With an olde worlde village feel, a heaving paddock-to-plate food scene and some of the most rejuvenating spa experiences on its doorstep, as if you needed another excuse to visit the gorgeous town of Daylesford.
Sitting in the foothills of the Macedon Ranges, this Victorian gem has just welcomed a newcomer – and it is bound to make your mouth water. Sweet Retreat has just hit the Daylesford Airbnb scene, the world’s first sweet-themed Airbnb. What does that mean exactly? Well, besides being packed to the rafters with mouth-watering paraphernalia, Sweet Retreat offers a chance for kids and adults alike to indulge their sweet tooth and experience the lighter side of the Daylesford food scene.
Inside the new Daylesford Airbnb
When you arrive at Sweet Retreat, you’ll immediately be swept up in the light-hearted atmosphere. Wander through the candy pink door, minding the gorgeous vintage cruiser, and step into a world of colour. Pops of colour, neon lights, sweet-themed artwork and lollies galore – you’ll be chomping at the bit.
The two-storey miner’s cottage overlooks a beautiful garden and has four large bedrooms, two bathrooms and extensive indoor and outdoor living spaces. The bedrooms are all themed and totally unique. Some have pink ball pits, others have cherry-scented wallpaper and one is decorated with giant Iced Vovos.
Sweet Retreat was designed by Sugar Republic, Australia’s immersive candy museum. Every room is decorated in Sugar Republic’s signature style, with candy-themed art, neon lights and a peachy colour palette that makes the most of the soft light that fills the home throughout the day.
Book your stay at the sweetest little Daylesford Airbnb here.
More unique Daylesford accommodation
Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges have a bounty of accommodation options, including plenty of gorgeous Airbnbs, boutique hotels and luxury abodes.
For a luxurious yet homey Daylesford Airbnb stay, check out this converted barn. Calling it a “converted barn” is really underselling it… This gorgeous holiday rental is perfect for a romantic escape. It’s decked out with gorgeous plants, Vogue-style decor and bright open spaces that become drenched in light during the middle part of the day.
For a boutique hotel stay, The Dudley is a lovely choice. Just 5-minute’s drive from the centre of town, this country-style retreat offers all the comforts of home, surrounded by manicured gardens. In winter, the cosy lounge area is warmed by a roaring fire and offers the perfect end-of-day spot for a glass of local wine or whisky.
Perhaps the most famous accommodation offering in the area, Lake House lies on the shores of Daylesford Lake and presents a selection of beautifully-appointed rooms, suites and villas to transport guests to a world of relaxation and luxury. Private infinity pools, deep free-standing baths and a bubbling mineral spring right on the doorstep – all your troubles will simply float away. While you’re there, don’t forget to stop in for lunch at the renowned Lake House restaurant, pamper yourself at the day spa or get hands on at the cooking school.
Still looking for the perfect place to stay? Read our full Daylesford accommodation story here.
Things to do in Daylesford
Daylesford and its neighbouring villages have plenty to fill your days. Simply wandering around the streets, lined with boutiques, cafes and bakeries, will help you walk off the sweet treats you’ve been indulging in. A must-see is the stunning Convent Galley, overlooking the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens. Once a private 19th-century mansion, it is now used as a gallery space with a cafe, store and small museum.
For a relaxing afternoon, head over to Hepburn Springs to soak in the famous mineral springs. The Hepburn Bathhouse has stood the test of time. First built in the late 1800s, today it has been transformed into a state of the art spa facility. You’ll find a steam room, hammer and plenty of room to let your worries float away. Nearby, at the Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve, you can try a slightly less relaxing but equally restorative plunge into the natural spring water.
Once you’ve sampled the local fare, you might want to get your legs moving on a walk around Daylesford Lake. It will take around 45 minutes to make your way around the lake, but there’s plenty of reasons to stop for a photo break. The jetty provides a lovely spot to dangle your feet and take a break. Or, take to the water in a paddle boat instead.
You’ll find even more inspiration for your Daylesford getaway here.
Already crossed Daylesford off your list? Why not visit one of these stunning regional Victorian towns next?
Healesville or Hipsterville? Meet Victoria’s trendiest country town
Castlemaine, Victoria: where to eat, drink and sleep
Beautiful Beechworth: top hotels and restaurants in Victoria’s High Country
