A totally indulgent hit list of hot springs and spas in Daylesford

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are renowned as Australia’s premier spa and hot spring country. Come visit and indulge in the enriching effects of both natural mineral bathing and drinking the mineral elixir.

People travel from all over the globe to experience the many physical, mental and spiritual benefits of submerging oneself in geothermal hot springs. Daylesford and Hepburn Springs reign supreme when it comes to destination spas that invigorate the soul and soothe the mood. Here’s a definitive list of the best in the region to retreat from the fray and soak (or sip) nature’s bounty all in.

Hot springs in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs

Almost all of Australia’s natural hot springs are found in Victoria and the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve is a veritable ‘hot spot’ (pun intended) of places to visit. The same goes for the watery wonders of Central Springs Reserve in Daylesford.

Lake Daylesford is surrounded by several hot spring wonders. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Central Springs Reserve – Lake Daylesford

Lake Daylesford is one of the easiest places to access some of the best mineral hot springs in all of Australia. Park your car here or take a short walk from the town centre and meander your way to these four delightful hot springs. We recommend bringing a picnic blanket and a few delicious takeaway snacks from the excellent cafes on the main street. Look out for wildlife on your way because you just might see an echidna, turtles, wallabies, and cute ducklings about.

Lake Daylesford is a short walk from the town centre.

Hard Hills Spring is a highly photogenic and physically beneficial hot spring in Daylesford. This deep piped trench features two outlets. It’s always a highlight for visitors exploring the Central Springs Reserve.

Wagga Spring is a sanctuary for natural bathing and is easily accessible by the addition of manmade steps. It’s easy to spot as you stroll along the sidewalk.

Sutton Spring was originally founded by miners (the sons of Thomas Sutton) who were sluicing for gold in the area. Subsequently, said miners inadvertently assisted in the creation of a limestone-lined trench that feeds the definitive ‘eye’ of the spring here.

Wombat Flat Spring is just a short walk from the centre of Daylesford. It’s nestled in between the shady trees and grassy banks of the stunning lake here. An excellent spot for a leisurely picnic lunch.

Jubilee Lake Mineral Spring

Jubilee Lake Mineral Spring is one of Daylesford’s most relaxing mineral springs. It’s a quick drive from town and is arguably much quieter than other more well-known spas in the area. There’s a kiosk here if you’re hungry après swim.

Jubilee Lake is one of Daylesford’s must-see attractions. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Glenlyon Mineral Spring

Glenlyon Mineral Spring is located adjacent to the scenic Glenlyon Recreation Reserve. It’s a divine place to picnic and/or BBQ while you enjoy sipping on the pure mineral spring. Fact: Glenlyon Mineral Spring features some of the highest levels of soluble salts in the area and is a rich source of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium.

Woolnoughs Crossing Mineral Spring

Woolnoughs Crossing Mineral Spring now here’s a secluded haven that is ideal for rest and relaxation. Situated on scenic Kangaroo Creek the hot spring here is surrounded by decorative stonework and the water features a mineral combination of calcium, magnesium, and sodium.

Leitchs Creek Mineral Springs

Leitchs Creek Mineral Springs is a peaceful nook surrounded by enchanting forest scenes. Note: it’s only a short drive from here to spectacular Trentham Falls and some of the best wineries in the region like Passing Clouds.

Taradale Mineral Springs Reserve

The mineral spring pump at Taradale is a beautiful place to visit and drink the refreshing water whilst enjoying a picnic. It’s also close to the regal Taradale House Estate, a boutique property with luxe cottage-style accommodation.

Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve

Home to Australia’s first mineral spring reserve, this place is great for enjoying nature walks and filling up your water bottle with the refreshing tonics from the series of springs here. Sip on samples from the following springs within the reserve; Soda, Sulphur, Locano, Wyuna and Argyle and experience the benefits of consuming calcium, silica, magnesium and an abundance of other wonderful minerals. There’s also a fun kids’ playground and a neat picnic/BBQ area for visitor use. Remember to bring your own refillable water bottle along and stop by the famous Hepburn Springs Bathhouse which is located in this reserve.

