Mount Macedon

For over 100 years Melburnians have been escaping the summer heat amid the glorious gardens and old-world mansions of Mount Macedon, originally known as Geburrh in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri people.

Mount Macedon is best known for its lookout adorned with a memorial cross to commemorate those who served in the world wars. The spectacular vistas of Melbourne and beyond are just reward for a strenuous hike to the summit. Visit the cross on ANZAC Day to take part in one of the country's most moving dawn services.

Take the long walk up to Camels Hump, a rocky outcrop formed by a small steep-sided volcano, which is the highest point in the Macedon Ranges. Look out across to Hanging Rock and the northern rural landscape from the top.

However, public parks and reserves won't disappoint, with manicured gardens accompanying the town's more rugged environs. Smell the roses at the historic State Nursery at Macedon and take the Forest Eco-Tourism Walking Trail at Sanatorium Lake. Macedon Regional Park offers up panoramic views, scenic drives, picnic facilities, walking trails, cultural and historic sites of interest and a diversity of flora and fauna.

Some of the area's most immaculately preserved gardens are private, so time your visit for regular Open Gardens Scheme open days for the chance to peek behind fences.

Discover why Mount Macedon has long been considered a foodie destination. Pick up fresh produce from farm gates and local providores, and meet winemakers and taste wines at cellar doors, including Hanging Rock (be sure to sample the iconic Macedon Cuvee), Curly Flat, Cobaw Ridge, Bindi and Granite Hills.

Bring your bike and ride through Macedon Regional Park or time your trip to coincide with November's Mt Macedon Challenge, an annual highlight.

Mount Macedon is 65 kilometres from Melbourne and less than an hour's drive on the Calder Freeway.