Goldfields

In the mid-19th century, central Victoria was stricken with gold fever. Tens of thousands of prospectors left their homes in China, Canada, the United States and various European countries for the goldfields of southern Australia. Some became very rich. Many didn't. But the townships that sprang up around those gold diggings became places of prosperity and importance - and remain so to this day.

Located north-west of Melbourne, Bendigo and Ballarat are outstanding regional cities that exude history and style. Both are filled with magnificent period buildings, wide streets and the majestic public gardens of a bygone era. The main streets are filled with splendid shops, nestled in the shade of their vast verandahs. And both cities celebrate their gold-mining past.

Bendigo offers the Central Deborah Gold Mine, an operational mine that takes visitors deep underground. In Ballarat, the fascinating Sovereign Hill outdoor museum attracts half a million visitors each year. Set up to replicate an 1850s version of the local goldfields, it extends across 25 hectares of what was once the world's richest alluvial gold mine. Every night Sovereign Hill is transformed as the Blood on the Southern Cross light and sound spectacular re-creates the Eureka stockade, an 1854 uprising by Ballarat's miners against unjust colonial rulers.

But it's not just the allure of gold that draws visitors to Ballarat and Bendigo. Bendigo's absorbing Golden Dragon Museum pays tribute to the city's Chinese heritage, while nearby is the Shamrock Hotel, a living example of the impressive Victorian architecture that gives Bendigo its flavour.

Art lovers also have the chance to visit Australia's two premier regional art galleries. Both Bendigo and Ballarat Fine Art Galleries house extensive collections of early Australian art, as well as works by international artists.

To embrace the beauty of the goldfields, discover the region's magnificent history and picturesque surroundings on the Ballarat Gold Trail, Mount Alexander Diggings Trail, Koori Heritage Trail and Ballarat Chinese Heritage Trail, or sample beautiful local wines on the Great Grape Touring Route.

Stay at gracious B&Bs and travel further afield to 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 in 1851, a town which served as a set for iconic Australian Film, Ned Kelly which starred actor Heath Ledger.

Ballarat Wildlife Park is another must-see attraction, offering close contact with koalas, wombats, kangaroos and even crocodiles. It houses a rich collection of Australian wildlife in 16 hectares of natural bushland.

With a vivid history and plenty of contemporary luxuries, Victoria's goldfields are a gorgeous and elegant treat.

Go to Visit Victoria (Goldfields) for further information.