Explore the many wonders of the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Spas and bathhouses

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are the heart of spa country. It’s an alluring destination with a penchant for gourmet cafes and restaurants along with the ever-present benefits of the coal mineral hot springs. What a terrific combination and an excellent excuse (do you even need one?) to plan a Daylesford itinerary that features an indulgent visit to any of the following spas and bathhouses here.

The Spa at Lake House 

Anyone who has been here will enthusiastically attest to how fantastic it is! The impeccable location, the variety of treatments and the opulent suites at the famed Lake House make it one the best destination spas in the country. Their heated hydrotherapy spa is set in a mystical, private location amid the willow trees.

Whisk yourself into a state of zen at The Spa in the Lake House. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Did you know that the mineral spring water in Daylesford is said to help boost your circulation and help with a detoxification process? Well, you do now.  The Spa at the Lake House is open to guests and visitors and all their signature rituals utilise the Lake Houses’ own small batch, luxury bath and body products, many of which harness natural ingredients from the region.

Bask in serenity at The Spa within the iconic Lake House in Daylesford. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Acqua Viva Day Spa 

Offers exceptional service and a tempting spa menu that’s bound to impress. Book in for a blissful massage, mineral water spa soak, facial treatment, Vichy Shower Steam Bath and/or a mud wrap. It’s a popular day spa in Hepburn Springs with reasonably affordable treatments.  A great central location near all of our favourite accommodation options here.

Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Country Spa 

Open to in-house guests and day trippers alike, the Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Country Spa is a tranquil space to enjoy a private Japanese bathing ritual, yoga class and/or a traditional shiatsu massage.

Revitalise in true Japanese style with a bathing ritual at Shizuka Ryokan. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Their signature ‘geisha facial’ leaves your skin and spirit feeling refreshed and revitalised. Be sure to check out their tailored accommodation and spa packages before booking.

Cap off your experience with an authentic Japanese meal.

The Mineral Spa 

A restorative, highly acclaimed spa that boasts potent healing treatments that draw from natural earth elements. After something a little different? Night bathing in the ‘retreat area’, an indoor/outdoor mineral water therapy zone is a totally unique spa experience. All other spa packages (including a combination of mineral springs soaks and body treatments) are available seven days a week from 9am.

The Mineral Spa is located within the iconic Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat in Hepburn Springs. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Note: the pools here are a balmy 380 degrees Celsius and there’s also a cool plunge pool to invigorate you, a basalt stone sauna, 11 treatment rooms and a dedicated steam room. The Mineral Spa is located within the grounds of the historic Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat in Hepburn Springs – one of the best luxury stays in the region. 

Detoxify at Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat in Hepburn Springs. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa 

A peaceful haven for people seeking wellness-themed treatment, a soak in the onsite mineral springs, a nutritious lunch, or all of the above.

Soothe your tired muscles in the rejuvenating pool at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The historic Hepburn Bathhouse draws mineral-rich water direct from nature’s source for guests to enjoy and the dedicated spa therapists are experts in deluxe body massages, facials, thermal mud rituals and more.

Relax in the spa lounge. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Travel Tip: enquire about the great range of Hepburn Springs spa packages before you visit.

Head to the Hepburn Bathhouse for a relaxing massage. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Daylesford Day Spa

Destress your body, mind, and spirit via an indulgent treatment here. This award-winning venue offers an excellent range of Daylesford spa packages. The expert therapists are all about the ‘art of relaxation’ and you will be too after a treatment or two.

History of the Springs and Spas

Interesting fact, many Dreamtime stories of the Djadjawurrung people of the Munal Gundidj clan who first occupied this region relate to the healing mineral waters here. Fast forward to the 1850s and the colonial discovery of Daylesford and the surrounding areas hot springs peaked with the influx of miners chasing gold rush riches. Modern-day society introduced dedicated day spas and bathhouse sanctuaries in the late 1980s and early 90s.

The mineral spring spas and geothermal hot spring baths were originally created via volcanic activity in around the Macedon Ranges millions of years ago and it’s fascinating to think that eons later we get to appreciate the mystical benefits and healing properties of these sacred hot springs.