Embarking on a road trip through Victoria’s Goldfields is an extraordinary experience that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With Car Rental Victoria, you can explore this fascinating region at your own pace and make the most of your journey in 2023. In this guide, we’ll take you through the highlights of this perfect road trip from Castlemaine to Ballarat and everything in between.
What to Expect?
Victoria’s Goldfields, stretching across the towns of Castlemaine, Clunes, Talbot, Bendigo, and Ballarat, offer a rich historical experience, as well as opportunities to explore antiques, books, gardening, galleries, architecture, cafes, boutiques, and artisan producers. A cheap car rental lets you create your itinerary and fully immerse yourself in the region’s unique charm.
Highlights of the Road Trip
- Castlemaine: Start your journey in the charming town of Castlemaine, known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful historic buildings. Visit the Buda Historic Home and Garden, a stunning 19th-century mansion showcasing the life of a prosperous gold-rush-era family. Don’t miss the Castlemaine Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Australian art and historical artifacts.
- Tram tour in Bendigo: Hop on a vintage talking tram and explore the city of Bendigo. The tour takes you through residential streets and visits spots like the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Lake Weeroona, and Joss House Temple. The main street of Bendigo is also a well-known tourist spot with plenty to explore, including the Bendigo Art Gallery, one of Australia’s oldest and largest regional galleries.
- Eating in Bendigo: Masons of Bendigo offers a fine dining experience, using local wine and produce to create excellent meals. For a more casual dining option, try The Good Loaf Sourdough Bakery & Café, where you can enjoy delicious sandwiches and pastries made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Bendigo Pottery: Established in 1858, it is Australia’s oldest working pottery house. It features a gallery, an interpretive museum, and hands-on clay experiences. You can also attend pottery workshops and learn the craft from expert potters.
- Clunes: A slow, quiet day in an authentic country town with plenty of cafes and bookstores. Clunes is known as the “Booktown” of Australia, and you can spend hours browsing through the many bookshops lining the streets. While in Clunes, be sure to visit the Clunes Museum and the Bottle Museum, both offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history.
- Talbot: This quaint town is home to the Talbot Farmers Market, held on the third Sunday of every month. With over 80 stalls, you’ll find a wide range of fresh produce, artisan products, and delicious food. Take a stroll through the town and admire the well-preserved Victorian architecture.
- Creswick Woollen Mills: Witness the process of Alpaca fibres being turned into wool through a fully interactive tour called ‘A Very Fine Yarn.’ You can also shop for high-quality woollen products like scarves, blankets, and clothing.
- Mill Markets: A place to find a mix of collectables, antiques, and more. With three locations across the Goldfields (Ballarat, Daylesford, and Geelong), the Mill Markets are a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike.
- Ballarat: End your road trip in the historic city of Ballarat. Visit Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that recreates the atmosphere of a gold-mining town during the 1850s gold rush. Don’t miss the Ballarat Wildlife Park, where you can get up close and personal with native Australian animals like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
- Lydiard Street in Ballarat: This iconic street is lined with heritage-listed grand buildings, including the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, the Ballarat Railway Station, and Her Majesty’s Theatre. Take a leisurely walk along Lydiard Street and soak in the history and architecture of this beautiful city.
Tips for a Smooth Road Trip with Car Rental Victoria
- Book in advance: Book your car rental well before your trip to ensure the best prices and availability.
- Choose the right vehicle: Consider the size of your group and the type of terrain you’ll be covering when selecting a car. Select a car rental agency in Victoria that offers many vehicles to suit your needs, from economy car rentals to SUV rental services.
- Plan your itinerary: Research the attractions and destinations you want to visit and plan your route accordingly. This will help you make the most of your time in Victoria’s Goldfields.
- Check local regulations: Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and regulations, such as speed limits and parking rules, to ensure a safe and hassle-free trip.
- Pack essentials: Bring along items such as a GPS device or smartphone with maps, a first aid kit, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a phone charger.
Car Rental Victoria
By planning your itinerary, booking your car rental in advance, and following our tips for a smooth road trip, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories in this captivating region. Plus, check out Alpha Car Hire’s discount rental cars to make the most out of your budget. So, pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the road for the perfect Goldfields adventure!
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2014 and has been updated for freshness, comprehensiveness and accuracy.