Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve

A small carpark in Tenth St took us onto a short trail through flat grassy areas, past mineral springs, along narrow dirt tracks and up wooden staircases. One of several creek crossings was the long bridge spanning Spring Creek. We saw the first of many colourful fungi, in the form of bright red toadstools growing by the water's edge below.

 The cool Winter morning had added sparkling highlights to the foliage and it was a magical world of colour on the forest floor. 

The path led us to Sulphur Springs - the least sulphuric of all the springs here - where we tasted the fresh flowing water from the pump. It was a little too early in the day to be adding Vodka and Lime, but the soda water was a refreshing thirst quencher as we continued on our walk.

 

We followed the trail as far as Wyuna Springs, saving the 30 minute continuation to Argyle Springs for another day.

 

We headed back the way we came, passing by the century old Edwardian style Hepburn Pavilion, before walking back up the other side of the creek to the car.

What: Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve
Where: Tenth Ave, Hepburn Springs
When: Daily
Why: walks, mineral springs
How Much: FREE to walk around and explore
Nearby: Mt Franklin

Grab a coffee at: Blue Bean Love

The Blowhole, Hepburn Springs

A short walk from the carpark led us to the wooden staircase above The Blowhole. The steep descent was accompanied by the sound of the water gushing below.

The tunnel was made by goldminers in the 1870's, to divert water from Sailor's Creek through the rock, to a dry bed where they could pan for gold in the still waters. The water flows at its heaviest during Winter and Spring.

The track levelled out into an area around the waters edge, where we sat and watched the flow from the opposite side.

A few platforms around the Blowhole allowed us to see the area from different viewpoints.

The short loop of the Blowhole Track is part of the 16km Tipperary Walking Track, which runs from Lake Daylesford to Argyle Springs. The 6 hour trek  meanders through forests, crosses creeks and passes by natural mineral springs along the way.

This short stroll from the carpark was all we could manage. This time. We hope to do the entire track one day. 

 

What: The Blowhole
Where: Midland Hwy, Hepburn Springs
When: Daily
Why: walks
How Much: FREE to walk around and explore
Nearby: Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve

Peace Mile Trail, Lake Daylesford

Take an hour to stroll Peace Mile Trail on the edge of Lake Daylesford. On a crisp Autumn morning, the blue sky, the changing colours of the trees and the bright paddle boats all create a postcard perfect photo opportunity.

The bright red berries of the holly trees are bursting with colour right now.

Cross the road and continue around the Lake, past the Lakehouse and the local geese community.

Honk if you love geese. HONK!

Spend another hour (or two) at the Daylesford Bookbarn, where you'll find the shelves loaded with second hand books from all genres. I got myself these 3 beautiful old books, filled with fascinating old photos of Australian buildings.

What: Lake Daylesford

Where: Leggatt St, Daylesford

When: Daily

Why: Lake, bird spotting,  bushland, walks, wildlife

How Much:FREE
Nearby:  Wombat Hill