Modern-day Malmsbury retains the spirit of its early years while embracing the beauty and tranquillity of the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region. Take in historic streetscapes featuring numerous National Trust buildings, explore the lush botanic gardens, and see the famous viaduct nearby.

Set out from the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens along the walking track to the old railway viaduct, built in 1859 using thousands of labourers to carry the Bendigo line over the Coliban River. One of Victoria’s largest nineteenth-century engineering structures, the bridge section consists of five arched spans reaching 152 metres from end to end.

Contemporary creatives and craftspeople provide more up-to-date sights around town. Admire the works by local artists at Malmsbury Bakery & Gallery and Tin Shed Arts, and visit Bleak House to see sculptures amid 20 acres of beautiful rose gardens and orchards. For a hands-on art experience and memento of your visit, make your own jewellery at Made in Malmsbury.

Winegrowing across the region has gone from strength to strength in recent decades. Buy from cellar doors and enjoy view-of-the-vine dining experiences at local wineries like Birthday Villa, Tarrangower Estate, Zig Zag and Fontanella Wines.

From grape to bean – coffee fiends need not worry. Great brews are available from local favourites, Small Holdings and Moto Bean Café. Round out your breakfast with baked delights from Malmsbury Bakery.

Malmsbury is just over an hour from Melbourne along the Calder Highway.