Bendigo’s streetscapes and impressive architecture mark the rich historical legacy of the 1880s gold rush.
Located a mere two hours away in the north west of Melbourne’s city centre by car, Bendigo today is the vibrant arts town with a blend of sidewalk cafes, art galleries, antique stores.
Eat
Set in the heart of Bendigo’s CBD, the hatted Masons of Bendigo is a modern, sophisticated restaurant that captures the essence of central Victorian produce. The menu comprises of plates to share that based off the seasons offerings.
Add: 25 Queen Street, Bendigo, Victoria, 3550
Tel: (03) 5443 3877
Housed in the National Bank; a heritage structure established around in1863, Rocks on Rosalind seeks to lure the casual fine diner. Don’t be surprised at the sight of a bullet hole in the front window from an old robbery incident while seated in its stone clad vaults.
Add: 10/12 View Street, Bendigo, Victoria, 3550
Tel: (03) 5441 2222
Stay
Quest Schaller Hotel
Named after one of Australia’s most iconic artists, Mark Schaller, this hotel is a creative hub with a variety of artsy programmes ranging from classes, tours, and a supply of art materials available for guests. Guests can also immerse themselves in Mark Schaller’s inspired rooms whilst enjoying the perks of an onsite café and gym.
Add: 60 Lucan St, Bendigo VIC 3550, Australia
Tel: +61 34433 6100
Nestled among the vineyards is Bendigo’s oldest winery, Balgownie Estate Winery, Retreat and Restaurant. With a variety of contemporary homestead accommodation and luxury glamping, guests can indulge in a retreat which suits them most.
Add: 46 Hermitage Road, Maiden Gully, Victoria, 3551
Tel: (03) 5449 6222
Play
The Bendigo Art Gallery houses an impressive and permanent art collection, and is well known for hosting major international collections. The gallery, in partnership with London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, once paid homage to fashion icon Cristóbal Balenciaga, his protégées and contemporary designers.
Add: 42 View Street, Bendigo, Victoria, 3550
Tel: (03) 5434 6088
Wine Tasting
Home to over 80 wineries in the Bendigo and Heathcote wine region, this is the perfect opportunity to visit some of the family-run cellar doors. Enjoy a leisurely time in scenic, boutique wineries like LynneVale Estate, Tellurian Wines, Sandhurst Ridge Winery or Mandurang Valley Wines.
What’s a better way to explore a region and discover its hidden gems than with a local tour? Across a five-hour period, visitors will enjoy sample dishes from different restaurants and cafes. Along the way, visitors will also be given a historical glimpse of Bendigo’s laneways and sites.
Bendigo Visitor Information Centre
Add: 51-67 Pall Mall, Bendigo, Victoria, 3550