Goldfields

In 1851 when gold was discovered, central Victoria became stricken with gold fever. Tens of thousands of hopeful prospectors left China, Canada, the United States and Europe for the goldfields of southern Australia. The townships that sprang up around those gold diggings prospered. Discover the opulent legacy of the mid-1800s gold rush in the architecture, parks and hotels of Bendigo, Ballarat and surrounding towns.

Ballarat, one of Victoria's largest cities, was built on gold. Visit Sovereign Hill open air Museum to re-live the gold rush. The world's largest deposit of alluvial gold was discovered here in the 19th Century, and that wealth is still on display in the city's grand public buildings, hotels and botanic gardens. Ballarat Wildlife Park is another must-see attraction, offering close contact with koalas, wombats and kangaroos amid natural bushland.

Bendigo's rich history is reflected in its elegant sandstone buildings, century-old gardens and beautiful established trees. Its hotels provide sumptuous accommodation, and sidewalk cafés, art galleries and boutique shops line the streets.

Bendigo's Chinese heritage is on display at Golden Dragon Museum, and the nearby Shamrock Hotel is a living example of the city's impressive Victorian architecture.

To fully experience 19th-century Australia, go underground on a one-hour tour of the Central Deborah Gold Mine, then catch the Bendigo Talking Tram for a travelling commentary on local history. Or visit Ballarat's Sovereign Hill, an authentic re-creation of a 19th century mining town, and catch the Blood on the Southern Cross light and sound spectacular, which re-creates the 1854 Eureka Stockade, a defining moment in Australia's history when Ballarat's miners rose up against colonial rulers.

Discover some of Australia's most important art collections in the region's galleries. The Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery, houses an extensive collection of colonial works and contemporary art, as well as the original Eureka flag.

Treasures can also be found at farm gates and local eateries, including homemade pies, locally farmed organic beef, catch-your-own trout farms, olive groves and garden tomatoes.

Sample beautiful local wines on the Great Grape Touring Route, or make your own way to the region's numerous cellar doors. Nine vineyards lie within a 25-kilometre radius of Ballarat, and the nearby Bendigo and Heathcote wine regions are famous for their fine shiraz.

Visit some of the charming smaller towns and the many vineyards, orchards and historic homes. See the historic buildings and antique shops of Castlemaine, the beautifully maintained mining township of Maldon, or visit Clunes, home of the first gold discovery in Victoria, and a location for the Australian film Ned Kelly.

Go to Visit Victoria (Goldfields) for further information.