Every visit will reveal new surprises and experiences. With the gusto of a gold-seeking miner, the people who live here are creating fascinating products, services and stories that add to the richness of the region’s boom time past. It is an ever-changing feast to be explored.
Nearby Heathcote has not missed the beat with artisans of food, wine and art flocking to be part of the action. Wide streets lined by opulent buildings are now interwoven with intriguing laneways and arcades that are home to a new breed of innovators who again delve deep to create a vibrant energy across the city.
Modern day Bendigo has sublime food, wine and shopping experiences against a stunning heritage backdrop. Fresh regional produce, quality cuisine and fine wine combine to create Bendigo’s contemporary food and wine scene that is a favorite with locals and out-of-towners alike.
Located in Central Victoria just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Bendigo’s gold mining past remains evident in its glorious sandstone buildings and remnants of long-abandoned mines.
While it was once gold diggers who flocked to the regional centre with the hope of finding their fortune, today food and wine enthusiasts travel to Bendigo to enjoy the areas robust wines and locally produced cuisine.
Bendigo’s first grape vines were planted just after the gold rush in 1856. While gold diggers travelled to Australia from all corners of the globe with a lust for gold, their knowledge of European food and wine enabled them to recognise the idealic climatic conditions Central Victoria provided for the production of wine.
Enjoying long hours of summer sunshine and deep soils, the area is now well known for producing robust, full flavored Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as Chardonnay, Riesling and Sangiovese – all of which bear the distinct characters of the region. Visitors will find wineries hidden in the picturesque hills and valleys around the district, with many of Bendigo’s vineyards still operated by their founding families. Meet the winemakers, taste varieties and make the most of the many cellar doors including Balgownie Estate, Sandhurst Ridge and Chateau Leamon which offer a casual and friendly atmosphere.
While you’re in the area, enjoy regional cuisine including Bullboar sausages, locally pressed olive oil, and luscious goat’s cheese. Don’t forget to add to the list some of Victoria’s finest apples and juicy pears straight from the growers in Harcourt.
Bendigo also offers a wide range of excellent dining options. Sip creamy lattes in the town’s contemporary cafes; take pleasure in a fine dining experience at one of the restored heritage buildings, or feast at a local vineyard while taking in the spectacular view.
The Goldfields boast three significant wine regions – Bendigo, Ballarat and Heathcote. For a perfect day out this holiday season, travel to the area and experience the beautiful food and wine the district is renowned for.
Great for:
- Gym & Fitness
- Parks & Recreation
- Eating Out
- Internet Access
- Shopping Options
Who lives here?
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Professionals
- Singles
- Students
Suburbs Nearby:
- Golden Square
- Ironbark
- Long Gully
- White Hills
- Flora Hill
- North Bendigo
- Quarry Hill
- Kennington
- East Bendigo