The discovery of gold in Victoria’s central region over 150 years ago has left a rich and lasting legacy in almost every town in the Goldfields. Tour the impressive Victorian streetscapes of Bendigo and Ballarat with their grand hotels and public buildings or explore the quaint shopfronts and miners’ cottages in townships such as Maldon, Castlemaine and Dunolly. Learn about gold rush history at one of the region’s historic attractions. Sovereign Hill, The Eureka Centre and the Central Deborah Gold Mine all offer a fascinating insight into life above and below the ground during the 1850s and 1860s. Set on a former gold mining site, Sovereign Hill is an outdoor museum recreating the gold rush era in fascinating detail. Take time to speak to the storekeepers and miners or pan for gold. Take a break from exploring the goldfields at a stylish local cafe or restaurant. Local restaurants make the most of the fine local produce of the region, and you can also sample the local wines, olives, apples and more, direct from the farm gate or cellar door. The region also boasts outstanding galleries and gardens. Relax and unwind in one of the elegant parklands and historic botanic gardens or see superb collections of local and European painting at two of Australia’s finest regional galleries – the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery and Bendigo Art Gallery.