Castlemaine, Maldon & Bendigo
To the north of Kyneton Bushland Resort lies the historic Central Victorian goldfields Region.
Known for its gold rush history and historic buildings, the region is full of attractions.
The Victorian Goldfields Railways runs from Castlemaine to Maldon via steam train and takes you through the picturesque Box-Iron Bark forest.
Castlemaine
Castlemaine began as the centre of the Mount Alexander goldfields in the 1850's during the peak of the gold rush and was at one point larger than Melbourne City. Castlemaine is situated approximately 44kms north west of Kyneton via the Calder Fwy (M079).
One of the main heritage buildings in town is the Theatre Royal which has been operating since 1858 and is the oldest continuously operating theatre in Australia. The Old Castlemaine Gaol was built in 1861 and operated until 1990 when it closed down and the prisoners transferred to HM Prison Loddon.
Castlemaine is now known for it's beautiful wineries, art galleries, industries and country charm and is definitely worth a look if travelling through the region.
Directions from Kyneton Bushland Resort to Castlemaine. Castlemaine is also accessible via rail from the Kyneton Railway Station. Go to www.vline.com.au for timetable and fare information.
Maldon
Maldon is known for its reputation as a picturesque historical town that was settled in the early 1800s during the gold rush period. The township thrived during this period and at various times recorded the highest gold returns in the state. However, as the gold deposit declined so did the township and the last large mine was closed in 1926.
Maldon has clung to its heritage and many of its buildings have been listed under the National Trust. The township was awarded the "most intact heritage streetscape " by the National Trust in 2006. People are drawn to Maldon not only because of its 19th-century charm but because of the dramatic remnants of its reef mining days and the beauty of its surrounding countryside.
Directions from Kyneton Bushland Resort to Maldon
Bendigo
Located an easy 50-minute drive from Kyneton along the Calder Freeway (M79), the city of Bendigo offers many attractions to explore. Bendigo is located in the centre of Victoria and is known for its gold rush history and magnificent buildings.
Bendigo experienced a population explosion during the gold rush and people came from all over the world to find their fortune. In recent years mining for gold has re-commenced and still continues today.
Directions from Kyneton Bushland Resort to Bendigo
Bendigo is also accessible via rail from the Kyneton Railway Station. Go to www.vline.com.au for timetable and fare information.
Some attractions around the Goldfields Region:
Further Links:
Imagery via KGMG Creative, www.bendigoregion.com.au & @castlemainemaldonsurrounds