Everything about this old gold town is unique, even the way in which gold was first discovered…by two women. In 1851 Mrs Kennedy and Mrs Farrell stumbled across the precious metal while washing in a Bendigo creek. Gold fever was borne and thousands came to seek their fortune. By the 1880’s Bendigo was proclaimed the richest goldfield in the world.

This wealth produced grand public buildings, miners’ cottages, federation homes and grand manors. Some of these buildings are now home to Bendigo’s best boutique hotels and offer everything from four-poster beds and personal massages to croquet on the lawn and high tea.

Bendigo’s mild climate makes alfresco dining a popular past time for locals and visitors alike. Kick back at a trendy new café or award-winning restaurant. The local produce is typically Mediterranean: fresh, simple and abundant.

Be sure to take a drive through the rolling hills and granite outcrops surrounding the city to visit some of the regions’ many wineries. Meet the winemakers and discover why Central Victorian Shiraz is regarded one of Australia’s best.

To find out more contact the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre on 1800 813 153 or visit www.bendigotourism.com.

Comet Tours and Charters Comet Tours & Charters is a family run business established in the Heathcote area. Owner driver Bob Pumpa is an accredited Tour and Charter Operator and has over 35 years experience in the coach and leisure travel industry. See More Information

Central Wine Tours Full and half day winery tours of the Heathcote region. Taste the wines that have built our regions reputation. Chat with our artisan winemakers and share their passion. See More Information

Heathcote Taxi Service Heathcote Taxis offer 7 days a week service. Cabs and Taxibus seating 11. Weekend wine tasting tours, including lunch. Bookings essential. A return Taxi Service between Bendigo and Heathcote is offered twice every week day (except in January & Public Holidays) See More Information

Lansell Tours Lansell Tours operate from Heathcote day trips, clubs, craft markets, wine tours local area. 21 pass aircon bus. Over night trips to Melbourne. Live shows. Available anytime See More Information

RACV RACV services. See More Information