48 Hours at Cleveland Estate
Nestled in Victoria’s breathtaking Macedon Ranges, Cleveland Estate is a haven for visitors looking to escape city hustle and immerse themselves in countryside charm. This region is a veritable playground, offering something for everyone: lush vineyards, scenic trails, local art, and vibrant markets. Known for its food and wine, breweries and distilleries, historic sites, and the iconic Hanging Rock, the Macedon Ranges delivers tranquillity with a generous dash of adventure. Your 48-hour getaway at Cleveland Estate promises the best of it all – a restful stay, delicious local fare, mouth-watering vineyard experiences, and awe-inspiring views to set the scene.
Day 1
Afternoon
Check in at Cleveland Estate at 2.00 pm and settle into the luxurious comfort of your room before exploring the estate’s sprawling grounds. With over 100 acres of vineyards, peaceful gardens, and a small lake nestled against rolling hills, Cleveland Estate epitomises rural bliss. Take a dreamy stroll and discover the charming Carriage House Restaurant and the grand country Homestead, dating back to 1887. The estate offers plenty to keep you entertained: a games room with a billiard table, cozy guest lounges, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Just two kilometres away, the quaint village of Lancefield awaits. Its pastoral charm, mid-18th-century architecture, and lively arts and antiques scene make for a picturesque setting. Wander through, soaking in an atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lancefield also offers family-friendly cycling trails – the perfect way to enjoy the town’s rustic beauty.
Cleveland Estate
Evening
Lancefield’s dining scene offers tempting options to start your night. Stop by the historic Lancefield Hotel, established in 1870, for a menu packed with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The hotel works with regional farmers to create delicious dishes, accompanied by weekly specials and a warm, welcoming vibe. Alternatively, head next door to Lost Watering Hole brewery to sample local beers like Big Roo Pale Ale or Swamp Rat Dark Lager, all crafted with 100% natural ingredients. With a range of small plates, share platters, and hearty meals, it’s an ideal spot for a laid-back evening.
Day 2
Morning
Begin with a hearty buffet breakfast at the estate, then set out to one of the Macedon Ranges’ renowned Farmers Markets. Each Saturday, a different market showcases the region’s agricultural and artisan delights. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer:
- Kyneton Farmers Market: Held at historic St Paul’s Church on Piper Street, this market offers fresh produce against a backdrop of cafes, shops, and the award-winning Midnight Starling bistro. Second Saturday of the month: 08:30 am to 1:00 pm.
- Lancefield Farmers Market: Along the grassy High Street, this plastic-free market is a sight to behold. Afterward, embark on a mini wine-tasting tour with stops at nearby estates like Cleveland Winery and Curly Flat. Fourth Saturday of the month: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Woodend Community Farmers Market: Near Woodend’s main strip and close to a children’s playground, this vibrant market is ideal for families. Later, enjoy a tasting paddle at Holgate Brewhouse or hike the iconic Hanging Rock. First Saturday of the month: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Malmsbury Village Farmers Market: Close to the beautiful Malmsbury Botanic Gardens, this market makes a lovely Sunday outing, complete with a scenic picnic. Third Sunday of the month: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Riddells Creek Farmers Market: A quaint, grassroots market with local produce, crafts, and live music. Nearby, try a bushwalk at Conglomerate Gully Flora Reserve or visit Dromkeen Homestead. Third Saturday of the month: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Macedon Village Farmers Market: Held by the local primary school, this seasonal market is near Mt Macedon’s hiking trails and Forest Glade Gardens. It runs four times a year on the fifth Saturday of the month: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Lunch
After gathering local produce, drive up Mount Macedon for a picnic at Sanatorium Lake Picnic Area. Surrounded by forest, Sanatorium Lake is both peaceful and pretty, with an eco-trail that loops through native bushland. From here, venture up to Camels Hump, the highest point on Mount Macedon, offering far-reaching views of the landscape.
Sanatorium Lake
Camels Hump
Next, pay a visit to the iconic Mt Macedon Memorial Cross, a tribute to fallen soldiers with breathtaking vistas of the Macedon Ranges. This towering 21-metre-high war memorial is a profound homage to those who served in conflicts around the world, standing as one of the most moving and iconic sites for Anzac Day dawn commemorations in Australia.
Afternoon
A scenic drive down the mountain brings you to Woodend, another charming town nestled in the heart of the Macedon Ranges. Woodend’s main street buzzes with life, where the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweet scent of buttery pastries drifting from local bakeries. Step into boutique shops, where the soft shuffle of feet and gentle hum of conversation set a welcoming tone, or wander through art galleries, where vibrant colours and intricate textures spark the imagination and tell captivating stories. Kids will have a blast at the Woodend Children’s Park, one of the region’s best playgrounds, with exciting play equipment, picnic areas, and shady spots perfect for family gatherings.
