A Local Designer’s Guide to Daylesford: Luxury, Food & Art
Daylesford marks a clear shift in pace. Located in the Victorian Highlands on the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung Peoples, the Months & Seasons Country House is designed as a quiet, design-led sanctuary. Rather than just a base for sightseeing, it’s a space to actually settle in. Here is our curated guide to spending 48 hours in Australia’s premier spa country.
Friday Afternoon: Checking In & "The First Soak"
Your weekend begins the moment you step into the light-filled warmth of the Country House.
The Check-In Ritual: Drop your bags and take a moment to appreciate the curated art and the view toward the forest. The house is designed for immediate relaxation—turn on the hydronic heating, check out the garden.
The Soak: Since you are in the heart of spa country, head five minutes down the road to the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. A twilight soak in the 100% pure magnesium and mineral-rich waters is the ultimate way to wash away the city.
Sundowners: Return to the house to enjoy a local Gin from the Hepburn Distillery, which is located right by the back gate of our house. Then sit and relax by the outdoor fire pit.
Saturday Morning: Botanical Wandering & Artisanal Brews
Wake up to the sun streaming through the gardens.
Breakfast: Start your day at Cliffy’s Emporium for a rustic local breakfast, or head to Wombat Hill House (nestled within the Botanic Gardens) for coffee and pastries in a lush, high-altitude setting.
The Walk: A gentle stroll through the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens offers panoramic views of the township and the volcanic peaks beyond.
Saturday Afternoon/Evening: The Kyneton Curation and Sanctuary Dinner
Take the scenic 30-minute drive to Kyneton, where the historic Piper Street precinct offers a masterclass in boutique curation.
Design & Discovery: Your first stop must be Kabinett, located within the majestic Royal George Hotel. It is a treasure trove of industrial vintage, rare fragrances, and homewares that appeal to the discerning eye.
Art Stop: Browse the contemporary works at Stockroom or the exquisite botanical prints at Lauriston Press.
Provisioning for the Night: Tonight is about the luxury of a home-cooked meal in our professional V-Zug chef’s kitchen.
Pick up local cuts from Hardwicks of Kyneton.
Visit The Fishmonger Kyneton for the freshest seasonal seafood.
Grab artisanal sourdough and handmade terrine from Piper St Food Co.
Return to the Country House as the dusk settles over the forest. Pour a drink, put on a record, and enjoy the theatre of cooking with fresh local ingredients. There is no reservation more exclusive than a private dinner in a house designed for the seasons.
Sunday Morning: Lake Daylesford & The Slow Return
Before you depart, take one last moment to breathe.
The Lake: A gentle lap of Lake Daylesford is essential. The reflections of the boathouse on the water are best captured in the early morning stillness.
The Final Stop: Visit The Convent Gallery for a mix of art, history, and sweeping views of the town before hitting the road.