Load the family in the car and in 40 minutes you will arrive in the gorgeous Macedon Ranges, a place where you can excite your taste buds, your creative side and the kids’ sense of fun. And mama should know. I lived there for 8 years! From winter snow on the Mount to local markets and wineries, the Macedon Ranges has something for everyone, and it’s so close to home!

Living Legends

Like horses? Then this is your first stop on the way up to the Macedon Ranges.
Pack your picnic and enjoy the surrounds of this historic homestead which overlooks the grassy woodlands of Gellibrand Hill. Here you can rub noses (literally you can rub their noses!) with some of horse racing’s finest including Rogan Josh, Brew and Might and Power. The site has amazing city views and is only 5 mins past the airport. Woodlands Historic Park, Oaklands Road Greenvale.
www.livinglegends.org.au

Gisborne Peak Winery

You wont regret sitting by the lake and enjoying a fabulous woodfired pizza
and a glass of excellent wine here! If you can steal some kid free time, make a weekend of it and stay in their self-contained eco-cottage overlooking the lake. Bliss!
69 Short Road Gisborne South
www.gisbornepeakwines.com.au

Gisborne Olde Time Market

The Gisborne Market has over 250 stalls offering a large range of products. Food and wine, fresh produce, quality hand made items, arts and crafts, clothing, accessories, jewellery, books, plants and fresh flowers. You will also find entertainment for the kids and products for your pets. First Sunday of the month. 9am – 2pm. Hamilton and Aitken Streets and Howey Reserve, Gisborne.

Mount Macedon Memorial Cross

At the summit of Mount Macedon is the Memorial Cross which commemorates those who gave their lives in the 1914– 1918 war. Erected on a vantage point with stunning views, the Cross is 21 metres in height and 1001 metres above sea level. Originally built in 1935, it was replaced in 1995 due to storm and fire damage. Take time to read the plaques and soak in the history. In really cold winter conditions it even snows, adding to the area’s magic. Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon.

Woodend Children’s Park

This amazing park covers one hectare on the banks of Five Mile Creek. The park fits beautifully into the landscape and uses native hardwood and stone as its main features. Highlights are the 8 metre climbing wall, large flying fox, and a fenced playground for toddlers. Plenty
of space to run around plus BBQs and shelter an added bonus.
12 Nicholson Street Woodend

Hanging  Rock

No trip to the Macedon Ranges is complete without visiting the Hanging Rock Reserve, said to be one of the best examples of a volcanic feature (called a mamelon) in the world. The reserve offers features such as walks up the magnificent rock, picnic areas and lots of native wildlife. It often plays host to film nights under the starts, concerts and horse racing.
South Rock Road, Newham. Open daily 9am-5pm. $10 entry per car.

Wild Action Zookeeper Experience

The Wild Action private zoo is nestled in the foothills of Mt Macedon and their wildlife collection consists of many rare and endangered creatures, all of which are hand reared and amenable to handling. Spend a whole day with zoologist Chris Humfrey from ABC’s hit series “Chris Humfrey’s Wild Life!” Get up close and personal with over 2000 animals! The Wild Action Team is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and show casing Australia’s rich biodiversity. 48 Middle Gully Road Macedon.
www.wildaction.com.au

Holgate Brewhouse

It can’t all be about the kids! Holgate owners Paul and Natasha fell in love at 19, got married, travelled the world and came home inspired! What resulted was a vision and passion for good beer, food and wine! They started the brewhouse in their backyard in 1999. It is now operated on the site of the old Commercial Hotel which they bought in 2002, refurbished and renamed Holgate’s. Craft beer doesn’t get any fresher or tastier. Like many local attractions, you can also stay the night in one of their 10 beautiful guest rooms (just in case mama has one too many beers!)
79 High Street Woodend.
www.holgatebrewhouse.com

Piper Street Kyneton

Full of independent retailers with eclectic tastes and a DIY ethic, Browse shops featuring local artists, antique delights, whimsical furniture and vintage finds from all over the world then sit down for a relax in one of the grand old pubs or stylish cafes. Many kid friendly options to be found. Mama’s favs are a shop at Emporium and Stockroom, tasty delights at Piper Street Food Company and pop into The Royal George Hotel for
a craft beer and some casual dining.
piperstreet.com.au

For more information on the
Macedon Ranges visit
www.visitmacedonranges.com