For an afternoon of local pours and bevvie tastings, start with Holgate Brewhouse in Woodend, a renowned family-owned brewery crafting some of the region’s finest craft beers. After sampling their brews, continue your culinary adventure with wine tasting and a cheese platter at Hanging Rock Winery. Adding an artistic touch to the extraordinary setting, the winery also presents ‘Art in the Vines’ sculpture exhibitions, featuring the work of local and national artists.
Hanging Rock Winery
Round off your tastings at Big Tree Distillery, known for its small-batch, artisanal gins. Sample their unique creations, produced with local botanicals, and learn about the mastery if the distillation process. Relax and savour each sip while enjoying the serene, picturesque views over Jack Springs Farm, where the tranquil landscape perfectly complements the aromatic flavours in your glass.
Evening
Back at Cleveland Estate, unwind with a unique tasting at the estate’s historic underground cellar. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold Shiraz, a crisp Chardonnay, or a refreshing sparkling Pinot Noir, the selection here promises to thrill the taste buds and bring a smile with each pour.
For dinner, Cleveland Estate’s Carriage House Restaurant beckons with exquisite dishes and extensive views. No matter if you choose to dine indoors or on the deck, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery overlooking the vineyards and lake, with the rugged beauty of Mt William as a backdrop. Cherish the region’s freshest ingredients in a meal to remember.
Day 3
Morning
Begin your day with a fascinating outing to Hanging Rock, a place of immense cultural significance and natural beauty. This ancient volcanic formation, known as a mamelon, was shaped around 6.25 million years ago as magma surged from a vent, cooling and forming the iconic rock towers seen today. Hanging Rock is sacred to the Dja Dja Wurrung, Woi Wurrung, and Taungurung Peoples, serving as a revered gathering site and enduring symbol of connection to Country.
Explore well-maintained trails, where the crisp mountain air carries the earthy scent of eucalyptus. As you ascend, the crunch of gravel underfoot and the occasional rustle of leaves heighten the journey. If you’re lucky, you might spot one of the resident koalas dozing in the treetops. At the summit, breathtaking panoramic views stretch before you, framed by the golden glow of sunlight on the countryside. Children will go crazy for the labyrinth of caves, tunnels, caverns, giant boulders, and towering rock formations, with every twist and turn revealing a new mini-adventure.
The mysterious disappearance of schoolgirls at Hanging Rock in 1901 is just one of many legends associated with this site. Visitors claim to sense the lingering presence of the girls as they ascend, an eerie allure brought to life by Joan Lindsay’s novel Picnic at Hanging Rock and Peter Weir’s film adaptation.
Gain knowledge about Hanging Rock’s history and ecology at the Discovery Centre, and take advantage of picnic areas, free barbecue facilities, and a fully licensed café. The reserve is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except Christmas Day (entry fees apply).
Lunch
For a final meal, indulge at Mount Monument’s cellar door and vineyard restaurant, nestled in the scenic foothills of Mount Macedon. The restaurant showcases the best of Macedon Ranges wine and dining with shared plates and contemporary dishes. The vineyard’s sculptures add a unique blend of art and nature to your visit.
Afternoon
Before departing, savour one last dose of tranquillity by roaming one of the region’s open gardens. The Macedon Ranges’ gardens burst with colour each season, from spring blooms to autumn hues. Forest Glade Gardens, a historic private garden on Mount Macedon, is especially worth visiting, with nearly six hectares of English, Italian, Asian, and woodland garden styles. Pack a picnic, wander among fountains and sculptures, and soak up the natural beauty.
Extend Your Trip
If time permits, explore more of the Macedon Ranges’ alluring towns:
- Kyneton: Wander down Piper Street and enjoy a delightful mix of cafes, art galleries, shops, and eateries. Don’t miss attractions like the Historic Town Walk, Campaspe River Walk, Botanic Gardens and playground, Animus Distillery, Musk Lane Wine and Kyneton Ridge Estate – just to name a few.
- Daylesford/Hepburn Springs: Celebrated for rejuvenating natural springs and luxurious spas, these towns offer wellness retreats with heated spas, mineral baths, plunge pools, saunas, flotation tanks, and a full suite of beauty and massage treatments. The iconic Lake House restaurant attracts enthusiastic foodies from Australia and around the world.
- Gisborne: A village with beautiful parks, historic buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere. Highlights include Jackson’s Creek walk, Gisborne Peak Winery, Baringo Food and Wine Co, Mountain Distilling Tasting Room, 3 Little Pigs Café, Gisborne Golf Club, miniature railway, and Gisborne Old Time Market.
