Leave the city behind and discover Beaufort, a small town with a big history and strong ties to the fine wines and produce of the Pyrenees.
Beaufort started as a gold rush town when gold was discovered at Fiery Creek in 1854. Wander down the peaceful main street, where historic gold rush architecture houses local shops, quaint eateries and craft and antique boutiques.
Get the kids together for a day at Beaufort Lake, a popular picnic spot. Both visitors and locals also use the lake for fishing, waterskiing, swimming and boating.
Explore Mount Buangor State Park and Mount Cole State Forest to see native orchids and wildflowers in bloom during the springtime. Take in the views of the surrounding hills on the Beeripmo walking track, or throw yourself into the variety of outdoor activities on offer at Grampians National Park.
Visit the wineries of the famous Pyrenees wine region. Throughout the year many wineries offer menus designed by top chefs to complement specially selected wines, as well as live music and theatre shows.
Check out the annual Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally to see old steam-powered machinery in action and bring your glow sticks and dance moves to the Rainbow Serpent Festival, a summer long-weekend of music, art, performance, spiritual education and healing. Beaufort is located on the Western Highway just 30 minutes west of Ballarat.
